The Gift of Generosity.

Sipping on some coffee with a dear friend, I began sharing some of the things God taught me during my time in Central Asia, one of which being the spirit of boldness, intentionality, and expectancy. Naturally, I transitioned into telling her about this challenge of looking for "Stories of Hope" around town I want to do. In that moment, I immediately felt like I needed to approach the barista who took our order and made our drinks. However, I quickly combatted that thought and feeling with, "Eh, I can just start tomorrow. I don't want to bother her." Ironically enough, my friend felt inclined to let her know that our lattes tasted great because she told us earlier it was her first time making them and was nervous they would not taste good. Right away, I knew that my excuses and fear were pointless, and I really did need to talk to her. "Why wait? Just do it, Jenn!" I thought to myself.

Catching my friend off guard, I followed up her compliment by simply asking the barista what her name was and explained to her what I was doing. Thankfully, she was interested.

"So what has made you feel blessed or encouraged today or in the past few days?"

She responded, "At one point earlier today, car after car 'paid it forward.' Even though it gave me a little extra challenge to keep everything straight, it was encouraging to see so many people generously giving to others."

As we continued conversation for a minute, she informed us that she just moved here in January and would actually love to read what all is going on in our city by following these posts. I told her it's a good thing she likes to read because I like to write. ;)

Who would've thought such a simple question would have left us all feeling so encouraged today? This is the beauty of what happens when we step out in faith and are intentional in looking for where God is at work. I would absolutely love for YOU to join me in this adventure, right where God has so strategically placed you.