A Seed Planted

Long ago a dream, like a tiny seed, was deeply planted in my soul. 

 Africa

I wanted to help, but.... 

             who was I to go?

How could I help? 

                             What could I do?

Seeds deeply planted often go unnoticed, but last January that seed began to grow.
A friend had just returned from a trip to Uganda. She spoke passionately of Sisters of HopeInternational (SOHI)- a sponsorship ministry enabling and empowering women in Uganda through prayer, encouragement, training, and resources; training them in basic business training , a Village Bank, skills training, and English classes (see below).


"You should come..." 
she said. And with that a dream so often dismissed, began to break ground and sprout.

Seeds of Awareness - We learn & Listen; transforming our mindset and world view.

As God’s people we are called to reflect his generosity, love and compassion.We  can give voice and support for the over 1 billion people around the world who live in extreme poverty.[1]  Learning to connect that desire and call to tangible help that empowers the poor, rather than further oppressing them.

Baking and catering is a lucrative business opportunity for Ugandan women. Training provides basic cake making, proofing, decorating, bakery setup, accounting, marketing skills, food sanitation requirements, & tool kit. (click here to see other skill training)

Seeds of Action- We begin seeing the poor as the solution, not the problem; moving from aide to enterprise.

Her name is Gorreth Nakanwagi. She is a 39 year old married mother of 4. She cares for 6 additional children not her own. She had to discontinue her education to take care of her 9 younger siblings when her parents died. Her desire was to grow her sweater making business; needing to take the Basic Business and Village Bank training.

We began an SOHI Sponsorship to provide Gorreth steps out of poverty and toward self sufficiency through resources, tools, and training to create and grow a business. Created in God’s image, the human mind is a source of wealth, ideas, and drive.[2] So we offer support to her agenda, not our own, through business training, skills,& resources.[3]

A week ago, I was blessed to receive a letter from her. Hope was evident as she shared her gratitude “My family is delighted to have you as our friend…” She is now training others on sweater knitting and making! And… her four daughters are back in school for their first term!

Seeds of Advocacy- we go; listening to their stories, learning from them, and showing support & encouragement to our Sisters in Christ around the globe.

This August 13, 2017 I will join a team of 6 will depart for Entebbe, Uganda to walk alongside the SOHI
women of Kampala and Masaka Uganda.

We will be hosting a conference in Masaka, visiting their places of business, their homes, and joining their meetings including their village bank meeting. 

There will also be opportunity to teach some skills which we are still working out details. Their win is my win- I am so excited to meet these resilient sisters in Christ who truly live LIFE in the daily Grind and offer all I have to share.

Our leader, Debi (from California) asked if someone from the team could “teach cake decorating skills”


I can! ....Who would have thought!?!So- if you have any old decorating supplies or tips you’d be willing to send for the ladies… let me know!

Will you partner with me?

Dreams are not only given for the dreamer, but for all those along the way! Like fruit- shared & savored.
 “So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. He who plants and he who waters are one in purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor. For we are God’s fellow workers” -1 Cor 3:7-9

Partner In Prayer-. 

Pray for Justice for the Poor. Pray for truth, grace & discernment; that our words and actions convey support and empowerment. And lastly, pray for me to slow down and ‘be’; learning from, listening to, & loving the SOHI women who live LIFE in the African Grind.

Partner financially- 

The total cost will be about $3500.00 for airfare, visa, transportation, lodging, and food costs. I would be humbled to have you partner with me by:

Mail: Michelle Fritze and: 17952 Dahlia Rd., Park Rapids, MN 56470. 
Online: gofundme “Michelle’s Africa Trip: SOHI Uganda https://www.gofundme.com/fritzefund4SOHI2017.

Thank you! Your support & encouragement express the heart of God; who is the giver of all good gifts. And I am so grateful for it! I will update here to keep you in the loop; praying that you too will be blown away by the Goodness of God!




[1] The Poverty Cure
[2] The Poverty Cure
[3] The Poverty Cure

Radical Life in the Grind

Yesterday in 8th grade Social Studies, after discussing the Dark Ages, I asked if anyone would want to have lived during that time.  One student replied flippantly, 

"Yolo, man.- You only live once!"  

