The World Race - Auston Copeland

Video Time

Sun, 17 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The one I hate writing

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

I've been meaning to ask you something...

...Oops... I meant to say, "I've been meaning to ask you FOR something."

Well... here it goes, I am really asking and really writing an entire blog about this. I even tried other ways of doing this and it didn't really work that well. But first there are a few things I need to get out before I ask for money:

1. If you're new here, feel free to ignore this. (If you are new please check out some of my posts such as the Boots Blog, Successful Saturday, or even some older ones from the past (while traveling the world on the World Race) like Women for Sale, or Let it Rock.

2. If you're old here, feel free to ignore this.

3. Please be aware that this is my least favorite part of being a missionary. (I hate the word missionary sometimes... we are all "missionaries" and because I am at a "leadership academy" some people don't see this as "missions." That's okay though, I will continue to meet people and tell them about Jesus as I live my life =)

4. Know that I wouldn't be writing this post at all if I didn't feel like this is something I was supposed to have written months ago but didn't, and now every time I try other ways of asking for money or writing about something else I feel a little guilty of asking or not asking directly. So now I can't put it off any longer.

5. I mentioned this not being enjoyable, right? But I really hope you understand deep, deep down that this is the woooooorst part of the whole gig for me. (who really likes to ask people for money and be dependent on others... especially when they have been able to provide for their own in the past? Yes, it sucks but God has used this to break me of a whole lot of myself)

*deep breath, here goes nothing*

And yes you know I am a missionary. Yes I attend a leadership school as well. Well, as you know a missionary sometimes does have to ask for money. As I mentioned earlier, it is as bad as it sounds (as bad as that time where I worked as a telemarketer). BUT I really do believe in it and in what I am doing.

And I truly believe that the people who support me financially should hold tightly to that "nice feeling" because the gifts that they give so that I can be here are changing peoples lives for the better. I know this to be true. I've seen it with my own eyes, I've read the emails and witnessed peoples lives changed throughout the world. It is real. And it's worthy of every dollar spent to make it happen.

All of that, to say this: I need financial help.

If we lived in the states I would have job to provide for myself. Can't really do this here for legal reasons (but I did try already). This is kinda what I need help with

1. G42 Leadership Academy

I am here in Spain under the leadership of this academy. I love it. It is teaching me incredible things but it does cost money. It is $1000 a month, which includes food, housing, and classes. Without it, I wouldn't be here and wouldn't be doing what God has asked.

2. The "B" word... BUDGET

I came here thinking that it might be like last year when I traveled the world for little to nothing... yeah right this is Europe. It is more expensive than the states.

3. Going home
I do eventually have to go home and soon I will have to buy an airline ticket back to Dallas. The cost of oil is going up and so is my ticket. Lame, I know.

So, I'm just gonna throw this out there and hope that we're all still friends afterward:

Would you please consider making a donation to me and this ministry here in Spain?

There's an easy to use, friendly looking PayPal option, right here! Or you can past this link http://www.g42leadershipacademy.org/donate Then you will want to click on the intern support button. This will take you to a new page that is a G42 secure donation portal through Pay Pal. From here there will be two options for those with a Paypal account and those without an account.

With PayPal account: input your donation amount and then hit update total. You then will be taken to a new page where it will ask you to sign into your PayPal account. You will then be taken to a new page and it will ask you to review your donation. On the line where it says your total donation to your left there will be a button to click that says name of intern. Click it and type in the desired intern name. Once you do that hit donate and you are all set.

Without PayPal account: input your donation amount and then hit update total. You will then be taken to a new page with your donation amount up top and at the bottom left of the page a statement that says "Don't have a PayPal account?" then there is a continue button next to the statement. Click it. You will be take to a new page where you can input your donation amount and the information of the credit/debit card you would like to donate from. After inputing your information click review donation and continue. You will then be taken to a new page and it will ask you to review your donation. On the line where it says your total donation to your left there will be a button to click that says name of intern. Click it and it will give you a box and you can type in the desired intern name. Once you do that hit donate and you are all set.

Or this Old thing called mail:
If you are mailing in your checks you can do so to this address and make sure you write the intern name in the memo line:

G42

P.o. Box 130611

Houston, TX 77219-0611

Last but not least, a HUG and a KISS for all those who have read this and to those who have given so much already. You really are awesome. Also to Jamie for inspiration of this blog. Check out her blog, her and her husband are awesome people doing some great things in Costa Rica.

Thanks again!

Much love,
Auston

The Boots Blog

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

    Are we not all on a journey? Are we not all headed somewhere... a new day, to something better, a new venture, a new job, a trip abroad, or possibly something more? No doubt we are going somewhere, but where and what for? Back in November, I started receiving a revelation about where I was heading and its purpose (you can read about it here). This revelation began as I started reading through the Old Testament with the purpose of understanding its significance today, if any. As I began to read about the exodus from Egypt, I noticed the theme of inheritance as they were on their journey to the promise land. Through the reading I began to understand that God had an inheritance for me as well (1 Peter 1:4).
   So with my inheritance in mind and leadership school approaching, I knew that I would be coming to Spain to start this journey. I believe that somewhere along the way I got a bit distracted of where I was going. I thought to myself many times that I was already there, I have already crossed the Jordan and started receiving my inheritance. About three weeks ago, I realized that I did not have it... I was going back to places from the past that I thought I had dealt with. To further the confirmation of this, we started a word study of Numbers 33 (the recounting of Israels journey) on the different camps where the people stayed. What I got from this was that the places that the people camped were not actually real places but places they named after what they were feeling. For example they camped at Marah, a place of bitterness, Haradah, a place of fear, as well as Kinroth Hattaavah, graves of lust. What you notice about the whole journey is that they lived by their circumstances, not by what God had promised them. They wondered in the desert for 40 years because they did not go and take possession of the land. It took 40 years of people learning to leave and get rid of all the things they were holding on to and realize that God had something for them, something better than fear, better than lust, better than bitterness. He had told them He was taking them into their inheritance but they were just not willing to let go. Countless miracles, signs and wonders and they still were not ready... He was waiting on them to fully walk into their inheritance.
   Today, Christ is in us (Colossians 1:27) and we have the same ability to walk into our inheritance as they did in the desert. Where are you camped out today? Are you still camped in places of fear, of lust, of bitterness? Or are you waiting on God to do all the work... they camped in places of palms and stations where they were just waiting. We have been given everything we need to walk forward across the Jordan and leave these camps behind. While they camped for 40 years, they celebrated Pentecost and Passover but were not able to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles because there was no harvest because they had no land!
   On Thursday, I decided that I was tired of wondering around from camp to camp and was ready to celebrate harvest. In Joshua, before they reached the promise land, God tells him that the new generation must be circumcised. They had to get rid of all the crap they had been holding onto- the circumcision of the heart. They were able to celebrate what God had done for their people through Passover and then the day after the manna ceased (Joshua 5:12) because they ate the fruit of the their land! They no longer needed the manna because they had what God had originally promised them... a land that they could work that would give its own harvest! They received their inheritance!

   And the commander of the Lords army said to Joshua, Take off your sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy. And Joshua did so. (Joshua 5:15)

     I was not wearing sandals to class but boots. So in front of class and now here for all to see, I have taken my boots off as a symbol of this transaction (see Ruth 4:7) that I am receiving my inheritance. I am no longer camping out but celebrating all that He has done! If I were to have gone to the worlds top literary school, I could not have ever dreamed or written a better journey than where God has already taken me and where He is continuing to take me.

