Plans are so important. Without a vision for a new initiative, idea, business, or facility, not much would be accomplished in the world.
Everything starts with a vision, but the vision will never become a reality unless careful plans are made.
At Hope Haven Rwanda, we are in the midst of a massive building project. This is just one example of Susan Hollern’s many areas of expertise—planning and building. She amazes me as she wrestles with architectural renderings, design decisions, plumbing and mechanical plans while simultaneously leading an amazing team of contractors via Zoom and email. It is one of her gifts!
Jesus emphasized the importance of solid planning. In Luke 14, we read his exhortation to a large crowd: “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, saying, ‘This person began to build and wasn’t able to finish.’”
What has been most exciting to me, personally, in recent weeks is to see our well-laid plans becoming a reality.
Beginning years ago, our team prayed and planned.
Usually in that order.
The sequence matters.
It is better to seek God’s wisdom before building rather than to ask for His blessing when you are already underway!
Today, we are seeing God make a way for this vision to be realized.
As I oversee operations on campus these days, I am so encouraged to see the conscientious efforts of so many of our administrators, faculty, and support staff. They are gems!
Then as I visit the construction site, I am thrilled to see a new backhoe at work (thanks to a generous donor who recently visited us and saw the need) alongside more than 100 workers who have been hired from our immediate community to help build. As these workers prepare a concrete foundation for our three-story high school academic building, they are using carpentry skills, shaping rebar, applying termite protection, pouring concrete and literally moving tons of dirt.
Each step of the way, we are witnessing God provide what we need. To Him be the glory! I wish we could share all the stories of God’s provision, but many significant donors refuse any recognition for their investments in Hope Haven. They simply want to serve the people of Rwanda and to glorify God as they steward their resources well.
Thanks to each one of you who pray, give and visit. The best is yet to come!