Tara Stephenson rockin it with SQUAD N! - I just simply feel FREE to be.

PICTURE PHILIPPINES. In one day.

Thu, 4 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Dumaguete, Philippines March 2010 FEEL HOPE

Working with: Internationl Care Ministry (ICM)

Location: Dumaguete, Philippines for the month of March.

Focus: Eliminating poverty through simply thinking of the next generation.

www.caremin.com

They start with worms. By simply supplying worms, they produce a fertilizer that will help the poor to plant food that will grow. The worms will also increase providing another souces of income.

HOPE HAS ARRIVED.

ICM teams up with a local church. That church will provide worms and seeds to certain families. ICM staff will visit monthly and teach on Values, Health, and Livelihood (VHL) (a program called TRANSFORM). They also provide food in the meantime to each family apart of the Transform program. This program last around 6 months. It is one of many ICM are involed with.

Once the family starts to produce fertilizer, the seed is planted. Many of the poor in Philippines do not have space to plant. Here is one example of how they maximize their space. This corner is their "garden."

IT IS NOT JUST WORDS BUT ACTIONS. MEET THEM WHERE THEY ARE.

Many of these families might only make $80 a month. If that. This organization understands generations. They see the need now while providing a way the need can be met in generations to come. They do not force religion but LOVE first. Through their love, the poor come to see a God that is the author of provision and hope. This alone will set so many free from poverty and free in Christ. Practical yet powerfully supernatural. This is our God.

FOR NEW CREATION.

Many families are able to grow tomatoes, egg plant, chilis, green beans etc. The seeds reproduce themselves. The worms reproduce themselves. It is an amazing cycle that is past on for a better future, income, and LIFE.

They are also involved with housing projects, preschools, tutoring mothers, orphanages etc.

They use the bottom of plastic coke bottle as a pot. It cuts down on ground space by hanging them. This way, more food is available to sell and eat.

CREATIVITY: DISARMING POVERTY

Why shall the poor remain poor? Those with resources and education have a responsibility. It is not for them to only use from themself but to think Kingdom minded. We are yet born into a certain situation by grace. In that portion of grace we must respond. It is by the Spirit of the Lord that we are annointed to bring the good news to the poor. Simple to us, life saving to them. Money, food, technology, creativity. Generations can be changed and people can finally see what it might look like to FEEL HOPE. The heartbeat of God is within us all.

Philippines: Hit the ground sprinting.

Sun, 21 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

It was suppose to be Malaysia after Australia...but God has something different. A completely different nation.

Darwin, Australia------------Singapore------------Malaysia---------------Manila, Philippines.

I am on the third leg. We started at 3:30 PM on the 21st and will end at 3:00PM on the 22nd.

It is currently 4 PM in Malaysia. I can't go to sleep. I am on my 4th wind. The airport lights all around me are tricking me into thinking it is time to rise and shine. I pray for the shine part:) Another travel day on the World Race. Planes are the Taj Mahal compared to a bus with 40 people on a pot hole road in Africa. SO this is a glorious travel day.

DEBRIEF:

This will be the second debrief for Robby and I. The first one was right right at the beginning in New Zealand called "launch". Basically the two of us leaders and David and Bernadette Fredriksz (the wise mom and dad of the squad) seek the Lord as to the direction of the debrief. We meet with each team (9 teams for a total of 57 people), preach, teach, love, worship, hang out one-on-one....it is quite full. Almost evey hour of the day planned. It is a powerful time. A time when people are completely challenged, refreshed, renewed, called out, LOVED, encouraged and set free. Three days...God knows how to do a lot in 3 days.

Pray for my squad...oh that they will come to see themselves as God sees them. Pray for His Spirit to guide us all and teach us. Pray for our coaches (the Fredriksz) with MIGHTY words of wisdom and knowledge. Pray for Robby and I to prophecy WITH boldness. Holing nothing back. To annoint our words when we teach. Above pic: THE DREAM TEAM!

I can't wait to tell you more about this time....but debrief is HUGE and I NEED YOUR PRAYERS. oh and please pray for some refreshment over us too. I pray that God's love will seep thicker into your hearts. That is where all things come together. Love to you.

I am UNDIGNIFIED and TRIBAL

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The rains dropped down. The oceans crashed out from the clouds. It was the second night at the Call 2 All Conference in Tauranga, New Zealand. All 2,000 of us dashed into the gymnasium in expectation for the Lords presence.

The word of the Lord was upon our lips. Our group of 25 were ready to experience God in a deep way and speak, if necessary. He wanted to get intimate with EVERYONE. The night before was an experience from months and months of prep and prayer. The Tauranga leadership wanted to host this conference to not just send a shock wave throughout New Zealand but to send a wave to the rest of the world. It was focused to rally this generation to be sent out and to listen to where God is saying GO! It was all about empowerment. To accompany the event were many speakers, the Maori tribe, over 40 nations and the worlds largest map.

SO there I was in the gym. Ready. God had spoken to me the night before about becoming more and more undignified for Him. He said that it was one of the keys for this generation to get over the people pleasing and worrying what others thought. Even what we thought about ourselves. It was David that said I will become even more humiliated in my own eyes. This man was part of the Maori tribe at the conference.

Undignified I became. Danced and danced. For Himand not for others. People were being set free in their attempts to break the resistance that so holds them back from freedom. It was becoming undignified that it broke my own yoke. There were some spectators but God is teaching me that the multitudes are crying out for someone to be free so they can feel free to be free. They are crying out for someone to say something so they wont remain in their silence any longer. God has called me to dance and to speak. Even in silence and stillness I hear Him directing me.

I am not dictated by feeling. Even when they prayed for the FIRE of God to come down over that place, I didnt FEEL fire but I chose not to stand paralyzed wondering why. I chose to be used knowing God wanted me to experience Him in another way. So I moved all night. Like a chess piece. Undignified and without relent knowing that I am yet an instrument of God. A chess piece on the move with a mission. Not waiting for feeling to fill me up but believe and speakeven despite all clarity. It was that night that God used me to help break addictions from people, pray for eyes to be healed, bless generations through a pastor and his wife and talk to a girl that was so lost in her understanding of God.

God is so gracious. I am willing. There are NO walls around my God. I will prophecy. I will love. And I will hope for His Kingdom culture everywhere. For the Kingdom of God is AT HAND. We have a King now.

Thank you for your prayers. I need them.

Dear DR. Psychologist

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Dear DR. Psychologist,

Amazing that you have be enlightened to the of study people. Amazing that you know why people act the way they do. Just by the way they act or respond, you may even know the root of their actions. For it really has helped others to come to conclusion why they do what they do. It helps you know people better as well as help them if needed. That is what you desire: to help people come to a place of wholeness. There are definitely patterns that can be identified that lead to conclusions that leads to a solution. At the end of the day, you have insight not many haveand that can be used as a gift or just another subject to study. It is quite powerful how it is used. It can be relatable or distant. It can bring healing or a temporary fix. Either way, you know it is something to not play with or treat as a game or an experiment. For these are people. Uniquely created by God to bring about HIS PURPOSE.