On the Run to Madrid

Wed, 2 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Just wanted to give a quick update on this past week as I began my first week training. It was an awesome week and I found a new path to run on Saturdays that allows me to run along the beach and the across this awesome bridge (pictured right). Here is a look at my schedule:

Monday -4miles
Tuesday-Off
Wednesday- 5 miles
Thursday- 4 miles
Friday- Workout
Saturday- 6.5 miles
Sunday- Off

Total... 19.5 miles

Thank you all so much for supporting me on this half marathon and for my time here at G42. I am sill in need of sponsors for this run! Here are the ways you can help:
1. A one time pledge of any amount (click here)
2. Pledge a dollar amount by the km for the run (The race is 21.09km)
3. Pledge a dollar amount by the mile for the training- weekly
4. Donate towards entry fee, running shoes and running equipment, and travel expenses (email me at Copeland_A@yahoo.com for mailing address to send check)
5. Prays are much appreciated!

It's True... Committed to Madrid

Sun, 20 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

That is right everyone, the rumors are becoming reality. On April 3, 2011 I will join approximately 17,000 other people to be apart of the

11th Madrid Half Marathon!

Many of you who know me are thinking they possibly might have gotten the wrong blog update from the wrong Auston Copeland. No people, it is the truth! I have been trying to run since March of last year... It has been a love hate relationship that I have with running. Starting out last year I was barely able to run 15 minutes without thinking we needed to call an ambulance. As of now, it might not be too much better, but starting this week I am entering into training mode! That is right, cutting back on desserts and coke... and running mornings 5 days a week and fitness training in the afternoons! Now your probably wondering why I am telling you about this endeavor... it is because I need your help!
With about 4 months left here in Spain, at G42 Leadership Academy, I have $2,760 left to raise. So in the spirit of support raising I thought I would do something to make it interesting and fun! This is where you come in, I am looking for people to support me as I run! There are several ways to do this:

1. A one time pledge of any amount (click here)
2. Pledge a dollar amount by the km for the run (The race is 21.09km)
3. Pledge a dollar amount by the mile for the training (my watch times in miles & run anywhere from 12- 23 miles!)
4. Donate towards entry fee (23 euros), running shoes and running equipment, and travel expenses (email me at Copeland_A@yahoo.com for mailing address to send check)
5. Pray, because I need it!

If this is something you would like to do, or have questions, please email me at Copeland_A@yahoo.com. I will be blogging weekly about the training so you can follow me over the next month!

Much love,

Auston

Successful Saturday

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

     It was my fourth birthday and I remember it like it was yesterday. You think its impossible to remember that far back? Well I remember it because that is when I received my black doctors bag filled with all the essentials... a stethoscope, a thermometer, a few pill bottles, a whole new identity. I grew up with so many aspirations. I went from wanting to be that doctor, to a lawyer, to an international real estate agent, to a entrepreneur ... the list goes on and on. As a grew up and the professions changed, so did my reasons for them. It was no longer necessary to be these things because I was passionate about them but because that is what my family said would make the money and that is what my teachers said was successful. My aspiration became success and what I deemed success was making money. Is that really what success is?
   Fast forward 15 years from my doctor playing days to the completion of my freshman year of university. I thought I was on my way to being successful. I had a plan laid out to finish school with a business degree and to be rich. I was on my way. I had a great job with benefits, insurance, a 401K setup... all before age 19. It seemed that it was the right thing, this is what I wanted right? Yet something was missing. I couldnt place it, not quite yet. I was miserable. Everything that I thought I was supposed to be doing and everything I thought that was leading me to success was telling me something else.
   It was on a missions trip to Peru that I found what was missing. It was love. The look of all the children and families that had absolutely nothing, they had something I didnt. They had the love of God in them. They had joy admist their poverty. They had smiles when I had a frown. They had what I didnt have. I knew that I had to change. Success was not what I thought it was... I was ready to leave. I was ready to find it.
   There was a change in me. It was really great (for a short time). I knew that I needed God like these people. So I embarked on a journey that took me to the complete opposite of where I had been. Over the next three years, I studied Gods word, I gave up all the things that were bad, I gave my life to serving God. Somehow after a couple of years I realized I was miserable again. Success had become doing and building ministry... "was it enough?" was all I ever thought. I reached a breaking point.
   One year later, 18 years after my doctor days, I traveled the world and saw many things. I saw people all over the world looking... looking for something. Many had been down the same road I had been and many were on the road I was currently on. Over the year I realized that everyone was looking for some sort of love. So the previous three years of working and building were nothing in comparison to the love that God had not only for me but for the entire world. I was free.
   It was this Saturday that everything came into place. Where this journey of success came to play. My friends and I traveled to Guadalhorce, on the outskirts of Malaga, to talk to some prostitutes and given them some flowers and baked goods. It came to me in an instant. Something so simple. To love... thats all, its just that simple. I am made to love, to be love, to show love... all because He first loved us! Those girls on the streets needed to hear it, we all need to hear it... that is that we are loved. Success is knowing that you made a difference, even if its just a little. This will be forever called Successful Saturday.

Love Month

Mon, 7 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

    Today I woke up still feeling a little sick. So with my Sunday afternoon being free, I decided that staying in the cold house would not be an option and I headed down to beach to let the warm sun do its wonders to this cold. Although I was not healed from the sun, I did receive some pretty cool revelations about some things I have been thinking about the past couple of days.
   As I was walking down the beach with warm sand between my toes and the occasional cold tide hitting my feet, I was in search, and determined, of finding the perfect spot. You what I am talking about... the one with no screaming kids, less people, and no vendors offering you knockoffs. I settled down, despite the fact that I couldnt find my ideal spot, laid down my towel, put my Ipod on, and opened my book.
   As I was reading, I began to get a distracted by my thoughts and started thinking. These thoughts went something like this:
   I cant believe I am here. I am lying here with the Mediterranean Sea in front of me, the snow covered Sierra Nevada's to my left, and my tiny white village behind me. I started thinking about the worship we had the night before and how I fell asleep last night to the same picture that I had when I was worshiping... a massive amount of people altogether singing and worshiping God in the rain. As the rain fell, no one was running away but enjoying ever minute of it- it was a renewal for everyone.
   I then began thinking about Friday night. I remembered that just a few blocks from where I was lying I worked for the night. Somehow I ended up with a job passing out fliers (it was pretty bad so I decided to tell the man it wasnt worth it...) on the street in the cold night. It was an experience. I met a lot of people, two of which were prostitutes from Ghana, working right down the street from me. I talked to them as much as I could... they were busy trying to get customers and I was trying to pass out these darn fliers. They didnt want to be in Spain, they want to be home in Ghana, one of the girls said to me.
   So as I lay there in the sand, the verse that has been stuck in my head for the past two weeks seemed to tie all my thoughts together.

"WE LOVE BECAUSE HE FIRST LOVED US" (1 John 4:19)

That my friends is why I am here, to love. A simple verse that I have never really paid attention to before but gives me purpose in everything. That is to love these girls from Ghana, that is to love the kids yelling ridiculous slurs at them, to love the men that have taken advantage of them, and to love this world so much that my desire is to just love (worship) Him back, even in the rain, because it is His love that renews us each day.

Espaa- Learning to Take It In

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

     Hola mis amigos! It has been nearly two weeks since I landed in the Costa del Sol region of Spain. Every morning I wake up and think to myself, am I really here? Yes. Yes, I am here! I have been trying to put in words everything that has been going on since being here but I just havent found them. It has been a little overwhelming to say the least but I mean that in a good way.
   I am currently here in Mijas, Spain beginning to pursue this dream of serving the world. I have a small idea of what that will look like but as for now I am here learning everything I can while sitting under some pretty awesome leaders.
   In the last few classes we have discussed everything from purpose, to love, to missionary journeys, to building a dream, and to everything else in between. So as if Im not one to already be in a thousand places at once this has added a few more places to wonder. So with that being said, I am here in Mijas, loving every minute of it, being challenged, and ultimately I am learning some pretty cool things.
   Here is to the next 5 months and to the beginning of something greater than myself. Thank you all for taking your time to read, to pray, and support me financially. I am still not where I need to be with the finances so if you are looking for ways to support the Kingdom of God please visit this link. Gracis mis amigos for allowing me learn and take it all in!

