Sorry, its been too long…

[Journal Entry: 8.11.07]

Sometimes I try to grasp onto any semblance of control in my world around me. This time, there is nothing to cling to; to rely on. I feel the most out of control that I have ever been. Why can’t I live my life this way? Why can’t I see that this is what I have been praying for all along? Why do I have fear in the midst of it?

John 6:16-21 tells of a time when the disciples were cruising in a boat and a storm came upon them. They were terrified, thinking that it was the end for them. All of the sudden they see Jesus, their redeemer walking on the water. He gets within range and says, “Don’t be afraid, the ‘I AM’ is here.” – The absolute most comforting phrase I could ever imagine.

This may seem like a difficult time in my life and in the lives of some of those around me. The waves are daunting and threaten to wreak havoc on our lives. I doubt whether or not that I can stand and am terrified. BUT, the ‘I AM’ is here. The power that raised Christ from the dead is within me. He calms the waves of doubt and discouragement within me and gives my boat a firm place to land.

Even though it has been a little bit of a difficult time in some respects it has been an incredibly fulfilling time in others. I am sure this is not a new scenario to me, but this is one of the first times that i have identified it in my own life…

God has been doing some amazing things and has been putting some pretty amazing people in my life along the road. Each time something works together, I am reassured that this is what the Lord has been calling me to do and I am confident in his plans.

Overall, people have been receptive to the work that the orphanages are doing in Ethiopia and Uganda, and it is amazing to see how God has been implanting his heart into the lives of others as they look into the faces and eyes those that He loves.

Things have also been moving with PhotogenX as well. I have booked my ticket around the world in faith that God will provide.

I have also been looking into starting a non-profit called NOT ALONE. Not Alone would be a ministry based on advocacy. A group of photographers, artists, and journalists would travel the globe to areas where social justice issues are thick. We would find grass-roots ministries that help with the issues and serve them for a season. At the same time, we would gather information and art as well. From there, we would put together a tour similar to the one in progress but on a larger scale. On this side, there will be another group with skills in business, marketing, and event planning that would set up the shows in various locations.

The goal and mission of Not Alone would be to raise awareness for Social Justice Issues and partner with the grassroots ministries and non-profits to make a change. Kind of like what happened with St. Ameria’s Orphanage in Uganda. Because of a few people took time to visit, we were able to share our experiences with others. Those others were touched, and some even support the orphanage on a monthly basis. We would be the ones to find these places and stand with them, connecting them to others around the world who care and could provide resources.

What are your thoughts?