Amanda had tears in her eyes.
She had saved up while she worked in Jackson Hole for a volunteering trip to Africa. One might be surprised to know that you have to pay ALOT of money to go across the world, work hard, and give everything youve got. After two and half months abroad, her little sack of African Rand was growing light, and sometimes, so was her faith.
She hadnt found a respectable, decent paying even part time job in Florida since she arrived there mid July of last year. Anyone can feel upset, lost, and discouraged by this. At a picnic table at a little pizza joint outside Kruger National Park, she let it out. Afraid, frustrated and let down.
I encouraged her to keep the faith. At times when it feels like life has you down, and is winning, I turn to faith for the answer. She came here for God, to do some of his good work, she responded to the call, which most would just try to shove back under the bed. I knew in my heart that by giving so much of herself to Africa, her time, her emotion, her exhaustion, and her money, I knew she would be reimbursed by God.
In Florida, two days ago a social work program called her and hired her full time with full benefits to be a child case worker. With her incredible experience, they were impressed and took her on board. Nobody is getting hired right now, but Amanda did.
I dont know if she jumped up and down, but I did.
Its the circle.
You give and give, but if you keep the faith, it will come back to you.
If you give everything to Him, including your gift, He will return it to you in some way.
This is a lesson in faith.
Maybe in these tough times, we need to remember this thought.
Amanda had tears in her eyes again.
-amy