Get it for 2011!

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

So I have a few remaining T-shirts that I am selling to finish the support raising for 2010! I have sizes M-XL available for $20. For $5 I can ship them directly to you! If you would like one please send me an email at Copeland_A@yahoo.com.

If the T-shirt is not your thing, and would like to support me for 2011, I can still use your help. G-42 is a non-profit organization, where your donations are tax deductible. I am incredibly grateful for the support you have provided in 2010 while serving on the World Race, and I am hopeful that you will continue to see value in the work God has called me to in Spain.

I would like to welcome you into this opportunity through supporting me in prayer and/or financially. My financial goal for 2011 is $6,000, which breaks down to $1000 per month. The options of one-time donations or monthly pledges are available. I currently am in need of supporters to commit to monthly donations, as indicated by the table below.

Amount Per Month	Supporters Needed	Total Per Month
$100	4	$400
$50	6	$300
$25	10	$250
$10	5	$50
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Monthly Total: $1,000

Supporting on a monthly basis not only assists me financially, but also provides an opportunity for you and me to build a relationship. Having the consistent support of people on a monthly basis is a huge encouragement to me and the ministry I'm doing with G42.

Of equal importance is prayer support. I am asking for people who will commit to pray for me regularly. I will send prayer partners a monthly update of specific prayer requests along the way. If you would like to commit to being a prayer partner, please contact me via e-mail at Copeland_A@yahoo.com. I ask that you consider continuing to support me in one of these ways. It means the world to me to know that people are committed to supporting me each month in prayer and financially. I would be honored to have any support that you are willing to give.

Please know that I am thankful for whatever you are able to do and I do not take any of it for granted. I am committed to a life of service and know that God will continue to use me to make an impact on those around me, including you. I appreciate your consideration of this letter and this opportunity that enables me to represent you as a servant to people around the world through G42. Thank you in advance and if interested in supporting me financially please visit the G42 website by clicking here.

The Way I Are

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

So how is it being back home? That is the number one question that I receive on a daily basis. It just kind of depends on the day how I will answer it. I dont think I really knew how I felt, for real, until today. Several things have attributed to the conclusion.
   First, I was at my local CVS making some cards, and this lady asked to see the final result. Well to give you a visual, its a year of merry memories that has a lot of pictures from this past year on it. I told her what I did and her response was something like this: wow, that must have been an awesome experience, are you going to go back to any of those countries? My response was sharing with her about my plan for Spain and for working in Asia and Eastern Europe one day. She said that was an ambitious plan. Not sure why, but the first thing that rolled off my tongue to her was we all have a plan. The look on her face gave me the impression that she didnt like that response... she also said plans change. The conversation ended because she walked away. I simply smiled to her as I walked out of the store.
   The second thing that happened, that showed me how I am feeling, was an e-mail that I sent to some friends on the race. I just started rambling in the e-mail, asking them about a thousand questions, many of them personal, and numerous other things. After the questions I typed out a sentence that read as you might can tell Im missing the race a little... its really weird being home. Not that I dont love it, but I really miss the community of the people on my team... people here dont ask, when you wake up, how your night was, or ask you about your devotions, they really dont care too much about what God is doing in your life, and people aren't really big on challenging you... I havent really thought about this at all... really, I promise! It just kinda came out.
   So the third thing that confirmed my true feelings about being home is this blog, by my awesome teammate, Annie Rose. You really should read it... its that good. But what I got from it, is that I am called to be a fighter, to fight against the things of this world. The blog then takes a complete 180 as she discusses her routine throughout the day. Where in her my day, did she I pick up the Word? So when God calls us to fight we are supposed to be prepared, right? Well, Christ called us to love, to love others, and know the love that He has for us. So amidst all the frustration of being home... I need to recognize more of His love, and love a little more.
   What does any of this have to do with how I feel about being at home? Well, for starters, everything. See the lady at CVS left me frustrated because it was almost as if she was telling me my plans were just a dream. She represents numerous people I have encountered since being at home... yes, it is my dream, Gods plan! I am perfectly okay with people questioning things... dont worry I do it too. I just hate seeing people believe that they cant reach their dream. The mentality of dreams being just dreams makes me want to shake someone (Thats a whole blog in itself!) Then the e-mail I sent confirmed everything... the lack of community and how I miss it, how I took it for granted this past year, and how vital it is for Christian living. Then this blog that sent me into a thousand directions... I know that I am there is a war to be fought and yet now that I am home... I honestly havent really prepared that much for it. Its not that people here do things wrong and I am appalled by the way they see things... its just I found something I really like and I want to stick with it (and share it with everyone!) and continue on this path of growth with others.
   I might be on a rambling tangent that doesnt makes sense. What I have learned with blogging is that sometimes you just have to put whats going through your head on paper (like a journal) and thats all! So this is it, this is how I feel, I have a hard time listening to people feel defeated, I miss my community, and I struggle with preparing myself for these situations that are apart this life we live. But i know that:

The Lord your God in your midst, the mighty one, will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing. Zephaniah 3:17

Next Step Q&A

Thu, 9 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

So I have had a lot of questions about what's next for me... so I thought I would a Q&A would help with some of the questions you might have.

1. What is "it?"

The "it" is G42 Leadership Academy, located in Mijas Spain.

2. What is the purpose of G42?

The purpose of G42 to is to raise up a generation of people who are committed in planting the Kingdom of God across the globe. It is a place where your vision comes to life with people behind you to support you and to hold you accountable to seeing your Kingdom dreams come true.

3. How long will you be here?

G42 is a 6 month program January through June.

4. What is your plan for G42?

In the most simple way of saying what I want to do is this: Grow the church through business by creating jobs for people in need where there is not a presence of a church.

5. Can you not do this in United States?

Yes I could, but there are several reasons why I have chosen Spain. First of all, g42 is a global organization with an international network. Because of my vision for starting businesses around the world and helping with church planting, it seems logical to start internationally. Mijas was chosen as the center for the school because of its location in Southern Spain as a central base for ministries across Europe, Africa, and beyond.

6. How can I help?

There are several ways in which you can help. First, as always, prayer...I'll take it always. Second, financial support. I am in need of a few people who are willing to make a support commitment of $100 or $200 per month. I am also looking for anyone who would like to make a one-time donation of $250, $500, or $1000. All of this can be done at http://www.g42leadershipacademy.org/donate and click on the "Intern Support" and decide if you would like to do a monthly or one time donation. Make sure to enter my full name Auston Copeland / January 2011 term. **All donations are tax deductible**

7. Are you crazy?

Yes, but I think you knew that already :)

A Post Race Dream

Fri, 3 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

     Okay, so it is not a dream... I am back in the USA! Honestly these last two weeks of being at home have been great! I didn't even jet lag! So with that being said the "transition" has been great and I have just been super busy catching up with family and friends. I stayed in New York for the night and then took a bus to Boston to see my best friend Michael and his wife Aimee... this was such a great thing! They were the last people I saw in the US (because I was at their wedding!) and the first people I saw when coming back! I flew home to DFW just in time for Thanksgiving and ran the Turkey-Trot with my cousins and ate an amazing meal with my great family! I also had this great idea that I would work Black Friday, and that Saturday, at the mall for some quick cash. Now that is a great transition into the states after being gone for a year! Sike! I thought I would be able to rest after Thanksgiving but instead went to the doctor, traveled to East Texas to visit my grandmother, and then drove to Missouri to speak at my Alma mater, Baptist Bible College, this past Thursday. So maybe next week I can take a break.
     So here it is, the answer you have all been waiting for... THE NEXT STEP! Starting in January, I will be moving to Mijas, Spain to attend a 6 month internship at a leadership academy. Your first thought is that I'm crazy for leaving again so soon and how the heck are you paying for this. Here is why- I have been praying for about 3 years for a discipleship/mentorship person and in month 3, God answered. One of the most influential men I have ever known and grown to love this year, Dave Fredriksz, asked to be that person. So for the past 6 months I have been praying about this and waying the options. In Spain I will receive discipleship from an amazing group of people who have a call on their life to raise up leaders around the world for the purpose of bringing Kingdom.
     Financially this makes no sense, but then again neither did this year, but I know that God will provide. So with that being said, I still need your prayers. Prayers for my family and friends whom I have been away from all year, prayers for God's directions and plans for my time in Spain, and prayers for finances.
     To find out more about it you can visit the G42 website here. If you would like to make a donation or support me monthly please visit the site same G42 website.