I realized something recently about people, actually myself. I never was taught this in psychology class or the million personality test I have taken ( I am an ENFP if you wonder). It was the fact that I am completely accepted right where I amon this place in my journey. I have heard of the concept before, but have been taught to identify my problem and then get rid of it. There is truth to binding up the mess, but this time I just stepped into light. I am completely accepted nownot totally understand every part of God, still with questions and wonder, with so much hope, love and eagerness to grow. It is in this place I don t look around and compare or even look to my past to find the answer. I just stepped into this refulgent light and all falls off. I believe that I accepted and I find my acceptance with the words spoken over me from my LORD. I learned this
last year on my first race but it seems to effect the majority of the body. In the light, I find myself the way the Lord finds me. I dont have to default to anything. I can be in many circumstances and feel comfortable in my skin. The way HE made me. Whether I am just still or dancing up a storm, and am one with Him. I AM ONE! I didnt have to focus on my issue, but Christ.

So doctor, allow me to encourage you. You might not have the answer. Do we really have people all figured out? You have helped so many. Continue to see each person as God does and not sometimes a scale to measure. God does give you resources to help you understand people better but at the end of the day there is no formula or cookie cutter way to lead people into wholeness and righteousness. The Lord will take care of that. Healing will come. You are to help. I pray that God will give you His eyes that you might see the treasure in all things. And think of them for the treasure they are. I believe through His eyes you will walk into a new enlightenment. Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is freedom. I thank God for you. Thank you for caring and helping setting the captives FREE. I walk with you.

Love someone who just loves OUR CREATOR and His creation,

Tara

Video-Kingdom

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Squad N recently had a video competition.

Theme: The Kingdom of God is like.....

Out of 9 teams TEAM Ginosko WINS!

Watch this beautiful video that will inspire all who desires to BE THE KINGDOM OF GOD.

Love to you all. More to come about New Zealand.

NEW ZEALAND UPDATE!

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

I am on my 13th day in New Zealand. I am currently in Tauranga. A city quite beautiful. We are working with International House of Prayer, Youth With a Mission, and a variety of churches and bible colleges to bring about a huge conference that will be taking place next week.

First conference is called JUBILEE: Celebrating 50 years of YWAM

Second conference is called Call2All: This is designed to ignite the fire in people to go to the nations. We are currently setting up the worlds largest map imported from China. It takes up over two basketball courts! This is expected to be a start of a movement (a wave) to go to the rest of the world. Big time for NZ Christians.

The conferences start this Sunday until next Friday.

Pray:

That people would come to a NEW NEW awareness of Gods purpose.

That dreams and visions would just come to people about His Kingdom.

People would be called specifically and stop questioning.

That this would start something like a revival in New Zealand.

Pray for the 4 teams for the World Race would experience God like they never have and REVELATION WOULD COME OVER US ALL! Revelation about the future the now and how God wants to use us.

Gods supernatural would rain down. I feel healings and amazing things are going to happen

Pray big prayers here and right now in your life. GOD IS ALIVE AND WITH US NOW! Same spirit that raised God from the dead is in us. This is what we get the chance to worship.

LOVE YOU ALL and thank you thank you for your prayers and support. I am so grateful beyond grateful for you.

Auckland: Don't forget your passport!

Fri, 1 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Don't forget your Passport.

Today I walk to Terminal 2 at LAX to meet the team leaders from the January Squad I will be co leading with Robby Riggs (Jan 08 World Racer). We will be leading a squad of 57 made up of 9 small teams. Each team has a leader.

Launch date: January 3^rd

Location: Auckland, New Zealand (North Island)

Time: When we wake up.

What to bring: 1 backpack, 1 day pack, 1 purse, and my passport.

What to expect: training for leaders, logistics, finances-adventure day, team building, teaching, crazy worship, reality check of what we are doing, excitement, overjoyed.

This marks the beginning of the squads 11 month journey I had the opportunity to embark in July 08. I am so blessed to be in this position and already feel the responsibility and eagerness to walk into this calling. God has equipped me for what He has called me to do.

Pray for:

Safe travels

Preparation for the squad as they leave their families and venture out on this pilgrimage.

For Robby and I to walk in the boldness God has called us to.

Protection-spiritual armor all around.

Open hearts and a transforming launch

The other staff members at launch as we prepare to go to the nations.

January 9^th. We head to our ministries. We dive in and get to have the opportunity to serve God and build His Kingdom to every tongue, tribe and nation. Thank you so much for your prayers and support during this journey. More to come!!!!!

If I find Frodo and the ring from Lord of the Rings, I will let you know. I think he might still have it.

How I wish for the exit row!

Thu, 31 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I stare through a rectangle window down upon America, which seems to be mostly covered in snow. I am sitting in the middle row with my powdered creamer coffee surrounded by two drooling sleepers. The sun is quickly setting and for many, it will be a cold American winter night.

Flying gives me time. It is a time with not many distractions. I sat here thinking about perspective. To many on the ground I am yet a bird in the sky... when look down I see a big crossword puzzle with blobs of water. But then I imagine in my head a zoom button. I narrow in on a city then a neighborhood. Then one block. Then one house. And there I am. It almost feel like I am with scrooge and the Ghost of Christmas present. I see people enjoying this season. Loving each other.

And I am reminded of Emmanuel. God with us.

I quickly zoom back from the house. I see the block and then the neighborhood and now back up in my little seat where my legs usually press against the magazines in front of me. And right now in this present, Emmanuel is with me.

I was walking through Chicago airport. I had this smile on my face. Just watching people and seeing the diversity, hustle and bustle, laughter, people darting by me like the airport scene in "Home Alone." I saw God. I felt Him. He was right with me. But not just me. He was everywhere.

Just like the wind. You see the effects and motion. You feel it.

I will soon land and find myself looking up to the clouds and my perspective changes yet Emmanuel doesn't. Where I am, there He is. How cool is our God that He wanted to be with us so bad, he limited himself in human form. The most anticipated birth ever. And since that birth He has never left. I thank God for His Spirit.

Not only is he with us in Christmas present, but past and future. When I look forward I see Him. When I look back I see Him. He covers it all...there is no place our God hasn't gone. Christ was in existence before the foundations of the earth. Fulfilled all prophecy and now we get to live in the new covenant wherever we are.

I pray that you sense Him where you are now reading this. He is with you right now. Right where you are. He wants to love you more. Wants to show you a hope for the future and the blood that has covered our past. And now I will sip the rest of my coffee and if you look up I might just waving or at least flying. Lets pray to see angles this year. Love to you and Merry Christmas and Happy NEW NEW YEAR! It is NEW!

