The Jacobs - On the Journey

More than a Phone Interview...

Sat, 13 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

My role with AIM is in the Admissions department. This is the team that begins talking to a person the very first time they express interest and helps find the right trip for them and then prepare for that trip. A big part of the Admissions process is a phone interview. After an applicant fills out an application they have a phone call with one of the staff for that program. This is the point where we really ask the deeper questions and make sure this applicant is a good fit with this trip.

As I was preparing for a recent interview, I knew this girl and I would have a lot to talk about. She had been through a rough life and wasn't in a good place right now. Quite honestly, I wasn't surprised... most of this upcoming generation comes with plenty of baggage.

As we began the conversation, "Sue" (we'll just call her that) shared about growing up in a youth group and how great she felt when she would be at church. At school she would have negative influences all around her, but then she would get to church and things were better. In the summers, she would struggle to make good decisions at home, but then she would go on a mission trip with the youth group and feel so much peace and warmth.

"Sue" now finds herself at college, away from her youth group and any good influences in her life. She's again making poor choices and when she heard about the World Race she saw an opportunity to find that peace and warmth again. However, any World Racer can tell you that those 11 months just don't work that way... they are hard and challenging and without a firm foundation in Christ it's going to be rough. So asked "Sue"... "Where do you see God in your every day life right now?"

Sue paused... "Hmmm... I don't know." I knew then that it wasn't time for her to pursue the Race. I talked a bit with Sue about the difficulties you would face in 11 months overseas and suggested that over the weekend she should look into a shorter trip where she could find some discipleship and begin to build her foundation. She was very surprised... maybe even devastated. But she agreed to look into it, pray, and we would talk again on Monday.

Monday comes around and I give "Sue" a call. "How you doin? How was the weekend?" I'll never forget her words... the door that then opened:

"You know Laura... when you asked me that I got really scared. The truth is that God is not in my everyday life."

"Sue... has anyone ever told you that God wants a PERSONAL relationship with you? He wants to be with you at school, in class, in your dorm.... Not just at church."

"Wow... I have never heard that before."

At this point my mind hit the brakes. WHOA! Okay... reverse... time to head another direction.

"Sue... Jesus came so that we could be with God every single day in every single situation. He didn't come just so we wouldn't have to go to hell. Our sin created a gap that separated us from God and Jesus laid down His life to be a bridge so that we could be with God right now, every day."

"Really?"

"Sue, to have that... all you have to do is pray and ask. There are no right words or specific prayers. Just tell God that you want Him in your everyday life."

"Can I pray now?"

This is why we do what we do... It amazes me that a person could grow up in church their whole life and have no idea that God wants a PERSONAL relationship... But God is such an amazing, persistent God that He will even introduce you to to a random missions organization in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains so He can show you how much He loves you. Wow...

"Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have." -- 1 Peter 3:15

My weekend of...

Thu, 4 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Over the past month I have been a part of two really great weekend training's. The first was for a group of college students from the Wesleyan foundation at Georgia Southern University (near Savannah, GA). 20+ students and their leader, Carl, came with an expectation that God would do something in their lives; that he would speak to them, touch them in some way.

The week before they where scheduled to come I got some "bad" news from my boss, Clint. "Corey I'm sorry but this weekend I am going to Haiti with some other AIM people. Sorry dude. But your it. You got it, I know your gonna do great."

Even while he was giving me full confidence I was doubting that I could pull it off. "Shoot. This means I have to do..." and the list of "how to cover my butt" began. We had talked this weekend up for the students and built this into a wonderful weekend even before it began, and all I could envision was a weekend of chaos, no direction and more importantly - me looking like an idiot.

I knew that God would show up and that it'd be an awesome weekend, but I was fighting to believe that. And more than once I thought "all is lost, I should call Carl and tell him not to come." One time as I was wrestling with this thought I heard something (no, some one) rise up inside of me and say "Oh no you don't! I am taking Clint and the others away from this so that you can rise to where I want you."

