The conversation went like this….
L: (5 days ago) I am praying for a miracle – that you will get another ophthalmologist to join your mission team in Colombia.
Me: Many people have been praying for this, and we are so grateful – but at this late date, it could never happen.
L: I am not giving up!
Me: Well, you go right ahead. (secretly thinking, Fat Chance!)
J: (at dinner, 2 days later) I got the strangest email today. An ophthalmologist who found out about our mission project said she wishes she had known, because she would love to come, and is available.
Me: Well, L has been praying for a miracle. Maybe this is it!
J: Maybe I should call this doctor and ask if she is serious about this.
Me: (Beginning to think a ray of hope might be breaking through the clouds) Why not? Nothing ventured, nothing gained!
J: (the next day) She would love to come, but doesn’t have all of the money to fund the trip.
L: Aren’t there any donors you could ask?
T: Everyone in our circles has done so much already; we can’t ask any more.
Later that day, a conversation with our project director…
J: Well, one third of the trip cost has been provided, thanks to a mission foundation. And now that I think of it, I recall that there are some surplus funds available from another organization I am part of. (another one third, covered!)
J: (The next morning, 3 days before the project begins) Can you believe it? She is coming, and excited to join our team! All the arrangements have been made!
I had goosebumps (and teary eyes) for a few hours after this, in awe of God’s power and providence. I know He is capable of working out details beyond our wildest imaginations – but me, of lesser faith than my friend, never believed for one minute that this was possible.
For the addition of this doctor, and for this important lesson, I am deeply thankful. God is equipping our team with the professionals that we need – and preparing our hearts to pour out His love in the weeks ahead as we serve the people of Cienaga, Colombia.
We are wholeheartedly ready.
Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. Do not stifle the Holy Spirit. ~I Thessalonians 5:17-19
We thank everyone who has been praying for our Medical Ministry International team as we prepare for our eye project in Cienaga, Colombia, and would be grateful for continued prayers during our project.
Special thanks to Lois – prayer warrior supreme… and believer in miracles.
beWARM 
My heart is smiling……
Mine too…..
The Scripture reading from Children of Destiny today (daily prayer site for children with autism, created by a prayer-warrior couple with two autistic children): Jeremiah 32:17 – “Ah, Sovereign Lord! You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you!” SO wish I would remember that when I most need it………. We all need a Lois to teach us!
Amen to that!
God loves to make a way where there is no way!
Indeed, He does! Thank you again for believing….and Happy Birthday!
Toni, this is wonderful news! Praying for the mission as we get ready for our Bolivia mission in February!
And we will be praying for your team, too!
How wonderful! Toni, there is still money in my MMI account designated toward Colunbia expenses and as I said before, I would be willing to give my spot and funds if necessary. I don’t fly until tomorrow.
Elizabeth, you have a servant’s heart! Thanks for your offer…but all of the doctor’s expenses have been covered – and you are a valued team member!!!
Bless you for the thought!
Thanks for sharing this WONDERFUL LESSON! Blessing be with all of you!
Love this testimony, Toni! I have seen His miracles firsthand, and yet I too lack belief for the “much much” He wants to do & give. Thanks for causing my faith to rise today! Hugs-geri
Thanks Geri! Realizing that God is pleased when we pray for what we think could never transpire has boosted my faith, too!
Hugs back to you…
PRAISING Him..along with you all!!!!!
We are honored to have this opportunity….for Him!
Hi Toni,
What a wonderful testimony to God’s willingness to answer prayers, work in the details of our lives and answer in ways beyond our wildest dreams! I’ve been in a place this week where I’ve needed to be reminded of that. Have a wonderfully blessed time in Colombia. I will be praying for His glory in all the work that you’ll be doing there, for His love to reach the people you encounter, for grace with the customs officials and with the logistics of a new place, and for Him to touch all of your hearts in profound ways. Can’t wait to hear about it when you’re back…please keep me posted!
Safe travels and much love, Jennifer
JENNIFER DAVIDSON
http://www.jdavidsonphotography.com 505.577.0437
I have heard my own ‘small faith’ thoughts as well. Thank you for sharing and reminding us how faithfully amazing God is. Now, why do I ever doubt?