A daughter’s heart and a father’s understanding

“Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.” James 1:27

When Jasmine (we affectionately call her, “Jazzy”) came to our home five years ago – we did not know what to expect. Even back then, she had an incredible outward “elegance” and beauty, so it hid the personal struggles of insecurity, anger and hostility that raged against her soul.

When a young person is exposed to verbal, emotional and physical abuse like Jasmine was – often times, they do not know where to turn – this is where Christians can shine the love of Jesus Christ but sadly, do just the opposite.

As Jasmine began maturing in her daily personal walk with God, she began seeing that God was calling her to help others in the same manner she, herself, received provision – and her heart began to long for the children of Africa.

Stepping out in faith, Jasmine began raising financial support for her “calling”. The day she received the balance of the money required to get her to Uganda arrived, she broke down and wept openly.

Why? She was not weeping because she raised the several thousand dollars required to go. No. She wept because she was given permission by her Lord and Great God, Jesus Christ, to go and comfort other young women – women who needed to know about the love and forgiveness of sin offered to them by God.

Today, “Jazzy” is a vibrant Christian woman who seizes each and every opportunity to serve our Lord. She holds down a very demanding job in the medical field, leads worship in churches and women’s conferences and remains pure in both body and thought.

As her earthly father, I love seeing her smile everyday. I adore her style of personal worship and prayer time before our King, Lord and Savior. She brings sunshine to our home and is loved very much.

Jasmine needs to be back in Africa – amongst the people she loves. This is where her heart is. This is where her life is. I want her to stay with me of course but, she does not belong to me. She belongs to the Heavenly Father Himself. Africa is where He is calling her.

I suppose, the greatest gift I can give my dear “Jazzy”, is to tell others what God has laid on her heart, and to let go of her life. I was given the honor and privilege of guiding her for a short while – now, I must pass her off to God’s leading. He knows best what she needs and what she needs to do for Him.

I love you Jasmine. I am praying that God sends strangers to meet your financial needs so you can go to Africa where you belong.

Dad

IceRocket Tags: Africa , missions , gospel , Christianity , Bible , children , youth , AIDS , uganda , women , heavenly , Father , Jesus Christ