"Let Him have all your worries and cares, for He is always thinking about you and watching everything that concerns you."1 Peter 5:7

Something New

Mon, 8 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

(A bit on what God has taught me; insight to my thoughts, my journal, and my mind)

    It is evident that God has a message for me, as He does for everyone. Sometimes it comes to you in the night, or after reading the Word, maybe its a gradual thing that you learn from lifes circumstances... whatever it may be, and whenever its timing- you just know when its Him. If I havent lost you already I want to share exactly what God has been showing me.
    More than anything else that I have learned this year is that God provides and cares for us. So as I look back, not only through this year, but my life as a whole, God has provided and taken care of me. God has said, Auston Copeland, I am your God, I am your Father, and I love you. So as the pieces are being put together, I have learned that God loves me as His child. A father wants what is best for their child and that means going to the extreme to make sure they have what they need in order to survive and know that they are loved; that is exactly what God has done for me.
    Last month, I packed up my belongings, as I do every month, and proceeded to travel to our next ministry location- Romania. However, this month already took on a new look as I left my loving team in order to serve with another team, Team Se7en. So why would I leave my loving team and become apart of another team just for only one month, especially when it is so close to the end? Well, again I felt that God wanted something from me, He wanted me to fight on behalf of another brother- Tyler. I had this dream where I was standing next to Tyler and we were both dressed in army fatigues as soldiers. It became obvious to me that I was to fight with Tyler. He had done the same for me several months back in Asia and Africa and I knew that there was a purpose in this.
    The month started off like any other month on the race except for the fact that I had never ending hot showers and free unlimited wi-fi that allowed for me to keep in contact with my team. So after a few days, I received an e-mail from my teammate Kate and this is something that she sent to me:

I pray in the name and power of Jesus Christ and ask you, LORD, to fill Auston with the knowledge of Your will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. I pray this in order that Auston may live a life worthy of You and may please You in every way: Let Auston bear fruit in every good work, Let Auston grow in the knowledge of God, Let him be strengthened with all power according to Your glorious might so that he may have great endurance and patience, and will joyfully give thanks to You, who has qualified Auston to share in the inheritance of the saints in the Kingdom of light.
Colossians 1:9-12

So Kate prayed this for me and it just so happened that two days prior I started reading the book of Joshua and where God began showing me my inheritance. It really began before the world was created, before my parents knew my name, before I took my first steps, and before I even knew Him. All the things that life has brought so far are apart of my inheritance, my story. In the Philippines, I realized that God is big enough to do anything and therefor He can use all of me for His Kingdom, even the ugly stuff, and lead me into my promise land. In Joshua chapter one, God reminds him that He has been with them and that they are going to receive their promise land, their inheritance, that was promised to Moses. I learned that God fights for His people and that HE FIGHTS FOR ME!

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened; and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your god is with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9)

God has given each of us a promise land, He tells us that He is with us. As Joshua takes the people across the Jordan, God tells Joshua to take 12 stones from the river as a remembrance. These stones are to represent what happened, a remembrance to future generations that God was in their midst. He is in our midst now. What am I doing to set up for future generations to remember, to preserve the inheritance given to me?

Behold I have allotted to you as an inheritance for your tribes those nations that remain, along with all the nations that I have already cut off, from the Jordan to the Great Sea in the west. The Lord your God will push them back before you and drive them out of your sight. And you shall possess their land, just as the Lord your God promised you. (Joshua 23:4-5)

So God has told us that we have an inheritance, that He has pushed and driven out the other nations, but WE MUST TAKE POSSESSION. It requires us to move, to act, and to take up our freedom that He has given us. Spending the month with Tyler, God showed me my ability to fight for others. Through His Word, God showed me that I have an inheritance. As I read about God giving Joshua His inheritance, I asked God for mine.
This is just the beginning of a life walking into what God has set before me, what He has promised. My inheritance is to take nations into a land of freedom, to grow the church by growing its people. A life that is of service to Him. Who knows what that will look like, I'm sure Joshua didn't either. I do know however that Joshua remained faithful until his death where he was buried in his inheritance (Joshua 24:30).

Lord, you have given me life and life to live abundantly and I ask that you take me into my inheritance. Use me for your purpose and continue to show me more of it. There is still much to be done, more of your Kingdom to be brought. You were not finished with your people, just as you are not finished with me. Thank you for fighting for me.

Romania, you are legit!

Fri, 5 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

So this is a picture summary of my month in Romania... one of my favorites of the year.

Part IV of our 54 hour train ride to Romania:

Welcome to Caminul Felix- "Happy Home" where we spent our month of ministry.

Spending the month with Team Se7en: burgers for dinner!

Part of ministry for the month was building these houses for Habitat for Humanity.

The girls working hard... for me!

Having a great time with my new friends.

Our new amazing friends, Natalie and Serena, from the UK. These girls are awesome; left home to bring love the love of Christ to Romania.

Weekend excursion to Budapest, Hungary.

Famous Chain Bridge and Parliament.

After many summer months, we found fall in Budapest!

Just hanging out in the castle district on Fisherman's Bastion.

St. Stephen's Basilica, picture says enough.

A trip to visit the local gypsies...

Last day of work...success!

Thank you for letting me experience this amazing month!

Caminul Felix (Happy Home)

Sat, 30 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT

     As we wrap up our second to last month here in Oradea, Romania, it is hard to even describe what is going on here. It is just so awesome what all God is doing here in the western part of Romania, and I dont want to leave! This month I decided to spend some time with Team Se7en and it happened to be our month where we sought out a ministry to partner with. I am not sure there could have been anything better. So after telling you how great it is let me tell you about our month.
     Caminul Felix (translates, Happy Home) is a community of families that believe that providing abandoned and neglected children a home and a family is the start to life. This is not just a foster care community or an orphanage, its a place of like minded families who take in and include these children to be a part of their family. It is not just for a short amount of time or for a transition, it is a lifelong commitment. It is the family model that has been put into place since this organization started in 1990. They are seeing the results now... children have grown into adults, graduated from college, gotten married, and are having children of their own. These life stages, more than likely, would have never been achieved if these children would have grown up where they were or in a government system. It is amazing to see how providing a family, the way God talks about, gives so much joy on so many levels.
     So what did we do, you ask? Well, as I mentioned earlier, there are many of the first generation that have gone out and started their own families. Many of them are struggling to afford a home to raise their children. In Romania, even though they have recently joined the European Union, there is still a huge gap between the rich and poor- not much of a middle class. So Caminul Felix saw the need and struggle of these new families and decided to do something about it. They have partnered with Habitat for Humanity to build homes at a cost where they can get a start! So this month I became a lot of things- basically I am a jack of all trades! We stuccoed a house, laid a foundation for a house, built concrete sidewalks, shoveled many rocks, and much more. It was great to be able to see what our work was going towards.
     After our mornings of construction we had some time to eat and rest before we headed into the homes where we got to hang out with some pretty amazing kids. One thing is for sure is that I have played more soccer this year than I have in my entire life. Just being able to hangout, talk, play soccer, or whatever is the best way in getting to know people. I am forever thankful for my time here at Caminul Felix. If you are interested in supporting this organization or would like to know more about it, check out their web site. There is plenty of work to do here so if you are a home-builder, a church group, someone who wants to help out on the farm, work in their flower shop, or someone just looking to help, just go!
     Please remember to keep us in your prayers, we have exactly 21 days left before our return home! Crazy to think. Also I am still in need of about $500 dollars to finish this year out fully supported, so pray that comes in. It has been such an amazing year and I can't thank you all enough for being apart of it- you rock!

