As I continued on with my week in the Dominican, I felt God question my faith. "If the money were not a problem, if I provided you with all the financial resources you needed, would you be willing to give me that year of your life? Would you be willing to put your career on hold for a year? Would you be willing to live in a culture that is not you own?" My answer as I looked out of the window of a van, driving down a dirt road, leaving the people that I fell in love with in just one short week was "Yes." I knew in that moment that if God truly wanted me there, he would make it clear, and he would provide. There is only one response that I am required to give when God calls me to do something, and that is a simple "Yes."
After my acceptance to the GAP program, about 3 months after I had left the Dominican, I knew it was time to let everyone know of my plans and start fundraising. I sent out letters to some of my family and close friends. I also began to advertise for a spaghetti dinner/ raffle fundraiser. I had a lot of encouraging responses and many people supported me by financially donating. Before the event I had raised roughly $2,000. As the event came closer, I was amazed at the support I received. So many people donated baskets, and every time I turned around there were more, and more! My wonderful cousin, and a few other people made delicious desserts to sell, and my Dad's friend bought all the ingredients to make the sauce. Two weeks before the event, I was trying to estimate how much money I could possibly make if "X" amount of people came. I wanted to make $3,000 because I saw that as a goal that could be attained. One day as I was praying I felt God question my hearts motive. "Have you given this to me? Do you trust me to go above and beyond your expectations? Dream big Meghan, and pray in expectation." That day I realized that money is nothing to God. He is above our financial understanding. He is in control. That was the first time the number $5,000 was laid on my heart.
I treasured this number in my heart and prayed over it for the next two weeks. The day of the event had finally arrived and I was excited and anxious all at the same time. To say that I felt loved throughout those 4 hours in an understatement. There were times where I would literally just stand still and soak it all in. I have heard this saying many times "Wherever you are, be all there." In those moments, I was all there. I wasn't just there, but I was there with a heart that overflowed with pure thankfulness.
At the end of the event, I sat down, began to count the money and open up the donation envelopes. I was amazed at peoples generosity. At one point I began to cry, because it was unbelievable to see how many people were supporting me on this God ordained journey. When I had finished counting, the total amount raised was $4,800. Now, do not get me wrong, I was THANKFUL, but to say that there wasn't a little disappointment in my heart would be a lie. "God, you told my $5,000 and we were so close. But, you will provide. I know you will provide." This thought replayed over, and over again in the short 5 minute drive home from the dinner. It wasn't until we unloaded the car that it hit me. "The envelope!" One of my wonderful friends, gave me an envelope while we were setting up earlier that morning and told me to put it in a safe place, and open it later. I quickly got the envelope out of the bag, and before I could even open it, tears began to fall. I knew in my heart that God was providing! Even though common sense would say, "There is no way a college aged girl would be able to give $200." I serve a God that put the galaxies into motion. I opened the envelope and had to sit down because I was physically unable to stand. 300 Dollars and a beautiful card from a friend who lives each day obeying Gods call on her life. $5,100 total. God exceeded my expectation. He gave me a dream and he showed up, because that is what he does. He always shows up!
I have gotten more generous donations since then and currently owe $140 to the organization and will hopefully raise some more money for some of my travel expenses. If you would like to donate you can do so online http://www.scoreintl.org/donate/gap-student/. If you do not feel comfortable with an online transaction, you can contact me for more information.
I am blessed beyond measured. I am excited to see how God provides the rest of the money, and then how He provides for me in many different ways when I get to the Dominican on August 25th. I read this yesterday in a card that was given
to me for my High School graduation, I hope that it encourages you as it has me.
"Some people are committed to the challenge to walk within His will and do their part- They're sure to make a difference in the world, because there's such a difference in their heart."
For His Glory!
-Meghan
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