Wow...All I could do was say "Yes Lord! I won't fight you. Only, please show upbecause I don't have anything to give them!" That whole weekend I was pleading the Lord to come and have His way among the group, myself and the other staff. There were times throughout the week when it was evident that God's Spirit was working on individuals. I wasn't sure if everyone was catching what the Lord was wanting to give us but I decided not to let that distract me. "I'm not here to make them listen, or make them hungry for all of God. God, thats your job right?" He said "Yup"

On the last morning I asked them "Whom did God speak to this weekend?" All of them raised their hands and smiled big! God showed up...at that moment I was filled with a peace and I heard the Lord say "Well done".

Thanks to Madden for taking these pictures.

Pictures!

Thu, 4 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The group washing dishes

Duck and Carl(on floor)

THis is the only picture of me I found. I look sleepy, I think I can remember how I felt...oh yeah, sleepy.

Yes, it did snow here that weekend which gave them much to do outside. look below\/
L-R :Katie, Brittany, Lindsay, Casey(with hand up) and Laura. Lindsay is from the group, the others are AIM staff. Laura had a really good time ministering to the girls from the group.

Thanks to Madden for taking these pictures.

In Memoriam...

Mon, 1 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A dear friend passed away this morning. Jason St. John was a part of my community in Texas before The World Race. Only a few years ago, he married one of my closest friends - Kaci. We are headed out to Texas in the morning to love and support Kaci in every way possible and to attend Jason's funeral.

Kaci overwhelmed me today. As she planned the funeral, she asked gave people the option to donate to a charitable organization in Jason's honor - one of which is us. For those of you visiting this website to honor her request, we are overwhelmed. Thank you. Know that our vision is to spend our lives helping this generation find and experience all that God wants to offer. Jason's life was lived in pursuit of just that and the way we want to honor him is to help others finish the Race. To donate, simply click "Support The Jacobs" on the left.

Our prayer right now is that God would give us the words when needed and the silence when that's needed... that we would hold Kaci when possible and hold up those who are holding her when not. We appreciate you all who hold us up as we walk this incredibly unfortunate road.

Radio Interview

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Yesterday Corey, Clint, and Teri were interviewed for a christian radio program.

Click this link to listen Listen to the Interview

Pastor Prefe from Fond Parisien

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Here is a video of Pastor Etean Profe'. He and his wife Betty live in the Haitian Town of Fond Parisien where he is a pastor, doctor, father figure, and much more to many. We are hooking up with him to get supplies accross the border into Haiti and plan to have him funnel our supplies to 100 other pastors that have relationships with him.

Back home

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Just a quick note [that became long] to say I'm back in Gainesville as of 9pm Monday night. I'm wiped out but still broken and now very hopeful for what God has planned for Haiti. I think I'm beginning to understand that our response is so very important and that the Kindgom of God needs to be awakened on this earth, and we were meant to do that...I was meant to do that. I was born to, and so are you.

In Santo Domingo we were getting our bags at the airport and another of the 100 or so aid workers that were on our plane said to me and my firends "well good luck and give them heaven!" (as a posed to "give them hell", hey I didn't get it at first either). I thought it was so appropriate for that day to keep that thought in my head, I'm supposed to help others find the abundant life I found. And I believe I did in some ways, and it feels great. You don't sleep much, and some days you go without food for 8+ hours just becuase your busy, and sometimes when you do get time to eat you can't because the restaurant ran out of food because there are so many American, Boivian, Canadian, Dominican, etc, doctors and church groups...besides the inconvenience just think how good a problem that is. So many decided to give and some went because they could. A friend of mine, who I lost touch with when we left Georgia for Ireland last August met me the night before I left and handed me a envelope with the money he and his young family wanted to give to me for supplies and on those in Haiti. I didn't open it until he was gone and I was buying mosquito netting. When I did I was moved and almost cried. I know this guy doesn't have much so to see so much given I could see his passion and heart was in my hands. Jesus brought attention to the widow who gave all she had, 2 small coins.