I will not live January 2nd.

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This is a recent email I wrote to my family

and friends. God has put a big call upon my

life. Thanks for reading!

Dear Family and Friends, ( I know this is a little bit of a longer update, but I would love for you to hear my heart and see where God is leading me next...)

From Arkansas to Central America, Southeast Asia, Africa, Eastern Europe and now Spain! I will graduate from Generation 42 Leadership Academy in two weeks! ( www.g42leadershipacademy.org) I have now been here since June and know my purpose.

I have been away from America for a year and a half. First the World Race www.theworldrace.org for 11 months and now G42 Leadership Academy. I have seen over 20 different cultures and am in awe of GOD. A simple discovery yet.... My heart has expanded and I find myself believing in the simple truths that I have always known and have discovered. Once I started to truly believe who God says He is and who He says that I am, a new authority came, dreams and visions were revealed deeper and the mystery of God opened up a new understanding of His PURPOSE with us.

I recently had a woman prophecy into my life. She was right on. I went forward after a service last Sunday. The message that day was about expanding vision. I know God has been expanding my way of thinking for a long time now. Ever since the Race started in July 2008, I started to see the overwhelming about of LOVE God has for people. I obviously saw needs everywhere and questioned what I was to do. He expanded my capacity to love, to envision HOPE, and to freely be who He created me to be. It is freedom at its finest. I found His Spirit. I found it within me. This changes everything. When the woman started to prophecy, she saw a vision of a boat leaving a harbor. Going to the open sea. God was my rudder. I didn't have my hands on the wheel because I knew I could trust God to guide the boat.

She said many times we wait in the harbor until God has given us the full picture. I knew that I must move. That God had given me key pieces and it was time that I leave the harbor. I have been moving for a while but still hoping for the full picture or understanding of where I am heading fully. I have some clarity, but God is calling me to the open sea before it is all revealed. He can do so much more out there. So I am leaving the Harbor and PLUNGING into my purpose. I am leading the World Race January squad! I leave January 1st to meet my team of 60 where we start in Auckland, New Zealand . We are partnering with God and His people all over the world to bring His Kingdom where it doesn't exist.

This is not just another program but my commitment to the long term call God has placed in my heart. I want to see people come ALIVE. To live the life they are designed for. To speak truth over the lies and raise up leaders to lead generations into their purpose, their inheritance. To see a CHURCH OF PEOPLE ALIVE! I will be leading 60 other individuals with one of my good friends Robby Riggs http://robbyriggs.theworldrace.org . My commitment is for 11 months which includes me walking with them four to five months and then going back out to two debriefs. My squad will start in January and end in November. I am going to be raising up leaders within the squad to take over the squad in the fourth month. I am also excited to see God possibly have me back in Spain for sometime to serve in the coming future.

I have not been walking alone in this process. You have been a support to me. Whether through prayers, encouragement, financially---I CAN'T THANK YOU ENOUGH. When that lady prophecied over me, the lady next to me said that she saw a cruise ship. That I was not alone. There were so many people. I know that I am not in this alone. The sea also symbolizes people. It is people that His Kingdom is made of. Will you pray about partnering with me? I need prayer. I know much has been given to me, and that means much is required. I NEED PRAYER. INTERCESSION. There are 60 others that need me to be full of the Spirit everyday. Ready to go! I also NEED HELP FINANCIALLY. I am raising $10,000. I need half of that by the 1st of the year. Please pray about becoming a one time or monthly donor. You can support me at http://tarastephenson.theworldrace.org and click on "Support me for Spain and WR". All donations are tax-deductible.

I trust God. I trust that He has equipped me and called me. I don't have all the resources but I AM believing for them. I am hitting the open sea and I know God is directing me. I have got wind in my sails and ready to dive into the promise. Thank you for your support and trust that God is speaking to you about your purpose and stirring in you crazy passions and dreams for His Kingdom. I prophecy your dreams to come to pass in fullness! Email me with any questions.

Pace y amor
Tara
more than a conqueror

LIFE and LIFE of Dudu.

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A Tribute to DU DU:

It was February 2009. I am stationed out in a little country in Africa called Swaziland. Life expectancy is currently age 31. Due to the AIDS epidemic, Swaziland is made up of mostly grandmothers (called Go Go's) and orphaned children.

I knew that I would fall in love with this culture. Despite the conditions they are born into, JOY and strength remains. It is truly FROM THE LORD.

One person that impacted me was a woman named Du Du, age 26. She suffered from TB and AIDS and was in very bad health conditions. She also had a little baby named Snethemb born with TB.

Two weeks ago Du Du past away. I got the news and didn't know quite how to process. Over the last couple of weeks, memories have popped up in my mind. I only had a few with her, but one stood out the most.

I spent the day with her in the hospital with my two good friends Krystle and Jessi. It was a good day for Du Du. She could walk a little and drink her favorite banana smoothie. My friend Krystle had brought her a dress that we helped her slip on over her gown.

She GLOWED!

Here is a woman two years older that I am, SUFFERING, yet had one of the most peaceful spirits. The three of us sang to her while she laid there. She kept motioning for more. She loved the sound of worship. She has a strength to hold on to life for the sake of her baby and knew that smiling was one of the only ways to enjoy the moment. She did not worry for herself but for her child.

She loved her baby.

And now Du Du is with our Father.

PRAY for the family of Du Du. Pray for her baby and his health. And pray for Swaziland: that the JOY of the LORD would consume them. Pray for the AIDS epidemic and that all could be educated on this issue to help prevent it spreading. Du Du is a face that won't be forgotten. She has a spirit that signifies strength. Her legacy lives on in the life that has been replicated through her. Pray this baby, now orphaned, would grow to be the very thing that brings the sound of HOPE to a nation that is in need of that HOPE. He has a FATHER that will never let him go.

We were dead poets. Carpe Diem.

Sat, 7 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When is there a time to not live extraordinary?

It was in the movie Dead Poets Society that John Keating, an inspirational professor (played by Robin Williams) said to his class of young "hungry for life" boys:

[talking about people in old awards ceremony photographs] They're not that different from you, are they? Same haircuts. Full of hormones, just like you. Invincible, just like you feel. The world is their oyster. They believe they're destined for great things, just like many of you. Their eyes are full of hope, just like you. Did they wait until it was too late to make from their lives even one iota of what they were capable? Because, you see gentlemen, these boys are now fertilizing daffodils. But if you listen real close, you can hear them whisper their legacy to you. Go on, lean in. [the students lean in] Listen, you hear it? [whispers in a raspy voice] Carpe - hear it? - Carpe, carpe diem, seize the day boys, make your lives extraordinary.