Much love,

Auston

Romanian Chocolate

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Hello from Oradea, Romania!

   This month is almost over and it sure has been a great one! And it is getting down to the time where we are getting ready to head into our last month of ministry. I cant believe that the year is almost over! I want to say it again, thank you everyone who has helped me get this far. Please read my previous blog to see all that God has done this year with your help!
     So, here is my financial update. As of right now, I still need $758 to be fully funded. This is such an amazing thing to see how God has provided this entire year. More than I could have ever imagined. So with less than 4 weeks left on this amazing journey I would ask you to pray that these last dollars would come in and that my focus would be for our next country, Moldova.
     Again, thank you all so much. I can not wait to see all you- family, friends, fellow blog viewers! Only 4 weeks and then Ill be back to the great state of Texas! So watch out for the next few blogs to see what is to come!

Much love,
Auston

PS- Romanian chocolate is not always what you think it is! We have been jipped 3 times!

Who Am I Living For

Sat, 16 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT

I stumbled across a blog the other day and there was post about Katy Perry. If you do not know who Katy Perry is then you probably are not listening to Top Ten or watching MTV. So why am I writing about her you ask? Well, for starters I think sometimes I can relate to her, and I am sure there are many of you out there too who can as well. I get these moments where I struggle and think to myself is IT worth it? Well I know I am living for Jesus but I have my valleys of uncertainty at times. Maybe Katy will use that light that is inside her.

Who Am I Living For by Katy Perry

I can feel a phoenix inside of me
As I march alone to a different beat
Slowly swallowing down my fear, yeah yeah

I am ready for the road less traveled
Suiting up for my crowning battle
This test is my own cross to bear
But I will get there

Its never easy to be chosen, never easy to be called
Standing on the front line when the bombs start to fall
I can see the heavens but I still hear the flames
Calling out my name

I can see the writing on the wall
I cant ignore this war
At the end of it all
Who am I living for?

I can feel this light thats inside of me
Growing fast into a bolt of lightning
I know one spark will shock the world, yeah yeah

So I pray for a favor like Esther
I need your strength to handle the pressure
I know there will be sacrifice
But thats the price

Its never easy to be chosen, never easy to be called
Standing on the front line when the bombs start to fall
I can see the heavens but I still hear the flames
Calling out my name

I can see the writing on the wall
I cant ignore this war
At the end of it all
Who am I living for?

At the end, at the end
Who am I living for?
At the end, at the end
Who am I living for?

Heavy is the head that wears the crown
Dont let the greatness get you down
Heavy is the head that wears the crown
Dont let the greatness get you down

I can see the writing on the wall
I cant ignore this war
At the end of it all
Who am I living for?

At the end, at the end
Who am I living for?
At the end, at the end
Who am I living for?

Change Is...

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT

     Today marks the one year anniversary of training camp for the world race. Where has the time gone? Who and What all has changed? Am I ready to go home? What is next? What have I learned? These are a few of the questions that I ask myself often or others want to know. I will try to write my next few blogs to answer them each. But seriously to think that a year has gone by is almost completely ridiculous except when I look back at each month and see all that went on.
     First and foremost, I want to thank each and every person who has read my blogs, prayed for me, supported me financially, and sent words of encouragement. This year could not have happened without any of you. So thank you from the bottom of my heart for joining me on this epic journey called the World Race.
     Change. This is something that is hard to measure and can differ from one person to the next. When I look back on this year, I know I have changed. There are so many aspects that change can come from, both good and bad. This year I can confidently say to you all that my life has changed for the good. I also want you to know that you have changed as well. Everyone that I mentioned earlier,yes you! This year you have been apart of a change in this world. Here is how you did it:

In New Zealand, you helped share Christ with teens and young boys and camps. Because of this, Heaven is a little BIGGER.

In Australia, you helped out a church in need and became friends with teens in the aboriginal community. Because of this, the church is growing and teens are breaking generational bonds of alcoholism and not knowing they are LOVED.

In the Philippines, you shared Christ in villages and taught them basic health and nutrition for their families. Because of this, people now have hope not only for their salvation but that they and their families will live LONGER and HEALTHIER.

In Malaysia, you shared the love of Christ with women who had been sold into marriage and loved on children in the name of Christ who were mentally handicapped. Because of this, some women understand their VALUE and WORTH.

In Thailand, you helped prepare a home and invested in the girls who live there that were at risk for being sold into the sex slave industry. Because of this, the probability that these girls will be sex slaves is almost ZERO!

In Kenya and Tanzania, you helped communities know more about Christ by sharing with them and praying for them. Because of this, faith has been RESTORED to many and the KINGDOM OF GOD grew a little bigger.

In Uganda, you helped build a playground for orphaned children. Because of this, children can play and just be kids!

In the Ukraine, you let street children that they are loved and have a purpose. Because of this,there is HOPE that they dont have to live on the street.

In Romania, you are helping build houses and building relationships with orphaned children. Because of this, families have homes they can afford, and children can be ENCOURAGED!

What you have done has not gone unnoticed. You were just as part of this as I was and I would have never been able to do this without you. When you pray, when you give, when you send someone encouragement... its more than that. It is something that changes peoples lives. It is a change in the kingdom of God. God has changed me this year and He has used you to be apart of that change. I now have a vision to see change come to everyone in this world- to show people the love of God and that His love is for them.
I have only two months left on this race, but in order to finish I am still in need of further investment. I am in need of $830 dollars to be fully funded. Again, I cannot thank you enough for what you have already done and as I said earlier it is not unnoticed. If you want to become apart of this change in the world or would like to invest further for me to finish please click the support link to help me meet my final goal of $830 this month.

Thank you all for helping be apart of this change in the world.

Much love,
Auston

Represent your @!$*#

Tue, 5 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Have your attention? What if we really did represent our Jesus, what would that look like? Are we even suppose to? The other night I caught a glimpse of what I think it might look like... and it even felt right too. This month we have had the opportunity to serve at a club for kids who live on the street. Basically we just go, hang out, and eat with them. It seems so small but it has been great to just be friends with them.

So back to the other night.... my teammate Sarah had this great idea that she wanted to have a FEAST in the park and invite these kids and all the homeless people around. The idea came from Luke 14 where it says ... but when you give a feast, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you...

So we got together and we put together a feast! There were sandwiches, chips, fruit, juice, cookies, bread, and whole lot of people! At first the idea just wasnt in me... I really didnt want to go and just hope for people to show up. Well we went out the previous night and handed out bags of food and an invitation to our picnic in the park! So when we started people just came walking up and throughout the day people came and we went out and just handed out food. The excitement on the faces of these people was INSANE! This is what it means to serve. This is what it means to reach the least of these. This is what it means to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Now if I could figure out how to do this everyday things might just start changing. I think this relates to that die to self that we read about in Luke... if anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.

Paul Young, author of The Shack, writes in a unique way about dying to self. He says: My (Jesus) life was not meant to be an example to copy. Being my follower is not trying to be like Jesus, it means your independence is killed. I came to give you life, real life, my life. We will come and live our life inside you, so that you begin to see with our eyes, and hear with our ears, and touch with our hands, and think like we do (151). For whatever it is worth I think I understand a little more and excited to represent Him in every area.