The youth cry Yolo in defiance- seeking to gratify their own desires- for they only live once. With more than words, he expressed a common belief: that this is all there is- so gratify your desires @ whatever the cost! I cringed.  Probably not from what you think. I know that is a common motto of those in this world. Jesus came to save the very ones that cry that out.

But the well is deep...

As I read Oswald Chambers this morning, I couldn't help but share it. As I shared in my previous blog, our Bible study theme this year has been “Come Thirsty.” And I believe we have. Like Christ at the well with the Samaritan woman, I believe God has offered us Living Water each time we met- just for the asking. And yet, although we know we are thirsty and drink that in, there are some very deep wells that seem unsatisfied for me and for others.

Come Thirsty

 What do you thirst for?  

"If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink.” -Jn 7:37

I live in a place where clean healthy water has been more than available to me. All too often I have disregarded the needs of my body for something that tingles my taste buds.

In July of 2008 I was on mission trip in Crimea working with Orphans Hope and the children of Kerch, Ukraine. As we traveled, we had been instructed NOT to drink tap water unless it had been boiled- so our choice would be bottled water: with or without carbonation, or "bubbles." In one seaside town of clean healthy water was in short supply making it not at all uncommon for public water supply to be unavailable for awhile at a given time during the day. 

I hate it when...

I hate it when I have to get water from the sink because my fridge's filtered water dispenser is broken.



I do hate it. But, it's bound to happen when the temperature is -50 below zero and the front door is blown open in the middle of the night. At that temp it doesn't take long to freeze anything in it's path; like refrigerator pipes.  Well, that is, until the door is shut, the heat is cranked up and the house begins to warm; and along with it....the pipes.   

"Michelle... We have a problem!" 

Covered by Grace

Although it's been 6 months of silence on this blog, I feel a bit like the shepherds who where told the great news and just couldn't wait to share!

"And he will be called "Emmanuel" which means God with us!"

375 bags of Candy Cane Almond Bark were made that AM

One of my favorite events at Christmas is making Candy Cane Almond Bark with the ladies from Tuesday morning Bible study.

Just like the rest of the world on planet earth, life seems to be spinning faster and faster. As December 2013 approached, I ran into Kathy, a selfless volunteer for the food shelf,  who asked "Are you going to be making the candy for the food shelf baskets?"

It was probably 4 years ago, I had first visited with Kathy and her husband about the idea. Bible studies are so often about taking in, so I was looking for opportunities for our group to pour out.

1st time @ MinneSoda Fountain

It began small, in the back room of the MinneSoda Fountain- crushed candy canes are mixed it into melted almond bark. Poured in little patties to cool; then broken in to small pieces. Bags are labeled and decorated with stickers. But perhaps most importantly, a small message with the Hope of Christ is tucked inside.

1st year making candy

Although I didn't know how I could add one more thing to my plate, I said yes.

So often I find that biggest obstacle to obedience is saying "yes." Adjusting my will to His rather than mine. Life was running for me like the lead car at the Indy 500.
Excuses popped in my head like lights going by....Common sense and  reason said- you can't do this!

2011

I thought, "You have no time..."
             
      And yet I know we all make time for what is important to us.
     
I thought "No one has extra money right now..."
But I know God owns it all. And the cost is no problem for him. In 2012, the free-will donations matched the grocery bill to the dollar!
               
I thought, "You can't get it all together this time..."

I couldn't. It was Sunday night. Tuesday at 8am was go time. I sat again to write the insert. Nothing. Rambling and babbling. I admitted defeat, gave up and went to bed. I was scheduled to work Monday- we would have to use a message from before and I still didn't know how or when I would be able to get 375 printed and cut.

As a 3rd grade substitute, I have 1/2 hour for lunch. At 11:30 I sat down and prayed, "Lord, if you want a message it's now.  And I tried to clear my head. Slowly, I began to type... "Look at the candy enclosed within. God poured himself out and covered our sin..."  I just tried to listen, slowly listen. The words formed, and a cadence fell. And I typed a bit more. Done. I just knew it.

I hit [send]. The email time stamp I received was 11:59am!

"So we keep on praying for you, asking our God to enable you to live a life worthy of his call. May he give you the power to accomplish all the good things your faith prompts you to do."  2Thes 1:11(NLT)

After finishing Monday on what felt like the Indy circuit, the inserts were printed, cut, and the pots were readied for an early morning melt.  I couldn't do it alone, but by the many hands of His faithful here on earth, God could. There is a moment at the end of the movie "Bruce Almighty" when God does something that only He could have done, and Bruce looks up with a smile and says, "Aw, now you're just showing off."