I can remember many times I was in a similar scene. The kind of scene you "cheers" to the spirit of inspiration. I have sat through hundreds of half time speeches where the coaches truly rattle your spirit to play with EVERYTHING youve got "All we need is twenty minutes." Or the time when I heard my Dad speak at my uncles funeral and displayed one of the most inspirational eulogies. I do have to admit, I cried once after a NIKE commercial. It was that song "Bitter Sweet Symphony." There's even been times where I have heard someone's LIFE story and just felt that tug to AWAKEN that part in me that screams and imagines "EXTRAORDINARY" words and dreams.

Whether it be some song, movie, memory, speech, book or even pictures...there is something that can trigger a longing to LIVE extraordinary. It doesn't go away. The scary thing is that is can be suppressed. But that doesn't mean it goes away. IT is time to rediscover. Open that room in our hearts. Clean up and dust some things off if needed and discover what it is that makes us individually extraordinary.

Because where ever we are, there is someone who is waiting for us to show up living full. Someone needs us full. Right where we are. No need to go somewhere far to see that people need extraordinary living in extraordinary creations. No need to go anywhere to see people not living fully ALIVE. It can be the person you sit next to at work or even ourselves. I say it is time that we LIVE EXTRAORDINARY. We may not know how. All we have to do is ask the SPIRIT within us. He is QUITE EXTRAORDINARY and is there very thing that revived us when we living just ordinary. This time is now, Carpe Diem. We need each other to live full. God desires that we live Full of Him. At the very least, extraordinary. "An ordinary day lived extraordinary has enternal purpose," Charles Stock (pastor at Life Center Church Harrisburg, PA-one of our guest teachers).

INDULGENCE...the new covenant.

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Living your life to the FULLEST is not just an idea or a naive comment but a reality.

I am trying to find words so I will just type out what I wrote to God yesterday: Here is some of my heart.

10.15.09

Lord I know that the abundance comes from feasting in you. SO bring the jubilee. People have consumed so much of the wrong food. They are hungry and have been found in false satisfaction for years. I am HUNGRY, age 24, and by your grace am feasting in pure satisfaction that last for an eternity. Those with false satisfaction sustains but DOES NOT bring life. I desire they feast at the Tree of Life.

New Life has come upon me today. New freedom that breaks the slavery so that I can be fully yours--full of you--in abundance--to give away.--living in this freedom, authority, wisdom, with much discernment and revelation. Ask, seek, knock-- Lord I will see the utter amazement of the knowledge of the glory of you covering the earth as the waters cover the sea (Hab. 2:14)

(pic taken in Durban, South Africa.)

As I come to know you, may your character truly remain in my soul, spirit, mind, body and heart. I pray for refreshment as I read your WORD to see it in a new enlightenment that only points to you. Glory to you. Your wonderful personality. Honor. Newness. Deeper anointing that breaks the yoke. Integrity. I want to live in your presence no matter where I am. Fully Alivefully myself. No need to please man but you. Come to that place where I wake up and know and believe I AM a beloved daughter (period).

I believe that the supernatural meets the natural and leads people to the fullness of you. Not existing but LIFE here on earth. Trusting you more, during all circumstances with no fear but of power, love and a sound mind. Could heaven possibly be coming here? Your Kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven.

I want to consider others better than myself, serve and look back and see thousands following, even nations, because Christ in me, the hope of Glory.

Protect me Oh Lord. This is just the beginning. Your hedge of protection around me. Only your will in my life. The Abundant Will, your blessing following me all the days of my life. Wisdom My LORD. I ask because I know you freely give.

Thank you so much. Thank you. More FIRE...Spirit so much more. Have I only tasted? Oh may I feast even more in your presence at your table that you prepare. I will never leave your table. Covenant Spirit is upon me.

Help me, equip me, for the seasons to come...Isa 61. So much to say but you alone are worthy. Take my life and ring out every last drop and fill it with the Christ in ME, soaking up the living waters...SO I can give even more LIFE to those who are thirty. May I come to a place where I just INDULGE in your presence. CHEERS to the New Covenant....the covenant of indulgence. More than conquerors.

You are the pizza.

Wed, 7 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I am now home in Spain back from a lovely visit to Moldova...went to a prophetic conference with the World Race in Romania...visited some people in Hungry but wanted to share a blog my friend Steph Fisk (pictured in bottom right) wrote. This was our visit in Romania with a Gypsy family that we served with in April of this year. Oh the Joy of seeing new friends and starting massive food fights. ( more pics below)

Two weeks ago, while in Romania, my travel companions (Dre and Tara) and I made it back to Ville Tecii - a tiny, gypsy village that we lived in last spring. When we were there previously, some of the men were building an outdoor pizza oven. This time we capitalized on that incredible oven and baked around 50 personal pan pizza's - sausage, bacon, ham, cheese, onion, pepper, mushrooms - all topped with ketchup or gypsy sauce. No tomato sauce here.

I have eaten a lot of amazing pizza all over the world, but I dare say that this takes top honors. My belly was beyond satisfied. When I didn't think that I could possibly eat any more - cinnamon, nutella, and blueberry jam was smeared on top of the remaining dough to create scrumptious dessert pizzas!

Then, the first fist of flour was thrown...

...then the first BOWL of flour was released...

...hand-fulls of nutella, butter and blueberry jam added an artistic touch...

...followed by buckets full of water and eggs smashed in the hair...

...We soon BECAME the pizza...

No life-changing message here, but I can testify that food fights need no cross-cultural translation:)

From Tara: I have just started class in Spain and will be blogging more about what God is doing right here in my heart. All I can say for now is, He never stops loving us. Thank you Jesus. Miss you all and please watch some Razorback football for me.

NEW WEBSITE>

Sun, 27 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Visit the new G42 Leadership Academy website. http://www.g42leadershipacademy.org/

I will be here until December 20th and then return state side until first of the year. Jesus is doing some amazing things. Praying you all feel empowered and free right where you are. Christ in you the hope of glory.

A Vision NEEDS a first step. And it has been revealed.

Sat, 12 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

So I committed to the World Race in November of 2007. I left in July of 2008 to return to the states in May of 2009.

I went home to Arkansas for 2 and 1/2 weeks. I then went across the lake from America to Europe and landed in Malaga, Spain where as you know I have been attending the Generation 42 Leadership Academy ( http://www.g42global.org/leadershipacademy )since June 15th.

G42

So here I am, September of 2009 about to take another leap of faith. It was one that some may have expected but surprised me.

Some of you may have read my last blog entitled "A Written Vision. Have you wrote yours?" It was after writing out much of my dreams to see that God was now drawing me back to my calling.

He asked me, "What have I called you to do?" I knew the answer. I responded "Well, to wake up the sleepers, to see the dead come so alive. To motivate, inspire and raise up people to start to walk in their idenity and their dreams. To be love."

Then He asked me "When do you feel the most alive?" And I imediately answered "When I am leading others."

And that was it. I knew my next step. I knew that I was to get back to my calling and trust that God is fulfiling His desires in me. His dreams and visions in me. I know that He has given me the gift of leadership. I must use that for His glory.

