I feel like I’ve been on this journey for a long time now and things are actually coming into place. After I was asked to return to Swaziland as staff, I was planning on being in school for a semester then finish up online, returning to Swazi in February 2010. Unfortunately, one of my classes I need in order to graduate is only offered in the class so I am in Dallas for another semester. I feel like there is a lot happening this semester (forgive me for speaking in semesters, but that’s how my life usually happens) and over the next few months. On top of school, one of my classes is an internship at a location still to be determined and I am trying to mentally prepare for my last remaining months in Texas.
My goal is to be back in Swaziland by the beginning of June, but in order for this to happen, I have to have 100% of my support either pledged or in my account. Currently I am right at 30%. I haven’t been as diligent in my support raising for various reasons. This should not be an excuse, but things have been difficult these past few months. The Lord has provided everything I have needed, but each month is another month He asks me, “Will you still trust me? Do you believe that I am who I say I am?” It’s been 5 months since I’ve been back in America. These have been some very difficult months, being jobless, trying to pay for school, being in school, treating my African ailments I returned with as well as adjusting to America. Support raising has been on my mind, but not at the forefront. I have been talking about returning to Swaziland for so long and before I know it, June will be here. Some of you are already supporting me financially. To the rest of you, my prayers are that you will seek the Lord for where He might have you in this ministry partnership with me. I can’t do this alone. I am not only asking for financial support, but I am asking for your prayers.
Swaziland is a difficult place to minister in because of the death and destruction that is all around. But in the midst of the death, God is breathing Life. In the middle of the destruction He is bringing Restoration. When I look into the eyes of the children I see His hope. I see a group of people that are hurting and recognize that the Lord is their provider, their healer and their comforter. My heart is in Swaziland. My heart has been in Swaziland long before I had ever stepped foot there. I know that the Lord has great things planned for this country and these people. They have been lost and forgotten by man, but the Lord knows each of them by name and He has called me to help speak up for those without a voice, and to make others aware of the forgotten.
If you are interested in supporting me financially, click on the Support Me link to the left and in the staff name put my name: Isabel Maldonado. If you are interested in supporting me prayerfully, please send me an email letting me know. While one time donations are greatly appreciated, I am in need of monthly supporters. I love you all and I am praying for you!
hey girl! i haven’t talked to you in forever! i didnt realize you were heading back to Swazi. What exactly are you going to be doing? I know there’s a ton of different areas we have AIM people over there so I was just curious. I hope all is well with you. I look forward to hearing from you!