In Jimani, Miguel and I were singing (in Creole!) and praying with a group of refugees. I asked God to "meet everyone of their needs", I very clearly heard a whisper that said "You meet their needs".

If we don't respond who will? I think the response from most Americans has been great, very generous. But is that it? It's between you and God. Not anyone else. What is HE asking of you?

quick update, thoughts

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Hey all,

Just wanted to let you know that we (Sam Borg, Marcia Borg, and I. Mitch left this morning with other Americans and flew home) left Jimani this morning after dropping off a load of supplies from a very full jeep. We bought in 7 pairs; 7 propane tanks, 7 stove tops, 7 sets of food and clothes, and other things for 7 pastors who have heard the same word from God that Miguel has heard. We believe that the Lord is raising up pastors who will become fathers to their people in Haiti.

We poured all we had into this vision, we felt that this was the best way to use most of our resources as most immediate needs are being met, of course there are always exceptions as to who gets or doesn't get fed.

We will have plenty of stories in the days to come; we spent a lot of time runninf around shopping but we did spend a good amount of time on the streets talking to people who were camping out on the sidewalks or in the park.

Now that I have sat with these people and talked with them; heard their story and in a small way felt their pain, I have to make room in my heart for them. They are a beautiful people with a unique dialect that sounds beautiful and mystical.

On another note we felt an aftershock last night in Jimani, it only lasted 4 or 5 seconds. It was very strange....

Jimani (Hi-ma-ni)

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

We rolled into Jimani, the second biggest focus point besides Port Au Prince, yesterday afternoon with expectations of finding hundres upon hundreds on the streets. We were prepared for what we saw on tv and youtube to be in our face, enter expectations change.

There are people in the streets, maybe 70 to 120, all of them trying to get a ride to the Dominican capital where they believe more hope lies than in Haiti. Most of the hospital paitents are in post opt care. Last night Miguel and I walked through the hospital, there is need for love there. Lots of people with casts and one leg or one arm missing. It was alittle overwhelming to see so many in the halls, some with family some not so lucky.

Miguel and I found need. We walked around with a bag full of little bolsas de agua handing them to anyone who wanted water, nurses, doctors and of course the paitents themselves. We walked in back and found a women who had a plate of food next to her on the bed, Miguel knew what to do...he started to feed her.

Before visiting the hospital we were blessed with the company we sought out, a group of Haitians who were sitting in the city park, searching (not intently) for a place to sleep. Ezekiel was the man of the group, he was living in the DR when everything happened. His sister was in Port au Prince, along with her 3 kids. Her husband died, not sure if anyone else in her family did or not because we didnt talk about people dying. Instead Miguel, full of the Holy Spirit and His energy, was entertaining the kids and having them sing worship songs in Creole ( Haitian French). It was beautiful. We were soon joined by more people as a man and his wife, along with a few other women settled up to us. We all talked awhile about different things. Then Miguel started asking them about Jesus. I could see that the burden to share the Gospel was spilling out of His mouth, it was as beautiful as the singing. Turns out Ezekiel and his family are christians but the other man wasnt. I believe that he heard and accepted, Miguel was very straight forward with him specifically.

Thursday Update from Haiti

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

1:30pm Eastern Time January 21st:

Corey and crew are in Jimani (border town DR/Haiti). All are safe and healthy.

This morning they arrived in Jimani not knowing what to expect. Last week our DR staff member Miguel Shaul has made contact with a pastor in Port-au-Prince who needed medical supplies and food. Since then we've been unable to contact him due to communication lines being down. They prayed. The team met up with Miguel in Jimani and were praying and discussing options when Miguel jumped from the car saying, "There is the pastor!"

The pastor was at a gas station, dropping off a wounded person, and headed back to Haiti. The team were able to immediately hand over ALL the supplies they had gathered in Gainesville - $2200 worth - and put it in the back of the pastor's truck. The plan is tomorrow the pastor will return and the team will meet him with a load of food stuffs they can buy on the DR side.