So He lead me to leading the January 2010 race. There it is. The next step. Another step into my inheritance. It is in that setting that there are people who are saying yes to wanting more in life. They are either tired of the way things are, they are feeling called to go to the nations, looking for something more or God just said GO I got something to show you...Either, way they are people who desire to live full. And I desire that the live fully ALIVE. And walk in a freedom that they have never felt. And find deeper depths of our God that they will never let go. And to really love the way Christ has loved me. And to walk into their inheritance, their purpose.

I desire that you would pray about how you would like to partner. I can't do this calling on my own. No way. I need prayer. Lots of it. I need finacial support. Lots of it. And I just need encouragement. I will be writing more in the next month to come. In the mean time, I pray that God will reveal the next step for us. Whatever that may be.

I currently am needing $2,365 for Spain. You can click on Support me on the left-hand side and any money you give through this site or G42 will go towards my time here in Spain.

I am leave tomorrow for Moldova to visit the family I lived with in April and then off to a Prophetic concerence with the World Race in Romania. I won't return until October 2nd. Classes for G42 start up on the 5th.!

SO much love to you all. I pray that you are encouraged by His Spirit and know that you are so loved.

A Written Vision. Have you wrote yours?

Sat, 5 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Here is a paper I wrote for the Leadership Academy about a vision God gave me. Takes 4 mins. to read. Enjoy!

People are easily inspired. People are easily influenced. They are moved by movements.

April 4, 1975, marked an unforgettable day in history with the invention of Microsoft. Founders Bill Gates and Paul Allen would never go hungry again.

October 16, 1923, was the birth of Disney. Walt and Roy Disney produced the current largest media and entertainment conglomerate in the world.

In 220 AD, woodblock printing was developed in China resulting in the start of the history of printing.

After traveling 400 kilometers by foot to Paris, Louis Vuitton made appealing relations with the French aristocracy and found himself designing the world renown luggage wear. It was in 1854 that Louis Vuitton Co. raised to popular existence. It is now one of the most recognizable brands on all continents.

According to the FIFA (International Federation Football Association), the earliest form that exercised the skillful technique of football dated back to 2^nd and 3^rd century BC in China.

FIFA also records that since 2001 240 million people in 200 countries regularly play.

The Christian Church found its beginnings with its famed leader Christ. It was at that time that time shifted and His Church started in Roman Judea 1^st century AD with Himself and 12 others.

People are influenced by movements. Whether it be corporations, electronics, music, fashion, media, books, leaders, religion etc., it is all geared and wired to inspire people. These influences and inspirations lead the way we think and act.

This leads me to wonder about the church. The people.

Are masses of people influenced by Christ's church? The answer is yes. I desire that it is all for the good but honestly there are people that have been mistreated, believe in false precepts, or simply find it "unappealing" to their lifestyle. Those people find themselves not just walking away or even making the decision to not be a part of the church but also from God. There are masses of people who don't know the name of Christ. There are masses of people who do know His name but keep it separate from most of their ways of life. And then there are masses of people who decide to incarnate the very living God as their only life source.

Simply, Christ loves His bride. Although far from perfect, He decided to love and show grace that streams and shatters all sin and brokenness to make it whole and righteous.

People have desires. Good and bad, many are fueled by the need for something more. Simply we were made to be loved, so people desire love. We were made to be free, so people desire freedom. And on the darkest or brightest of days, people desire a hope. Not to hope for something more... but a hope that never fails.

Obviously Christ brings life to people through His love, freedom, and hope. His church is designed to be in unity with Him. A call to greatness unlike any other movement or influence. It is for all generations, tongues, tribes, nations, people groups. It is a movement that lasts and is led by the Shepherd who knows His flock and brings unity among the brethren.

So how does the church, the people/Christ bride, meet the people that are longing for that something more? How does the church not just keep up with time but be the very thing that changes time? How can the church today change the course of history tomorrow?

Let me raise another question.

So why aren't the masses of people in love with the church? After all, it is people. I can make my assumptions but that would only result in me finding an answer that would be questionable. I want a movement. I desire to reach the masses that have a disconnect with "the church." I desire to connect the current church with itself. I desire to see people, his bride, join in unity with one another. Big dreams, yet movements start and influence the world. Starts with one person, one city, one nation, one world.

We, the church, are meant to revolutionize like our roots did. Our early church fathers were radicals and knew the cost as a disciple. They preached truth. Not to lure in the masses but because it was the Truth. They knew their role and "so the churches were strengthened in faith and grew daily in numbers" (Acts 16:5).

For some time, God has placed a new excitement for His church and for those not a part of His Church in me. I ultimately want to reach those who normally don't set foot in a actually church building with those that do. It isn't necessarily going to be at their work or at their home but where people meet to have community. Ray Odenburg, author of The Great Good Place, calls that specific place "The Third Place." The first place is the home and the second is the work environment. Odenburg said "The third place hosts the regular, voluntary, informal and happily anticipated gatherings of individuals beyond the realms of home and work." I say lets have church there. It is there that people fellowship in an environment that has the potential to produce freedom, love and a sense of hope.

We find these "Third Places" all over the world in forms of "cafes, coffee shops, community centers, beauty parlors, general stores, bars, hangouts." It is a place that "anchors community life and fosters broader more creative interaction."

It is in these places that people open up and find a type of relaxation that many don't find anywhere else. God has given me a vision to create an action of church through third place

environments. Church is not a building; it is people. It is not Sunday morning or Wednesday night bible study, but it is who we are.

I want to empower the workers in their gifting to go out and serve through their passions. I want to see people who have been "burned" by the church fall back in love with Christ and His bride. I want to see those who thought they never fit in to a certain mold find freedom to be the very thing that Christ set them free to be. To see a group of different denominations come together and change a nation that is in dire need of help and restoration. To see people inspired to be and do and live in a way that was created. Whether a five year old sees his ability to prophecy or a 62-year-old man comes to faith for the first time. It is in the movement that we still move. It is only powered by His Spirit--the wind that blows and never sits still stirring us up and sending us out to plant His Kingdom everywhere the green meets the blue.

Whether it is through fair trade coffee farmers finding meaningful relationships with their consumer, missionaries reaching out to the AIDS orphaned in the Ukraine or a young teenager finding inspiration through local musician, there is a connection in this place...it brings the LOVE of Christ as the main inspiration and sets the captives free. It is educating the local to think global and as well as reaching out to the neighbors. Through a variety of avenues, this vision can transform a community and a community can transform a nation.

A third place environment can't change the world, but Christ in us the hope of glory can. It is in this place that we can unite and BE the bride of Christ. It is working together and not tearing down. Connecting ministries, churches, people, movements to bring about life, that is, LIFE in action. Love in action. Freedom in action and HOPE to fuel us to fight harder and become the bride that Christ intended.