I felt like saying the very same thing!

Although the snow was frigid and blustery, you would never have guessed it. These women, so covered by God's grace, they overflowed with excitement and cheer. By 8:30am we were in full swing and it looked a bit like santa's workshop with 22 elves stripping and crushing the mountainous piles of candy canes; preparing bags; and folding endless flyers for the camp.  We stopped but once. Coffee in hand, I shared about how God provided very clearly our message this year.  Then a dear one, new to our flock, stepped forward and with gratefulness shared how she, like the candy, was broken. Like so many of us, she had worked endlessly to hold the pieces together. Yet, she had witnessed God's love and presence in the midst this fellowship. She now was free- "covered by Grace;"

Once again, God was "showing off." I say that because my dear friend's testimony was the message on the insert that day. It ends like this: "But when we are broken then covered by Grace, we bring forth his Kingdom- to make this world a sweet place!"   She did.  Oh, we saw his Kingdom ... and how sweet it is!

And he (Jesus) will be called “Emmanuel” which means God with Us!

Look at the candy enclosed within. God poured himself out and covered our sin. This message of grace that came from above was born in a manger; displaying God’s love. A miraculous announcement fit for a king; first given to shepherds with nothing to bring. God asked them to trust Him; to believe that it’s true.  The very same calling He gives me and you.  We are the candy, stained red by sin- our own and by others- this world we live in. But when we are broken then covered by Grace, we bring forth his Kingdom-  to make this world a sweet place! 

Praying you would, like the shepherd, seek the LORD. If so, we believe you will come know and experience Emmanuel- God with you.  As tangible as that baby, found in a manger, His presence, love and grace are available to you when you are covered by his death and resurrection!

A Bit of "Bling" for Guatemala

Socks crocheted with a bit of "Bling"

"Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you." Ja 1:27

My friend Sherry, had just finished listening to Kay tell about her mission trip to Jamaica for a vision clinic. Sherry said the internal battle that raged within her was palpable. Her daughter was deeply involved in Guatemalan missions team and had been there many times. Every time Sherry had a reason not to. Until now. The Holy Spirit used Kay's presentation to wrestle and defeat every excuse Sherry had held as legitimate. Her aging mother's care.... "Go." responsibilities... "Go."  

"Scarf "Opportunities

What reminds me of a generous heart?

                a scarf.

A dear woman whom I have come to adore; exclaimed
   "Oh, you like it... here, I'd like you to have it." and with that, she removed her scarf- draping it in the hands of the young woman.

I want to do that...choose generosity in opportunities like that; yet, all too often I have chosen stinginess over generosity; worrying for my own needs and wants.  I have justified it as prudence and fiscal responsibility.  "If I had more I could be more generous..." I would tell myself; knowing full well that:

Tug o War

Century School Field Day

“Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit.  So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace....”Ro 8:5-6

Field Day. I still remember mine nearly 40 years ago. The other day I watched as the eager 2^nd graders were preparing for the big day.  Today they would be practicing the tug o’ war.  The kids chomped at the bit- vying for the rope. The red ribbon that marked center would remain neutral for a fraction of a moment as the whistle blew. After that, the team that pulled the strongest would control its fate.

Fire!

Park Rapids Fire, May 16th 2013

““The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” (Pr 18:21)

We saw it at we drove south of town.  Off in the distance black smoke was rising.  Strong winds fueled the blaze that consumed 7100 acres; destroying  far more than the 64 buildings that were in it’s wake.  What started it?

A spark.  That’s all it took.  Our tongue, if not controlled, does damage just like that fire. (Ja 3:5)

I held the phone. The anger and veracity were like strong winds that fueled damaging words.  The words burned. Blame, names, and bitterness erupted and spread… like a fire. Rage. Her tongue raged with anger.  As I hung up the phone I felt scorched and my worth left in ashes.  I wept.

Two Men walk up to a bar...

