This past weekend I said goodbye to one of the closest people in my life, my sweet grandma Gerry Barker. She entered into eternal rest with Jesus on December 14, 2010. She's been with me all 32 years of my life and will be with me in my heart as I take the next step forward to Africa. My grandma loved helping people, she was such a giver, always thinking about others needs and not herself. Even in the last few weeks she just wanted to make sure we were all ok. She's been a constant example in my life. She's helped me considerably on my journey to Zimbabwe and always loved hearing about my mission trips and what I would be doing next. I know that she will be smiling upon me when I'm in Africa full-time. I also know God's timing is perfect. My grandma lived with my family and I was able to live there also and work from home and help with grandma over the past few years. It's a time I will always cherish and I believe now more than ever God is releasing me to Africa; there is a peace knowing my grandma Gerry is being taken care of in heaven.This past Sunday at Celebration Church I had the priviledge of hearing David Meyer speak. I will be working closely with Joyce Meyer Ministries in Zimbabwe as we help feed hundreds of thousands of children. David spoke about giving on Sunday. As he spoke I thought about my grandma, such a giver in life. She didn't just give at Christmas, she gave all the time. What I remember most about David's message was that he said Find a need and meet it. I pray that I can do that in my everyday walk in Africa and everywhere that I go.
There are so many children in Zimbabwe that are in need. Will you pray about meeting that need? It doesn't take alot, just a willing and obedient heart. One by one we will work together to change a life. You can see how you can partner into this ministry below if interested.
As I finish this blog I feel so many emotions. Sadness over missing my grandma, joy in that I have such a loving and supportive family, and excited expectancy for what is yet to come in Africa and what God is going to do.
I love you grandma, SO much!! Thank you for teaching me so much. I pray that I make you proud. - Shannon
Donation Details:
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World Outreach Ministries
P.O. Box B
Marietta, GA 30061
(designate for Routzahn, Fund Code #91)