"Who do you say I am?" Jesus asked. Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." Jesus replied, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by man, but by my Father in heaven. And I tell you that you are Peter (means the rock), and on the rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven."

From the Cambodian rice fields to the Guatemalan hill tribes, God loves people. There are over 6 billion people on planet earth. He has built His church out of His people. Christ is my inspiration and influence. It is His movement of His bride that will unite and grab a hold of its inheritance (people). It is Christ Himself that will unite with His perfect bride. It is His Spirit that has empowered us to be the bride and bring all nations, all tongues, all generations, all people groups to His glory as one.

AWAKEN-VIDEO!

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This video says a lot. As I sit here in Spain, looking forward and realizing reality, I become alive. I know that it is not I that lives but Christ that lives in me. To be awakened. Two of my friends from my race are going around the states to Awaken people.....not just youth....people,----------- to live, come alive and be the will of God.

GOT TO WATCH THIS VIDEO. IT is produced by Katie Rowland (Katie and all the people in this video are from my World Race squad).

Still Got Questions.

Sat, 15 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

God's voice. It can be freeing and it can be frustrating.

God's voice comes in all different tones and through all different avenues. It varies between each person and has a way of penetrating to the core. His voice makes people do things that they would never do when they are in their mind. It sometimes requires faith. It sometimes brings peace. It can ask you to speak things out, to find revelation or bring a song to your heart and others. It is no doubt that God's voice is the most powerful, timeless, indescribable voice ever. He speaks through creation and to our spirit. His voice can not be contained to any imagination. It shakes the heart of his people and puts them into action. It can make music or charge it's enemies. It brings reverent fear and finds it's ways through the messiest, loudest storms to calm them. It is the voice of God.

So why do I sometimes sit in His presence frustrated? His voice changes an atmosphere. It change the course of a persons path or even a nation. I can get confused by my voice and his. I know we have all asked, "Is that you or is that me?" or "I don't hear you God!" or even "Did I really hear you right because if I did I would do it?"

God says " My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me." John 10:27. I don't think the sheep sit there and ask themselves " Was that me that went BAAAA or was that the shepherd calling me?" They know their shepherd's voice and they follow that. They don't turn back; they don't second guess.

I thought I would be over these questions about His voice. I thought I would hear it so distinctly that I would run and leap instead of creep and wonder. It is about faith. His voice brings life in all circumstances. Although I may not understand or comprehend what He might be saying, God's voice is life giving and bringing. He is incarnated in me.

I think He can speak to me in a voice that is familiar...like my own. That is when I sometimes question But His spirit lives in me and I am walking in that. I am not trying to walk in ways that are rebellious. I am walking in the Spirit. He knows the desire of my heart. I long to just sit with Him and listen and talk like I can with a close friend. God is close to me and we do have these types of conversations but until I can get "me" out of the way or my confusion/frustration---it is there I find God as He always is and always will be. There I find His voice and confidence in that. No matter how it sounds or how it is conveyed, my spirit jumps with life. No matter how tough of a word He gives or a simple "I love you" I trust and know.

Meet the Gang of G42.

Sun, 26 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Here is the gang that I live with 24-7. It is just right. Meet the nine of G42.

Robby: Homegrown Texan, finds much joy from eating multi-colored popcorn, is one of the only guys that can pull off a hot pink t-shirt, doesn't mind wearing eye liner for 5 minutes, has a laugh that can seriously bring everyone to tears

Josh B.: seriously thinks he is a ninja, always drinks from a water pitcher, his other personality has the voice of "Old Greg" a scary English man fish, Chuck Norris roundhouse doesn't come close to Josh's arm pit symphony.

Tara B.: The one and only baby mama, passionate about almost everything, has a homegrown remedy for all things under the sun, loves spending time drinking tea and shopping in the grocery store

Michelle: enjoys taking casual morning jogs and sliding (tripping) across the street-we would like to think she slide in for a home run, has the most piercings of anyone here marking in at 13, still thinks her sarong (a Thai towel) can act as a skirt, dress, PJ's and a bed sheet.

Hannah: if still awake around 12 a.m. is probably in the middle of sleepwalking or slurring her thoughts into words with no filter, is likely to miss her mouth and spill water all over her shirt, likes to answer most questions with HUH??

Sean: Wizard on the grill, can make a guesstimate of 500 different dishes with garlic, has almost completed his first pizza oven, occasionally pictures himself dancing like the Maori tribe of New Zealand.

Sarah: personality impersonator (specializes in a variety of northern accents), her personality is funky mixed with a shot of Thai spice. Fastest walker with the shortest legs.

Tara S.: brought a blue and yellow glass bird as the G42 mascot named "ralpherson" (which has been kidnapped since day one and is still in search), enjoys crashing Spanish weddings espcially those with hansom groosmen, can seriously think of a song for most phrases, Sarah's partner in crime for northern accent dialoges.

Nick: from the north and sounds like it, can quote a whole history book and movie at the same time, tends to only listen to "underground" bands and finds any occasion worthy of a cigar to celebrate life.

A Blog to the Reader.

Sat, 11 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

IT is quite obvious that this life with Christ is a journey. Definitely not a destination. The moment I think I have arrived to an understanding is the same moment I realize I have a lot to learn.

I want to talk with you personally: the reader. I want to talk just a little bit about my journey this past year and what means for us now.

Going on the World Race did change my worldview. IT shook me up in places that I never knew existed and it left me trusting in who God truly says He is. IT obviously changed me from the core. My desire was for you to feel connected on this journey. For you to feel alive and empowered. There were many times I pictured some of you there with me. And then there were many times I remembered some wise advice from you that really helped me along the way.

One of my dearest friends Katy Nelson, has been an avid blog reader and encouragement to me. She recently commented on my Toast to MJ post "I am so interested to hear more about what you were saying how the Lord has "wrecked you this year". I can feel your enthusiasm and wisdom, I just want to know more about it! I feel so blah compared to the whirlwind you've been in the past year and a half. Its hard, I guess, as a believer here in the states, where things are "normal" or predictable to understand the mind boggling events that your going through."

As I mentioned, my desire is that all Christ is doing in me and in this world would be able to connect with you in some way. I have prayed a lot about that. Sometime I feel at loss when I write a blog. I can try to describe an event or a place but I know it really is never the same until you are there. But the crazy thing is we all have experienced things in our life that are just sometimes unexplainable.

"but this year has wrecked me"

Here it is. We have all grown up in the United States of America. So I promise, anyone that is removed from that society for a year is going to be wrecked. When I say wrecked, personally I mean that not only has my worldview expanded but I realized a lot about who God is and in turn who I am. So it wrecks you for the glory of God.