They say the hospital is full, but the streets are "normal." There are lots of aid workers there. They have been talking with two young mothers with young children who were from Port-au-Prince, had fled after the earthquake and were just sitting exhausted on the sidewalk. They seemed traumatized - every time a car went by they felt as if another earthquake was coming.

Depending on how things go they may go into a small town near another border that has gone from its normal population of 3000 to more than 20,000 - people are leaving Port-au-Prince in drives going wherever they can for help.

Please keep praying as they follow the Lord's leading.

News from the Dominican Republic

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

One of the other family members here at home heard from Corey and the team. Here's a little update from that blog. I'll keep you posted as I hear more...

Just off the phone with Sam and Marcia. They made it fine but had some problems with the rental van. But, being the DR and Sam they were able to find other transport to rent. Because of this they were delayed but they are on their way to Jimani now.

Marcia said almost the whole plane was filled with Red Cross and World Vision and other aid workers!

Thanks for all the support of the little group - they are small but mighty and so very thankful for the support of family, friends, and community.

A trip to Haiti...

Sun, 17 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

In our last blog, we discussed how to respond to Haiti and I asked you to pray wit us about our specific response to Haiti. Since that time, God has clearly spoken about our response. Corey, along with two other men from our small group - Sam and Mitch, are getting on a plane on Wednesday, bound for Haiti with an incredible purpose...

1) Support. Both Corey and Sam have extensive experience in the Dominican Republic and are very close with Miguel Shaul. They will be helping host a first response medical team, navigating them through the DR Bus System and helping Miguel set up how other teams will do the same. Mitch works with an organization called Team Effort which has extensive experience in Haiti.

2) Hope. While the practical necessities of rescue, medical attention, and cleanup are always the focus right after a disaster, there's an equal need for someone to come, sit next to you, hold your hand, and listen. Corey, Sam, and Mitch plan to travel to the Haitian border and do just that. Be available to help, comfort, and offer hope at every corner. They will fill up their luggage with food, water, and any supplies they can gather in the Dominican to hand out to people they meet at the border.

For this trip to be a success we need you, our friends, family, and even random blog visitors to join us in two ways.

Above everything else, pray. Pray that God would lead this trip. Pray for perfect opportunities where Heaven and come to Earth through Sam, Mitch, and Corey. Pray safety as they travel and as they enter the chaos of the Haitian border. Pray that God would supply their every need. Would you take a second right now on our behalf?

Next, there is an opportunity for you to be a part of this trip. Because this is a first response, we are not going through an established trip or structured project. In order to go so quickly and follow God's leading, we are emptying our savings account to cover the costs of this trip. If you would like to join what God is doing through Sam, Mitch, and Corey, here are some practical things you can give toward:

-- Plane ticket costs: $500.

-- Travel from the Dominican to Haiti: $100.

-- Food, Water, and Supplies: $100 for 10 people.

You can send donations to us directly at

Corey and Laura Jacobs

2323 Avonlea Way

Gainesville, GA 30504

Remember that because you are donating directly to us, these are not tax deductible gifts. As money comes in, I will deposit it in our bank acount and let Corey know how much to take out of an ATM in the Dominican. We appreciate your prayers and support that cover us as we seek to follow all that God is leading us toward!

Religion, Compassion, and Haiti

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Last night at small group we had a lengthy discussion on the earthquake in Haiti. Our group is made up of people who are passionate to be God's true hands and feet in the world. So obviously, we are all very stirred by these recent events and what God is up to.

As with many conversations yesterday, our talk turned to Pat Robinson and his remarks. He brought up Haiti's tradition as a voodoo country and alluded that there was a correlation between their religion and the devastation of the earthquake. Talking about this with our small group simply made my stomach turn. As we continued to share around the group, my mind began recalling what it is I love about Christianity and what it is I can't stand about religion.

You see I believe there is a fundamental difference between being a Christ-follower and being a religious person. Religion is a set of rules and regulations about how we should live. Often these rules and regulations are violently defended to anyone who disagrees with those rules. Every religion, maybe especially Christianity, can point to events in their history filled with violence in the name of their God... to prove themselves right.