Life is Calling

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

I am currently writing about the fact that I have nothing to write about. It is not that I am not doing anything or that God is not speaking. How do you put into words everything that goes on in day, much less a week, or even a month? In the last three weeks, I have left Uganda, traveled to Kenya, spent one week in Ireland, came to the Ukraine, and now settled in a flat in Odessa. This is only the traveling part, I mean there is the whole concept of what we did in each of the places, the things I have done, the spiritual aspect of ministry and what God is teaching me, my responses to these things or the lack of them etc. A lot can happen in three weeks that is for darn sure!

So now that I am out of Africa and with semi-stable internet, there is no excuse for not posting more about what is going on! So here it is- loud and clear and for all to read...I am well and doing great! There have been some ups and downs these last few weeks but what I have learned is that this is good for growth. Yes, a little lame, but its legit.

I left Uganda on a high. In my journal I called Uganda my redemption month. Africa was not exactly what I thought it was going to be and as the saying goes, the third time is the charm. Uganda became my charm for Africa. We had an awesome time as a team as well as with our ministry. Things started slowly but we found a way to make ourselves useful and helped build and paint a playground for a children's home (Please visit the Potters Village web site at http://pottersvillage.org.uk/ and check out this great ministry). On our last day in Kisoro, Uganda we found out that our week long camp that we were headed to in Kampala had been canceled. Alright God, what is going on? Well what we didnt realize was how much we needed a rest. Here and there we have taken a day but never have we had more than two or three days time. It was much needed, thank you God!

From Uganda we traveled back to Nairobi, Kenya for the fourth time. This was supposed to be a day and a half but because our bus was 7 hours late we had only time to rest and get last minute African souvenirs before our 2AM flight to Ireland via Turkey. Our flight from Istanbul was overbooked so we left a few lucky ones behind and arrived in the nice green country of Ireland! There were 5 squads and many alumni here for a The Awakening conference. This was a three day conference to awaken our hearts, meet other racers, worship, and get revived. I loved it but had a hard time with Ireland. This is the first time on the race that it reminded me of home. It was almost as if God was preparing for what home might look like in a few months. I learned more than anything this week that I have to continue seeking Him even when things are good and bad and even when you feel you are being pushed in a thousand directions! When I think I have finally gotten it (whatever it may be) I can fall quickly! Good thing God is always there picking me up and wiping away the dirt from my knees.

The week of Ireland flew by and then we headed off to Kiev, Ukraine. We had a nights rest before our 9 hour train ride to Odessa then next day. This month we are working with street children and helping out with english classes. So far so good! The things that I am working on right now and need prayer about are post race plans, learning to enjoy these last few months with my amazing family, last minute finances (still about $1000 needed before heading home), and a ministry for next month. Thank you all for your continued support as well as your prayers!

Much love,

Auston

Family Business

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

    As you can imagine life on the race can get a little blah (just kidding!!). There are things that we do that may not make sense but break the monotony that sometimes can occur. Many of these crazy antics begin with what we call family time. As we are away from our families, the people that we live life with have become our family and thus we take time each week to get together and do something. Well this month so far we have celebrated the 4th of July, Christmas in July, and my birthday!
   The 4th of July was celebrated with everyone together roasting hot dogs (lucky find at the international store!) and eating some local chips. There were no fireworks to be found but instead we made a bang by singing the National Anthem and God Bless America.   Overall it was a great night that made up for many of us not being at home for our favorite time of the year.
    Christmas in July was something that several of us decided to put together after hearing that people were singing Christmas music to remind them of home. It also helped that Eryn and I just happened to see a Christmas tree sitting behind the T.V. at our contacts house. Everyone was required to wear Christmas colors. We had stockings hung by a fire, presents under the tree, and ice cream to make us think of snow. We played Chinese Christmas and had some pretty cool gifts... everything from an Obama stocking hat to a snickers bar. You only wish you were hear for this.
   We were not sure where we would be for my birthday (traveling to Uganda time) so we decided to go celebrate a day earlier. My team allowed me to chose a restaurant in Nairobi that we could all eat at! I decided on a local Ethiopian eatery. It was awesome! I have such an awesome team!

The next day we actually had some team changes. I had to say goodbye to Caley (it was a great 7 months!) but welcomed John Smith and Caitlin Parker! Our new team is legit so here is one large photo of us all taken at Mgahinga National Park, Uganda. The mountain behind us touches three countries-- Uganda, Rwanda, and the D.R.C. Several of us are going to attempt to climb this next week!

A little team outing to the D.R.C.

The Time Is Now

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

   Sometimes as Christians we have these desires and these so called aspirations of what we desire to become more and more like Christ. Is there anything wrong with these ideas? No, but what is our motivation for it? Is it really what we mean or something we pray because we need a filler for our Christian prayer. Im not talking to anyone but myself here.
   Lately I have been asking God for some new things... a new direction in my prayers. I have gotten to a point where I thought I needed something new from God. Well, I always want something new but again I found myself asking for something that I am not quite sure I could handle.Not really sure how I got here-- that seems to be pretty common thing for me this year. I have had a lot of time lately to read this year too and some of the great things that I am learning are coming from these books. One of the common denominators for the last 3 books that I have read is to love others as Christ would. Yes, I know, it shouldn't take 3 books to tell you this-- just one. Well I guess it took several people to have drive this point home to me. So with this on my mind, maybe not my heart yet, I have been praying to love people in a way that I have never loved before. I asked God to give me compassion for those that are considered less, to see people with the eyes of Christ, to hear their cries, and just simply love them.
   Well on this particular Sunday morning, God started answering my prayers in two ways. First I am ashamed that I had to learn that maybe I am just not ready or to selfish or to prideful to accept what I asked for. Our team just started our second service of the day-- hour 2 of 4. This second service was not like the first by any means... not in our language, power failure, and extremely crowded and a little smelly. Well they gave us an interpreter for each row and I had an awesome guy who did a great job. For some reason, probably related to the selfishness or pride mentioned earlier, I started to have a grudge on this man. You see, he entered my bubble, no he tore it down like he had never heard of it! So with a foot of wide open pew space to his right and me cramped up next to my teammate to my left and with his legs and face right next to mine... I lost it (mainly because he created body sweat on me). I didnt have a flat out breakdown in front of hundreds but mentally I was thinking everything but nice things about him and this situation. I was not seeing this guy with the eyes of Christ by any means. Auston, what are you doing?! I let something get to me, something that this guy has never heard of culturally, and I let that turn into the complete opposite of what I asked God for.
   A little redemption came not too long after these thoughts. The thoughts and everything negative that I was feeling actually left as I saw something I had never seem before. This particular Sunday that we happened to be a part of was Harvest Sunday. I have heard numerous sermons preached on the topic of Harvesting-- the correlation between an actual harvest and that of harvesting souls. Well what was different about this one you might ask? Well for starters I saw people actually giving their first fruits. People actually came to church with baskets of beans, soy, shorgum, and millet. These people got it and I saw it firsthand. They had a raw truth that they followed and a raw desire to give God their first. This is love and by no means an obligation type. It did not end here... there was singing and rejoicing in a way that I have never seen. This was a singing that had compassion and was just plain simple- a simple love to their Father. Im not really sure how this is going to end because it is still going on but I just wanted to share a little with you about what God is doing on this side of the world.

I would walk 5000 miles...