More than likely you have not gone on the World Race, but God has "wrecked" you in some way. If not, I pray He does. Many of you have come to these certain points in life that keep you going down the right track. That revive your passion for Christ and ultimately you become more alive to go and build His Kingdom right in your own neighborhood. There are these moments that are priceless when God goes beyond our understanding and we enter into supernatural faith. We take that risk or follow that still small voice inside us.

Many of the choices were the same for me on the World Race as living in the States. Am I going to love this person today? Am I going to choose to serve Christ or my pessimistic outlook right now? Am I going to believe Christ for who He really says He is? And then---Am I going to believe who Christ tells me I really am? You can say that some of those questions came at pretty difficult situations but no matter where you are, you decide.

Honestly there is a nudge or like Paul would say "a groan" within my Spirit. It has always been there. Even before the World Race and Spain, my heart was developing like the heart of God. Many of your hearts have been as well. Your heart aches when you hear the stories of the martyrs and rejoices when you see people coming alive in a certain gifts that have remained dormant for some reason. We were all made in the image of God. The beautiful thing is that we are on different journeys. And that God is expressed so differently in each one of us.

So most of us come for the same society. It tells us our life plans. What we should look like and how much freedom we truly have. We have freedom to choose, but I know from the little 24 years I have lived, we limit ourselves to this unspoken pressure to be something we are not or to follow some safe track. I have always wanted and desired the will of God. I desire that for you. To be right exactly where you need to be.

So as for us who have that groan or nudge that we can't always put into words....I realized that being away from our society for a year has taught me I have a choice. God has put dreams in me and he has put them in you. Sometimes that very nudge is that dream or a longing for something more. While you live among the American ways--sometimes predictable and cookie cutter--we have freedom. Freedom to choose, freedom to follow the will of God. God has equipped us. No matter what the call.

My daily walk with God has changed because the God I knew then was not the God I know now. He is much bigger. No more boxes or walls that keep me from Him. I have a choice to make. Am I going to be filled with His Spirit? Am I going to walk into work today feeling conquered, when in reality we have already won? Am I going to allow Satan's lies to be louder than that of Christ's truths? By going around the world your worldview will change, you will know more of who you are and your very heart will be shaped like Christ----BUT if you don't we still have that decision everyday to wake up and live ALIVE.

Something I have been learning here in Spain is that Paul considered himself already dead--So now we can Live in CHRIST. As Andrew Shearman, my teacher and friend, would put it "You don't have to keep on dieing. People need LIFE."

You guys have shown me life. Katy I want to thank you for your encouragement. It has really set many captives free. More than you know. Reader I want to thank you for experiencing this journey with me as I long to experience more with you. I want to pray with you. Please leave any insight or prays below.

I pray that your passion for the heart of God would extend. I pray the His Spirit would empower you to go and follow that call and to literally BE the will of God. I pray that you in the office chair, or at home, or maybe in ChikFila (I miss it), would feel the presence of the Lord almighty.--equipped to love and serve each other. I pray for a new intimacy and a deeper knowledge and wisdom of Christ. To BECOME ALIVE IN CHRIST. Amen

I love you all.

A Toast to Michael Jackson.

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

King of pop dies. It seems that he has left a legacy with every generation.

I remember where I first taught myself the "moonwalk." I would wear my white crew socks and would slide across the kitchen floor. I wondered if MJ's feet were made of butter.

MJ didn't always have the best wrap in media, but I always saw his talent. I watched many documentaries about his life and felt compassion. His brokenness was just amplified with the life that he lived in the spotlight.

My friend Robby and I were reminiscing today about his life. Robby asked "Did Michael Jackson really love what he was doing?" "Was he happy?" Some would assume the King of Pop lived the life he wanted, but did he?

People always think about life when death knocks down the door. I would like to think someone with such influence and his love for rhythm and dance is what compelled him. I saw a certain freedom in his performance but did he feel it in his heart. Did he feel alive?

I have now been in Mijas, Spain for less than two weeks and am finding a whole new depth of the Lords freedom in my life. I want to not just dance free and live in a freedom but set all those around me free. I want to be free of all religion. Jesus despised religion. I want to set the captives free.

This past year has wrecked me. I am alive. I desire to see people come alive. To see the sleepers arise. For the Lord will shine upon them.

Even though MJ and I never sat down and had a good cup o' joe, I pray that his family and friends would come to know the glory of the Lord. Redemption and freedom is here. So next time I slide into the "moonwalk" I will toast to freedom.

To check out the Spain blog site for Generation 42, go to http://blog.g42global.org I will be blogging every Friday and the rest of the group will be blogging on the other days. To learn more about what I am doing go to http://www.g42global.org/leadershipacademy OR go to my last blog on the left titled "SPAIN. The next step in my life."

Kira Needs Help!

Mon, 18 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Finishing Support

This is a friend of mine that needs your help to finish her support raising. The following blog is written by Kira.

Posted in General Articles by Kira Guerke on 5/16/2009

While I was busy with ministry work in Ukraine, I discovered that I still have about $1, 389.24 left to raise. I HAVE JUST 3 DAYS TO DO THIS! I have kept a close watch on my support level throughout the Race, however the monthly amount of pledged financial assistance has been steadily decreasing since the New Year. Just recently, I was informed by my organization that the remainder of my support must met by the 20^th of May. If you are reading this, I do hope you can help me =) Please take some time to prayerfully consider supporting me & if you can donate then click "Support Us!" on the left-hand side of your screen. I want you to know, it sincerely makes me glad when I think about all those who have faithfully given every month & to those who gave what they could, when they could. I know God will provide in these next 5 days...so THANK YOU in advance!

SPAIN. The next step in my life.

Wed, 6 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A fter 13 countries, 4 continents, 1,000's of orphans, 30 different cultures, 21 languages, countless number of people experiencing God's love all in 11months: My journey has just begun.

God took me around the world to show me His love for all of humanity. In the midst of this crazy journey, I saw and experienced a lot of suffering. Instead of fleeing from God, I saw a deeply rooted love He has for each person. In the places where some would say God abandoned, that was where I found Him. The hope and love that God expressed through me transcended all language and cultural barriers. The message of Christ pierced thousands of hearts this year and I can't wait to be dancing and singing with them in heaven for-ev-er.

With all of your prayers and support a girl has walked away from a life of prostitution. Coco, an African mother suffering with HIV, has finally found hope for her eight children. A tiny church body in Guatemala is encouraged and strengthened. A Myanmar village hit by Cyclone Nargis (May 08) heard the name of Jesus for the first time. A Thai masseuse felt the power of the Holy Spirit and was healed from her thyroid. A Gypsy village in Romania starts to understand the power of loving one another. And a young 23 year old American girl was gently guided to death of herself only to find a life worth living in and for Christ. Above: Moldovan sunrise. 5:30 a.m.

Like I said, my journey has just begun. After experiencing the amazing power of God, I can't help but live a life sold out for Him.

