Gideon's 300

I have been meditating on the story of Gideon lately.  As a challenge to those who support our journey to Northern Iraq, I have mentioned Gideon's 300 because we need 300 gifts of $100 to meet our budget for the next 10 months.  To date we need 240 more gifts.

Here are some thoughts from the story:

• The angel told Gideon, "The LORD is with you..." (ch 6 v 12)
• Gideon questioned the presence and calling of the LORD.
• The LORD said, "I will be with you..." (v 16)
• God was patient ("I will wait..." v 18) and gave Gideon several signs to give him confidence.
• We are so thankful for God's presence and calling on our lives.  He has shown us patience and, upon reflection, has given us many signs as confirmation.
• God said to reduce the number of men so they would not boast in their efforts. (ch 7 v 2)
• Those who were fearful, were given the chance to go home.
• There were still too many men, so a random test was given and Gideon's army was reduced to just 300 men.
• Sometimes my plans are not God's plans.  He chooses to work in His timing and His ways.  We desire many to go "with" us on this journey, but God reveals himself, His power, in the few.
• Gideon was given the opportunity to further increase his faith by hearing a dream from the enemy.
• There have been many stories relayed to us about Muslims having dreams about Jesus.  We pray God will speak to our friends and neighbors in this way.
• The Ephraimites complained, "Why didn't you call us..." to help?
• We are trying to ask all we know to get involved.  All cannot help financially, but there are many ways to be a part of what God is doing in Kurdistan.
• The men of Succoth refused to help. "You're on a wild goose chase; why should we help you on a fool's errand?" (ch 8 v 6 MSG)
• Many have asked if we are crazy.  Some have actually refused to support our going.  We agree that it is crazy.  However, as Katrina, was told, "If something doesn't seem natural, it might just be supernatural."

So, how can you help?  

How can someone you know help?  

How can a small group that you are a part of help?

Winchester Family Financial Needs:

$850 per month rent in Kurdistan

   (our landlord expects 3 months at a time; $2550 four

    times a year)

    Our next rent payment is due September 1st

$1,000 estimated cost for Kate’s braces

     We have had most of the work done here, but she

     needs the bottom brackets while we are in Iraq

$1,000 monthly living costs

SOME ESTIMATED MONTHLY COSTS:

• $65 for taxi fare
• $100  for phone service and internet
• $400 for groceries
• $50 for generator electricity
• $50 for prescription medication
• $100 for dining out
• $40 for clothing/shoes

To the right, there are links for donate via credit card or print a mail-in support form.

Saw this and had to share.
It is a humbling responsibility you give us.

Opus Dei Cum Pecunia Alienum Efficemus
- "Doing God's Work With Other People's Money"