Wed, 7 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

     So after a month and Kenya we are now on our 7th month in Iringa, Tanzania! It is hard to believe that we have been out for this long-- time is flying! Internet is not the best at all- I spent 30 min this morning trying to send one email... so friends and family try and not expect any calls for some time!
     To recap the month of Kenya, we stayed in
Kitale with a pastor and his family. They are amazing hard working people who loved having us! We basically spent most of the week hiking through corn fields visiting families. We went to several schools and were able to share with all the students about who we were and what we are about. We got to spend a lot of time learning how to do things the African way- fetching water, cooking, learning how to make Chapati etc.
     The month came and went pretty fast even though the pace of life was really slow. We had several days to try and recuperate in Nairobi. It was nice and needed because the ride to Tanzania sucked the life out of me! Our first leg, Nairobi to Dar es Salaam, was 18 hours on a very bumpy "road." There was probably about a half pound of dust one our bodies that seeped in somehow. After a quick shower and a 2 hour nap we left Dar at 5AM and headed to Iringa- another 7 hours of bumpy "road."
     We have settled with Pastor Chacha and his family outside of the city. The set up is very nice. We are sharing a house with team Imago Dei and we are having a good time thus far. We are helping around his house with some work as well as going to some orphanages and house visits. We have also volunteered to help at a local cafe, Neema, and craft shop that gives work to the disabled and deaf.
                                                                      Baby powder: how to take the grease out w/o shower
     I want to thank you all for your prayers and support. Africa has not been the easiest (Malaria is not that fun!) and we have about 2 months left. Pray for our ministry as well as our teams- sickness and homesickness are hanging around. I am still in need of a little bit of support to be fully supported so anything is much appreciated!

Team Umoja! We were delighted to have Maria Krump, from Real Life, spend the entire month with us!

Oh Africa

Sat, 12 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

     This will be a quick update due to the time limitations of our internet availability. Well I have made it to Africa safe and sound! The idea of what Africa would be like is nothing at all what it was made out to be in my head. I thought this country would be like a desert with the occasional African tree in the distance. However it is the opposite... it is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. The village of Liyavo that we are staying in is on the outskirts of Kitale, Kenya. Each night we watch the sun set behind Mt. Elgon where Uganda lies on the other side. All around us are lavish green corn fields and cow pastures. The roads here are made more use by the cows than cars. As I rode into to town today on a motor bike children started chanting Muzgo (meaning white person).
     Although it has only been a week, it seems like a month. The pace of life is much more drastic than which we are use to. Our mornings begin around 6 when all the farm animals decide that they need to disturb our sleep. We have our morning tea around 9AM and then head out into to the village to pray and tell people our purpose. Lunch takes place around 2 PM and then out to the local schools to talk to students about Christ. We arrive back at our homestead around 5 or 6 and try and help the family with some of the chores-- cooking or fetching water from the well. It takes 3 women all day just to keep up with cleaning and meals. Everything is made from scratch and cooked over a small charcoal burning fire. Yesterday was very difficult. I went with several people to get the water at the well. It was about a 10 minute walk and when we got there it was just a hole in the ground where we used an old oil container tied to a rope to get the water. As a carried a 20 liter jug of water on my shoulder (as they do everyday) I just realized how fortunate we are. If this was not enough, when I stopped for a break, one of the guys asked me how in America we get our water. How do you explain this? God is showing me so much about how much I am blessed.
     Please pray for my team and I as we continue ministering here. We do not have internet so contacting people will be very limited as we only go to town once a week. Please pray for my finances as well - my finale deadline is at the end of this month. I still need to raise $2,700 to continue for the rest of the year. God has brought me this far and I am trusting in Him that He will provide. Thank you all for all your prayers!

Much love,
Auston

Remember...

Sat, 29 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

     It is that time of month where we say our goodbyes and prepare for a new month of ministry. I want to be honest with everyone who reads these blogs (not that the others have not) and tell you about this month. Many might have noticed the lack of updates for the month. Well it wasnt planned but there were several reasons.
   First, we have been working five days a week doing manual labor-- everything from building fences, digging trenches, clearing brush, and even fighting fires. This has been one of the most productive times that I have seen. Because all the guys are together this month we have been worked and the last thing I want is to write about work! Ha ha! Let me just say that it has been well worth it- ANYTHING for Remember Nhu is worth it! Because of the work the only other thing I would have to tell you brings me to the second reason I havent been writing- the girls of Remember Nhu.
   I have no idea how to convey in words, or even pictures, the people we have been working with. Remember Nhu is a phenomenal organization that exists to prevent young girls from entering into the sex industry. These girls have stolen my heart. The stories that these girls hold are enough to fill an ocean with tears. To know that one girl is here simply because she is not wanted by her family... not because they cant afford to take care of her (a dad who is a successful businessman and a mother who is a nurse) it is because they just dont want her kills me. To know that there are sisters here that have loving mothers and fathers and brothers and sisters and they had to leave because there is just not enough money to take care of their basic needs kills me To know that these girls would more than likely have been sold to a brothel if Remember Nhu did not exist kills me. Well last night we said our goodbyes to all the girls and it killed me. I do not really have much to say except that God is doing a work so big in the lives of these girls and I am so very thankful to have been a part of this for a short month. We might never understand the injustice that is in this world and it may kill me every time I see it firsthand but I push forward knowing that God has control. This is why I am here.

Sex and Smiles

Tue, 18 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

     Thailand is known as the Land of Smiles. This statement is defiantly true from the moment you step off the plane. Everyone will graciously bow, smile, and say sawadee krap (hello). Everyone is overly generous when eating out at the local food stalls or trying to help you find directions to the mall.
Underneath all the smiles and facades are generations of pain and hurt.   In some cases as young as six years old, girls are forced into an industry that sells their innocence-- largely due to the extreme poverty of their families. So for millions of families they have a decision to make- save their family by selling their daughter (and some cases sons) or let the entire family starve. I would like to say that the latter is true but its not.
     Walking down the streets in Bangkok, where we were earlier this month, or in the streets of Chiang Mai will show the faces of hundreds of young women being escorted by older western men. There are thousands of statistics that report on the numbers of men who come to Thailand to solicit sex, numerous statistics on how many girls are in the industry, and countless other numbers surrounding these issues. Well the last two weeks I have been struggling with all these numbers, these issues that are overlooked by society, and just outright disgusted with these men.
     So a lot changed in two weeks. God has been teaching me more and more on forgiveness as well as thankfulness. Starting with forgiveness-- God has forgiven me so He can forgive them. Yes, forgive the men that are buying sex with these girls. Forgive the families that sold their child. Forgive the owners of the brothels. Forgiveness is for EVERYONE.

"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ, God forgave you." (Ephesians 4:32)

     Learning to give thanks is something that we have been talking about as a group lately. 1 Thess. 5 talks about giving thanks in all situations. Well how do you suppose we give thanks in this situation? Well for starters, I am rejoicing that there are people trying to prevent girls from getting to this point, I am thankful that God restores and redeems, I am thankful that God has brought me here to see this first hand, I am thankful that I can pray for them, I am thankful for those that have left the industry, and I am thankful that God is in control.

Sometimes I write these blogs just to write but I am asking you to pray for these girls and this country. Here are some specific things that you can pray about:

-Pray for knowledge to those who believe that if you have HIV and have sex with a virgin, then you will be cured.
-Pray for the villages where these girls come from-- pray for jobs and other forms of income so prostitution is no longer an option.
-Pray for the girls that are involved in the industry- pray that they would find a way out, pray that they would find a job to supplement the money needed to send to their families, pray for an indescribable change in their hearts.
-Pray for the churches and organizations that are running prevention and awareness campaigns, and those that are going into the brothels.
-Pray that there would only smiles

I Love You Forever

Sat, 8 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Here is a little video that we put together on behalf of our moms. Thank you mom for the last 22 years of raising me! Your the best!