God has revealed my next step in life. I have been praying about how I am to be used in His Kingdom. This year has allowed me to dream freely and think beyond any limitations I have placed in my future. Adventures in Missions has partnered with Generation 42 Leadership Academy located in Mijas, Spain. More information http://www.g42global.org/leadershipacademy/index.html

The academy will be a perfect transition for me after the World Race. G42 and the World Race is rising up leaders for the Kingdom of God. They are passionate about empowering generations to use their gifts in the way God is calling them. They are passionate about the Kingdom being planted all over and seeing the church arise.

I see this school as being a next step in discovering more of the ministry God has started in me.

I am planning on attending the academy June 15^th and will be there for six months. Please pray about supporting me in this next journey in prayer and financially. To support me click here or click on "support me" on the left hand side of this page . Just type in Tara Stephenson and any money given whether is says World Race or not will go directly towards my personal G42 account.

Here is a short video about Spain made by a past World Racer and a current student enrolled in G42, Sean Smith.

God emailed me today.

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

God emailed me today.

I was sitting talking with my good friend Josh Bruce about the Holy Spirit and how it can sometimes be so complex and that my little mind makes it more confusing that it really is. (like that sentence We were talking about the baptism of the Holy Spirit. I brought a verse in 1 John where it talks about how we know He is in us by His Spirit. I have an understanding that the Spirit of God came to dwell in me when I made that decision to follow Jesus. I sometimes find it hard to understand the baptism of it all.

Then Satan tries to shoot lies out about comparing my walk with other people that are having these crazy out of body experiences. As Josh and I were talking, I came to understand that as I am walking this out in love following Jesus, that alone is a pure miracle from the LORD. To love my enemies. To turn the other check. To choose to love when knowing it won't be received. To forgive and expect nothing in return. To give only because of joy. TO LOVE. It has started to become natural that I am not having these "crazy out of body experiences." Is that part the baptism? Did I have to fall and speak in a tongue for it to happen? Did I have to shake and see all these blind men see to really believe that the Spirit of the LIVING God lives in me? Our do I need to walk out the purpose that God has laid before me in confidence and not compare.

The Spirit of the LIVING GOD comes out in power. When Jesus comes, He comes in power. So if through a tongue or prophecy, or ministering to someone through encouragement, or in LOVE. There He is: The SPIRIT OF THE LIVING GOD DWELLING IN US. God's timing is perfect in all things. There is always more that God wants to do through us. But before any more comes I must proclaim once again that the Spirit is in me, alive and well, and decide that the lies and comparison dies.

And then I got an email from one of my girls that I lead at church from home. Actually I got an email from God 2 minutes after talking about all this with Josh. At the end of the email they wrote "1 John 4:13-17 you're livin it girlie!"

1 John 4:13-17 (New International Version)

¹³ We know that we live in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit.¹⁴And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. ¹⁵If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in him and he in God. ¹⁶And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. ¹⁷In this way, love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment, because in this world we are like him.

I think God just spoke. Amen

Club Jesus.

Sat, 18 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I am sitting here in Romania realizing I haven't told you one story from Malawi. I worked with Pastor Harvey a.k.a Pator Gansta. The 8 of us, Pastor G, and 5 other translators hit the road set out to plant three churches. We would pull up to a village in a white 80's painted van known as the "Love Bug." The sound system would blast and the people would come. Church planting included singing, dancing, and a lot preaching. So many people came to know Christ and now are starting to function as the church. But in all, dancing for JC is what brought the people in. I like to call it "Club Jesus." I don't think I stopped dancing in the 2 1/2 weeks we were on the road. This is my kind of church planting. Shaking it for the Kingdom of God. Enjoy this video made by Jen Crane. More to come on Romania......but first dancing for Jesus.

"Beauty From Ashes" (Video)

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

To wrap up the "Beauty From Ashes" weekend--here is a video that my fellow racer (katie rowland) made. Continue to pray for healing and a movement that will change the next generation of Swazi peeps. Love to you all!

Day of Beauty.

Wed, 8 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Day of Beauty.

After the Day of Ashes, our team wanted the the women see their beauty. Our inspiration for the whole womens conference came from Isaiah 61.

"The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and realease from darkness fro the prisioners, to proclaim the eyar of the LORD's favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn and provide for those who grieve in Zion--...."

The women have so much to grieve. Some may of the women say that all they see is their ashes, but all God sees is their beauty. Once again, no words- just pictures.

....to bestow on them a
crown of beauty instead of ashes,





the oil of gladness
       instead of mourning,

and a garment of praise
        instead of a spirit of despair.










They will be called oaks of righteousness,
       a planting of the LORD
       for the display of his splendor.

Video to Come.

Day of Ashes.

Thu, 2 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Beauty From Ashes

One weekend in Manzini, Swaziland. Thirty women. Best three days of the race. AIM founder, Seth Barnes, has always had a heart for the broken in Swaziland. He had a vision of the women being put into an enviroment that would allow them to share their life stories and morn with one another.

He also had a vision that each woman would create a story book that would allow her to express her pain that she has indiviually endured.

The women in Swazi are taught to hide. To let their life and hardships be buried. To go unexposed. A small team of eight girls put together a womens conference called "Beauty from Ashes." We set up meals, team shirts, speakers, worship, a program, but GOD did the rest. He took women out of their pain into a place of freedom and restoration. This was the best weekend I could have ever been a part of and seen. I just sat back and cried. What I saw was church. I saw true worship. I don't quite have the words, so I thought the pictures would do the rest. When you look at each woman, know that she has been through the fire but came out victorious and refined. These are the survivors of Swaziland. Follow the journey with them.

Day of Beauty to come........

Final Continent Switch!

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I am sitting here in Johannesburg, South Africa reminiscence on my past three months on this continent.

My route includes:

January: Mozambique to Swaziland

February: down to South Africa and back to Swaziland

March: couple of days in South Africa and then a wicked 57 hour bus ride to Malawi, back to South Africa

And now I leave in less than 24 hours for Romania. Once again, completely different culture, climate, people, smells , food, style, language, transportation, etc.............

I have so much to update about Africa. I have found out that I am one-forth African. I always knew it was in my blood. My Irish skin and hair just covered most of it up!:) Looking forward to coming back.

I will be posting more pictures and blogs when I get a faster connection in Romania.

My remaining route:

April: Romania living in a Gypsy village

May: Moldova or Ukraine

Two months left and sometimes I feel like I just left. I know that sounds crazy. I think so myself. Looking back, I just see God's faithfulness on all His people. He TRULY is the only God of this world. His love reigns in the highest of heights to the depths of the sea. I HAVE SEEN IT! and can't wait to share more.......more to come on Africa---the land of spiritual wealth.

I'm a Giraffe!

Wed, 4 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Our squad was able to enjoy and authentic African safari. We quickly realized that there is a little African animal in all of us.

I think I might be 1/4 Giraffe!

Video by: Katie Rowland