city-not-forsaken

Isaiah 62
" Regarding Zion, I can't keep my mouth shut, regarding Jerusalem, I can't hold my tongue,
Until her righteousness blazes down like the sun
   and her salvation flames up like a torch.
Foreign countries will see your righteousness,
   and world leaders your glory.
You'll get a brand-new name
   straight from the mouth of God.
You'll be a stunning crown in the palm of God's hand,
   a jeweled gold cup held high in the hand of your God."

The past two weeks since I got back to the Dominican have been the most life-giving, full of joy weeks that I can remember. That is not to say that everything has been peachy, neat, or tidy - but beautiful things are happening all the time. Life is still as messy as it's always been and something new is thrown my way every day. The difference is I have this peace and joy and fullness that still hasn't gone away. 

My attention is called away from myself, away from pain to things that are beautiful... like endless cups of coffee, smiles that show the inside of a person, people who have grace for you when you mess up, coming home to a lit up house after a walk home wondering if there would be power, or witnessing someone hearing truth maybe for the first time ever. I feel more than ever a passion to fight for this place, to not give up until the Lord renews and restores. I love what I'm doing and I know it's worth it, even if the world thinks I'm crazy.

I am so blessed to be doing exactly what makes my heart come alive, and I am so thankful to all of you who are donating and praying and encouraging.  The Lord is using you to bring life to this place, and to bring life to me. All in his timing. Thank you :)

He makes all things new.

"Walk out of the gates. Get going!
   Get the road ready for the people.
Build the highway. Get at it!
   Clear the debris,
   hoist high a flag, a signal to all peoples!
Yes! God has broadcast to all the world:
   "Tell daughter Zion, 'Look! Your Savior comes,
Ready to do what he said he'd do,
   prepared to complete what he promised.'"
Zion will be called new names: Holy People, God-Redeemed,
   Sought-Out, City-Not-Forsaken."

bon voyage.

 So I'm leaving for the Dominican again, August 15th! Four days from now. I am so rested and ready to be blown away by God's glory.  I can't wait to see what's waiting. Thank you for your prayers, they are so very necessary.  If you'd like to support me financially for this year, click the Paypal link on the right side of this page to donate or send me an email (emilee.cook@gmail.com) about other ways to give! Please send me your address if you'd like to receive an update letter in the mail. I love that we can all be a part of reaching the nations in some way.

Changes this year holds: new house, new neighborhood, new school, new things to teach, new kids,  new perspective.

Life sure isn't easy but the Lord is always good and always calling us to greatness. I'm gonna say this again and by now you probably won't believe it, but I really am gonna be a better blogger!! Just wait and see.

I'll leave you with this:

give a hug today.