Malaysia- A brief Overview

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Some of Our Awesome Team

On a typical week, as long as I have an internet connection, I am asked by friends and family what I do. As for being on the Race, I believe that this is one of the hardest questions to answer. Today I was expecting this question again but instead I was asked in one sentence tell me what is going on. Are you kidding, what kind of question is that? This defiantly took a few moments to think about... really can someone sum up everything for the past four months in one sentence?
Well in a rush to answer this question, I responded that God is doing things bigger than I could have ever imagined. I think that about sums it up. I mean, really we are only vessels for Gods work. I have been blessed to be apart of some of things that I just never knew existed. So not to diminish Gods work and give Him all the necessary credit, here are a few things that have been going on this month...

Special needs schools:

Ray of Hope and SSMC, are two special needs schools that we have volunteered at. I absolutely love both these places. A typical day is just going into a classroom and helping the teacher teach or just sitting with a kid. Not only do we get to be with these amazing kids that are over excited to see us but we get to build relationships with the teachers. We are in a country where we were told that we could not openly discuss/ witness to a Malay so building relationships is key to building trust. Our last week was spent working with Bethany home and it was one of the best experiences yet. I highly recommend supporting this home or even coming to volunteer. They exist to give kids a chance to learn and live in society all done in love, its amazing!

Vietnamese Church:

Our amazing contact got us connected with a church that reaches out to the Vietnamese population. On several occasions we were able to share our stories, preach, and even act out some skits for them. Many of those that are leaders for worship and involved in leadership stay with us on the weekends. We were able to eat with them and get to know many of these amazing people and their stories. Most have come to Malaysia looking for better work and better opportunities. So many of them have been swindled into bad working conditions and many are barely making it. I am defiantly learning more on how to speak in public!

Meet Lee:

   One night I had our friend Mei tell me that there would be a man staying with us. He has been in Malaysia for about 3 weeks taking care of his 27 year old daughter. Lee is his daughter who came to Malaysia, like many of the other 5 million Vietnamese, looking for better opportunity. While working one day Lee collapsed and was taken to the hospital. The doctors concluded that she had a stroke and was paralyzed on half of her body, unable to move, talk, or function.
   Several from our team went to the hospital to pray for her. While we were there we found out that she had a fever and would not be able to undergo her scheduled surgery.   Before this moment I have always been one to not really believe that God can heal. This moment was different from any other because I prayed and asked God to heal her and I truly believed He would. He did not. I walked away that night confused as why God did not heal her. I just didnt understand why she could not be healed because there were so many people that were watching, so many Malays, so many Hindus, and so many Buddhists that could see this as a testament to the name of Jesus.
   The next day a few of us went back to pray again and found out that her fever had dropped a little. As we were asking questions a group of Malay women came and started asking lots of questions about if she had be healed. We surrounded her and began praying. (disclaimer- I am about to share something that is completely new to me and something that I have never done and in fact never thought should be done) As I was praying in popped an image in my head of me blowing in her ear. That was strange that this would happen, I thought, as I was intensely praying. I decided what would it hurt if I did or didnt? My conclusion was that if it was God telling me then I guess I should and then if it wasnt then it was just a weird thought. So I went for it. I leaned into her and whispered to her that with her faith, God was going to heal her and blew. After the prayer I was trying to figure out where she was paralyzed. Call it what you want but both her legs were moving and both sets of hands! As if it wasnt enough Im trying to rationalize this and look for other solutions. Denise, my teammate, thought otherwise. She asked the father to tell her to move her toes. He refused and said that he has asked her so many times, and because she cant, it just hurts him to much. Denise persisted and he did. Well... she moved her toes!!!
   I do not know what Gods plan is but what I do know is that He is capable of healing this girl. With faith all things are possible and God is showing me this. If anything else can be said it is that Lees father has more faith than before and the Malay women can see God is at work. Please continue to pray for Lee and her family as they continue through this process.

    This is just a little of what we did, maybe I will have time for one more blog before we leave for Thailand. (note- flight is boarding now... hopefully more pictures to come!) Thank you everyone for all your prayers and support!

Women For Sale?

Fri, 9 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

    $6,800- $8,000.That is the price of a
Vietnamese women. Did you catch that? Yes,
the purchase of a women to be your bride. This is considered a "bride-broker" business, not human trafficking according to these businesses. Whatever they call, whether its legal or not the bigger issue lies in the fact that these women are considered business deals!
   On Wednesday we had the opportunity to visit 8 Vietnamese women just outside of Ipoh, Malaysia who are wives to men who bought them. This gathering was started to show these women the love of Christ. A month ago these women had never heard of Jesus Christ, let alone love. Sold by their parents with promises of a better life only to be alone with someone who does not speak her language. I do not know these women's stories but the majority of these situations are abusive and anything but loving. Love is a concept completely foreign to them and the reality for thousands of other women around the world.
   Two weeks ago they heard of God's creation, last week about Adam and Eve's sin, this week what do I have to tell them? I started praying last weekend for God to show me something to teach them and to have a love and compassion for them as Christ would. I wracked my brain for several days because I honestly thought I had no way of relating to them. Then it hit me like a ton of bricks! Life and Hope... that is God's story for everyone, including me!
   I became overwhelmed as I looked up Scripture that taught God's love for them.   I just wanted them to know that they are loved, they are cherished, they are valuable, they are daughters to the King, they are heirs to the Kingdom, they are worthy, and they can be FREE! My heart broke for them as they raised their hands when asked if they had ever been abused. We were able to pray for them and many were asking for healing from these situations. I do not know every outcome from Wednesday, or the previous weeks, but some are rejoicing in a new found love!

"And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!" So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God." Galatians 4:6-7

Heart Skipped A Beat

Fri, 2 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

This update will just be me typing away. You may

pick up on hints of frustration, happiness, sadness, or something in between because I honestly have no idea how I feel at this particular moment. This past month was awesome. I was able to spend an entire month working along side team Imago Dei. We had such amazing people that we worked with, we were truly blessed. March will go down as the month that our team grew closer and finally understood each other. From the random speaking engagements to the prayer runs, from the morning devotions to long days of driving, from the village hikes to the kids programs, and from prison ministry to the ministry at the local dump... God taught me to seek Him in all situations. I'm learning that God works in us most when we are serving others...God continues to grow me when I least expect it!

So apart from leaving Bohol, where many of us were not wanting to leave, we found out that our teams would be changing. I love change so at first I was super excited. I starting asking God to give me a peace for the change and if we did not change that peace would be with us all about the decision. It ended up being that JSL was split in four different directions, but I fully believe that it is going to be awesome for each one of us! Tanna, Eric, Emily C, Emily Y, will always have a piece of my heart! Caley and I were moved to team Ignites (Scott (leader), Denise, Alisa, Kate, and Annie Rose) and I am so excited to be working with them! The change is a lot harder than I thought!

From the moment that we landed in Malaysia, my heart just kept skipping beats due to all the excitement of this place! This month we have some amazing contacts that we will be working with. Iphol, Malaysia is by far one of the most interesting places I have ever been. Im not sure where else in the world you can find Malays, Chinese, and Indians making up the majority of the population all in the same city? On top of it all there are many Vietnamese, Indonesian, and other workers here that make up around 2 million people! For the sake of the ministry and the protection of the people we will be working with we are unable to share the details. Just know that God is working in some amazing ways already and there are endless opportunities! To give you a picture of what this city looks like, imagine hearing the Call to Prayer 5 times a day, bells ringing at the Hindu Temples, streets filled with covered women, Monks walking down the street, all mixed with western culture!

Please pray for us that we will be lead by the Spirit and that we will not sit back and let the month pass by! Please pray for all the people that we will be working with and that the language will not be an issue. As we are all getting to know each other please pray that we can jump into this month 100% as a team. This is a big weekend for many churches around the world, so as we celebrate Easter pray that people show up for some of the special services! Also continue to pray for finances as there are several of us that have not been fully funded. God is great and continues to blow my mind so thank you all for being apart of this adventure!