September Reflection

Reflection is an important part of life and we are thrilled to include you in this vital practice. Each month, we will share what we did, what we’ve learned, where we saw God, and what we hope for next month. We do this to keep you informed, but we also hope it encourages you in your own season of life.

This month was full of joyful interactions and growing pains (on Meg’s part—fundraising is new to me!). We readjusted our September fundraising goal (from 20% to 30%) and hit the ground running, primarily connecting with friends and family from our hometowns in Yakima and Gig Harbor/Tacoma (picture above from a Covid-friendly gathering hosted by Chase's Young Life leaders Bill & Jody).

As of September 30th, we have reached 26% of our total fundraising budget with the generosity of 50 supporters! We celebrate that! We look forward now to October and our next goal of 50% (not going to lie, typing that gave me (Meg) a slight panic).

From Meg:

What I’ve learned: Currently, God is using the image of wind in a sail to help me discern between striving energy (that comes from my own need to produce/achieve/succeed) and holy perseverance. Sometimes, we must press on; we’ve been given a challenging task (both in moving across the world and in fundraising) and I can’t hide from the reality that it is taxing, that it requires me to push through discomfort and climb the mountain. But when God is the wind in our sails, I can adjust the lines and my direction to catch it and let that divine energy propel me forward.

Where I saw God: I see God in the sacred space of listening. When people are willing to hear our story, to engage it, to receive it with enthusiasm, they are truly practicing hospitality. I see and feel God in their warmth, smiles, and willingness to support us. It reminds me that we didn’t make this up, that God is with us and before us.

What I hope for next month: Honestly, I feel daunted by the task still before us but am clinging to excitement. I hope for presence, energy, and capacity to keep showing up to the next step.

From Chase:

What have I've learned: I have learned a lot about the process of fundraising. Every time we sit down with people it is an opportunity to learn! I love hearing stories of Europe, Germany, Munich, and international schools! It is always a rich time to learn and delight in other people’s experience. I’ve also gotten to learn more about how I like to communicate our calling. I ask myself, “How can I clarify all this information? What do these people really need to know and what is an unnecessary tangent? These have been good questions for me to reflect on.

Where did I see God: The ministry of fundraising can be uncomfortable. Our culture doesn’t love it when we put ourselves in situations where we have to be dependent on others. This requires us to trust in God; even though what we are doing is counter-cultural, we are right where we are supposed to be. He has given us peace to rest in that.

What do I hope for next month: Continue to push forward! We have some momentum heading into this month and we are excited to connect with even more people!