During the first few weeks of the online attack, I realized something.

In the heart of the downtown was a gift shop where, along with lovely, artisan giftware, one could purchase potions to cast spells, besoms for alter displays, tarot sessions available, etc., but there was nowhere to purchase a Bible.  

I got angry at that fact.  I got angry at the foothold the enemy had in the area.  I got angry that witchcraft was being condoned and Christianity was being rejected by so many.  [The lashback I received from witches and the like during the online attack was shocking.  Thankfully I also received an incredible amount of support and encouragment from fellow believers both near and far.]

And so, I got an idea to open up a coffee shop/Christian bookstore and change that reality.

The phrase "If not me, then who?" kept playing over in my head.  If I could see there was a problem, should I not be the one to do something about that problem?  

I had an idea of how to fix it, but I didn't know where to begin.  

And, to be honest, I really struggled with this idea.  I found it overwhelming and a bit puzzling; I don't drink coffee, I'm not a reader, and I already own a company that I am currently running full-time.

But the idea perpetuated.

I pleaded with God; "Lord, if this isn't of you, I trust You will close the doors".  For months, I pleaded with this, and instead of the doors closing, they kept opening.  And the vision grew stronger. 

"If not me, then who... but are you sure, Lord?... me?"

I searched my heart.  I wanted to be obedient.  I wanted to say YES, no matter what. 

No matter the fears that were fighting for a place in my thoughts.

No matter how reasonable the plaguing doubts seemed.

No matter how strong the temptation was to say no... I said YES.

And there were times when, considering the financial commitment, the time and resources involved, and the possibilities of failure, I really wanted to say no.  

And I actually played that scenario out in my mind: 

God:  "Michelle, I want you to trust me.  I am asking you to build a place of HOPE.  A place where my name will be glorified.  A place where the lost and weary will find HOPE.  Will you trust me?"  Will you trust me to provide?  Will you trust me to guide you?  Will you trust my plans?"

Me (the "no" scenario): "No, God, I don't think you are capable."

Clearly, this response was not an option.  It was not an option that I could live with.

You see, although I had doubts, He knew I was ready.  He had been molding me into the person that He needed for this ask.  He knew my heart.  He knew my talents and skills.  He knew.

So, I stood at the Red Sea, I lifted up my staff, and I am now watching the waters part.  (Exodus 14:21)

I am trusting God.

The vision has now developed into building a place of fellowship.  A place of teaching.  A place of discipleship.  A place to gather.  A place to worship.  A place to find resources.  A place to find healing.  A place to find HOPE.

He has sent an incredible group of people who have grabbed hold of this vision with me, and together, incredible things are happening.

I know God is far from finished with me.  I know I have so much more to learn.  But, I believe, as long as I remain humble, strive to keep His will first, and trust Him, He will continue His work in me.

Prayer Request:

Please pray for me.  My heart is to serve God well.  My prayer is that my thoughts, words, and actions will honour the incredible God I serve.  

Please pray for the HOPE Centre. Pray that God's glory will always remain first and foremost. Pray that all who are involved will follow His wisdom, hear His voice, and strive for His will alone to be done in all we do. Pray that the enemy will not get a foothold in this ministry, ever. Pray that we will all have ears to hear and eyes to see when we risk falling astray from God's will and prey to the enemy's ploy.

Please pray for the lost and weary who enter into the HOPE Centre.  Pray that they will see the Light of God and be drawn to it.  That they will feel the Love of God and find rest in it.  That they will desire the will of God and will follow it.