I have a dear, dear friend who encapsulated these thoughts perfectly today. My friend would not align herself with mainstream Christianity though she thinks Jesus is pretty cool. After being lambasted for being different, she shared some of her thoughts on Facebook: "I understand religion, and I am often turned off by it. I am turned off by the disdain and the animosity and the condemnation that pours out of the so-called good Christians like their life blood."

I couldn't agree more. Even when sharing truth... deep, life-changing, truth... Christians often come across in a pushy, hurtful way. Even some of what Pat Robinson said might ring of truth... a nation filled with people practicing voodoo... probably not a good decision. God is righteous and has warned of judgment. The problem with what was said... and what is often preached and thrown at unbelievers... is they forget the second half.

GRACE. God does warn of judgment and the consequences of leading a sinful life. And in response to His own warning, He did something a little bit radical. He sent this person named Jesus... a piece of Himself put into the limitations of flesh. And this Jesus was the answer to that judgment and wrath God warned about. The life of Jesus doesn't in any way, shape, or form fit with the hellfire and brimstone that so many unbelievers are lambasted with.

Instead, Jesus acted in the exact opposite way. He lambasted the religious... the ones who made and enforced the rules... creating more rules when they deemed necessary. To those people, he shouted and turned over tables. But to the lost... to those whose lifestyles were as far outside the religious law as you could get... To them he loved. He held them. He cried with them. He knelt down in the dirt with them. And ultimately, He died for them. He became the punishment that God promised. God punished Himself in order to set them free.

So have the people of Haiti made some bad decisions in the past? Sure... what nation hasn't? But can the Body of Christ lean back, cross their arms, point their fingers, and say "I told you so?" Never. Instead, those who want to follow Christ must get down on their knees, down in the dirt alongside the Haitians, cry with them, hold them, and point to a God who desperately loves them and will do absolutely anything to rescue them.

This is the God I love. This is the God who inspires me. This is the God who I want my friend to meet. This is the God I want to follow to Haiti. How about you?

AIM is currently mobilizing efforts to effectively reach out to Haiti. Those of you who have walked with us for a while remember our dear friends Miguel and Kristen Shaul (Miguel was Corey's best man). They lead AIM's base in the Dominican Republic. The day after the earthquake Miguel and David packed their backpacks with as many supplies as they could and jumped on a flatbed truck headed toward the Haitian border. Miguel will spend the next few days or weeks helping in every way he can and finding where AIM can send teams and supplies to aid in relief.

If you want to be a part of these efforts, I encourage two main ways.

First, give. AIM has created a fund that is funneled directly to Miguel to provide supplies. You can donate here. Until Miguel is able to send word about needs and more ways to help, this is the greatest need.

Second, go. In about a week, we expect to have details about sending relief teams down to Haiti. If you have medical or skilled labor gifts, please sign up as soon as possible. But Haiti needs even more than those skills... Haiti needs people who will kneel down in the dirt with them and hold them. Do you know Hope? Do you know a Savior who rescues lives from rubble? Then Haiti needs you. Haiti needs us. Keep up to date with how to go to Haiti here.

Corey and I also ask for your prayers, that you would cover us as we seek out our specific response to Haiti, including a possible trip to support Miguel's relief efforts.

A Prayer Request....

Mon, 4 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Because you folks are important to us, we are sending a quick note to update you on what is happening with our lives and ministry and ask for your prayer.

Like our previous newsletters talked about, we have really found our niche with Adventures in Missions and serving in The World Race and Short Term Missions departments. In order to improve our communication with all of you who invest in our ministry, we will be focusing the next few months on connecting personally with as many believers as possible here at home to share our vision and give people the opportunity to partner with us in various ways.

We are excited about an intense three-week online training course we are taking to help us share our vision more effectively and connect people with a vital purpose for their redemption: being the expression of Christ to the nations.