MinneSoda Fountain

“Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn’t God chosen the poor in this world to be rich in faith? Aren’t they the ones who will inherit the Kingdom he promised to those who love him?” Ja 2:5

I was washing dishes- the lunch rush was over.  Two men bellied up to the bar. That is, our ice cream counter. The younger one, maybe mid- twenties, was looking for a bite to eat. He looked like he stepped out of Berkley College. Everything about him radiated his copious amounts of knowledge regarding history and politics.  The second man looked much older-rough; life had not been kind. His hands & clothes were dirty.  As I look back, it might not have been that he was so much older; just perhaps that the trials of life had multiplied his years- etching time deeper in his weathered frame. Sitting a stools space from me, his pungent smell was evident.

Bricks or Stepping Stones

“Don't grumble against one another...”Ja 5:9

A few years back I recall a Sunday afternoon in which 10 to 15 teenagers stood in front of a small congregation that had gathered to hear of their mission trip out East.  As with many reports we were regaled with stories of the journey.  Some kids were brave enough to share how God had revealed Himself to them; others unknowingly confirmed His provision as they shared the happenings and events on the journey.  What struck me most was when Phil, their leader, stepped forward with a brick.

What's good about Good Friday?

Today He was dead. In a tomb. Sealed.

How is it that 3 days dead can work for good?  A co-worker of mine expressed her how much he disliked the dying part of Easter.  I wonder what the disciples thought. Shocked. Dismayed. Even if they had hoped for him to come back to life- I bet they were past it now. Do you think they wondered,
"This wasn't how it was supposed to be.."
      "What do I do now?"
         
I wonder what Peter thought in those dark days.  Did he think about that conversation during their last supper together.

"While they were reclining at the table eating, he said, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me—one who is eating with me.” They were saddened, and one by one they said to him, “Surely you don’t mean me?”...“You will all fall away,” Jesus told them, ... Peter declared, “Even if all fall away, I will not.” “Truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “today—yes, tonight—before the rooster crows twice you yourself will disown me three times.” But Peter insisted emphatically, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the others said the same". (Mk 14:18-19,27,29-31)

Did regret fill his mind- realizing he chose fear over friendship? Fear over faith.

When I would hear those word of Christ's before- I would hear them with a bit of a bite. But I'm not so sure anymore.  What if Christ was not mad or disappointed. What if he was simply telling Peter the truth. He knew the conviction would be tested. "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Mk 14:38.

Jesus knew He was a committed follower of Christ. He'd seen his desire to live obediently- even to the point of stepping out of a boat to walk on the waves!  You've got to give the man credit.  He drew his sword to defend Christ, yet in fear, perhaps disillusionment- he denied Christ, and now Christ was dead.

I find it interesting that so many of the people I've been privileged to walk with in their journey of Faith would attest that the resolve of their Faith was strengthened by persevering a difficult time or trial.
James seemed to find the same to be true: "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds,because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." Ja 1:2-4.

What a trial for Peter. I don't imagine he felt joy. I wouldn't presume to know what went through his mind over those days of darkness-  but this I do see.  God was working in Peters heart.  In the midst of anguish- God was at work!
Tomorrow is Resurrection- Jesus is Alive!
     Jesus is God just as He said! -Nothing is impossible.
                All he said was True!

Jesus seeks him out and shows Peter grace.  Peter is changed. No more doubt- He doesn't just want to follow Christ- There is no holding him back.  May we  too believe Christ is LORD ... and when we live that conviction... there will be no holding us back.

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Ro 8:28.  

Show and Tell:Easter Baggie Baskets

"May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world." Gal 6:14

Show and tell. I was just in a classroom not too long ago where children circled anxiously for their turn to share their treasures.  Barely able to contain their joy, most sat and squirmed- barely able to contain themselves. Not long ago our pastor reminded us that we, as followers of Christ, have a treasure for Show & Tell a midst the people we circle up with each day. Our treasure: the freedom and hope we have in Christ!  Show (the love of Christ) & Tell (give Him the Credit).

I just have to share this joy and encouragement!  People who love the LORD become filled with His love and compassion... and it shows!

Filled with the desire to express our faith in love, these women set out to create Easter "baskets" that could be distributed by the food shelf to the children whose families utilize it.

Too Much!

"For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks." Lu 6:45

Cake #1

Have you ever taken on a bit to much?  I did that night. Here's the lead up.

  

A woman had asked me to make a cake for a birthday party she was giving. She   asked to have it by Friday night, for a party Saturday morning. A sweet little 6" round white with raspberry filling decorated with pink curly-cues.   I have done many a cake- most for my little boys... none with pink and none like this.