This post is not to ask for increased financial partnership in our ministry right now but rather, we are asking for your prayer as we take on this course with lots of homework, and then launch this exciting temporary assignment. We look forward to getting in touch with you when our training is complete.

A New Year brings Change...

Sat, 26 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In our recent newsletter, the back page was about support raising. However, a recent change has caused us to stop the presses...

Almost exactly 10 months ago, God closed the door for us to move to Ireland. It was not the most exciting change of plans, but we definitely recognized God's hand in moving us. As that door closed, another door opened. We had a smoothly paved road for us to move back to Gainesville, work in the AIM office, and become chaplains with a local apartment complex. One of the greatest blessings with this change was that we had exactly enough support coming in to live comfortably as long as we had free rent and utilities. Since the chaplain position came with free rent and utilities, everything worked out beautifully.

As we began to plug in here in Gainesville again, we hit some bumps in the road. The apartment ministry wasn't everything we had dreamed of. While we were able to put together events for the apartment community, there was low interest and even fewer opportunities for ministry. So thankful for the financial provision of free rent for now, we agreed that this wasn't a permanent solution and began searching for more permanent roles.

Laura's role was fairly established. As the Admissions Director for the World Race, she found her fit, her calling, and her passion. It's a role that is ever increasing and a regular challenge she loves to embrace. Corey has been a part of nearly every department in AIM at some point and the question was whether to settle down in one of those departments at AIM or to pursue a new opportunity outside AIM. For months we prayed and struggled and tried new roles. Then, in October, everything seemed to fall in to place. What God was saying and circumstances came together and a door opened in the Short Term Missions Department at AIM. Corey volunteered with them for a while and eventually found his niche in training and staff development with STM. He also assists with setting up trips and leading projects for 3 days to 2 weeks.

This opportunity fit perfectly with God's call, Corey's personality, and our passion for ministry. However, because this is a support-based ministry, it did not change our financial needs. We knew that committing to this opportunity meant we would need to continue working at the apartments or raise more support. For the short term we planned to stay at the apartments, thanking God for the time and space to raise more support.

Unfortunately, that changed this last week. Just last week we sent out a newsletter talking about raising about $500 more in support simply to plan for our future. Just after printing that newsletter, the apartments informed us they no longer desire to have our ministry at their complex and we would be let go just after the first of the year. They also informed us that we would need to sign a lease or decide to move out immediately. While leaving the apartment ministry is part of our plan, the timing was very unexpected.

The amazing thing is that even in the midst of the loss of our apartment job, we have absolute peace. We knew long ago that God's plan was to leave apartment ministry. We have seen God provide for us to move back to Gainesville, provide exactly what we need to live on in the midst of a trying economy, and we know that He will continue to provide for our new need. This is where God has called us to be and we do believe that we are where He wants us.

As we head into this new season, you - the people who have walked alongside all that God is doing through us - are vitally important to us.

First, your prayers are important. Would you take a moment, even now, to pray for our transition? Pray that we would remember all that God has called us to do here. Would you pray that we would recognize each way He provides for our needs - whether it's monetary increase or any other means? Would you pray for the people God is calling to join our team? Would you pray about any way God is stirring you to be part of this new season?

Second, we need to increase our financial support. In our previous newsletter, we were praying for $500 more per month in order to invest and plan for our future. That has now changed. We need approximately $1000 per month to cover rent and utilities. Would you pray about being a part of God's provision in our life?

The easiest way to support us is by clicking the link to the left where it says "Support Us." This will allow you to make a secure, tax deductible donation toward our ministry. You can also mail a check with our name on the memo line to

Adventures In Missions
P.O. Box 534470
Atlanta, GA 30353-4470

In a world where nothing is certain... no job is forever and no income is guaranteed... we are so thankful for a God who never changes. We praise Him for how He has provided for us in our past and how He will provide for us in the future. And just like Paul "gave thanks without ceasing" for those who supported him, we are always grateful and even encouraged by the men and women who surround us with their encouragement, prayers, and support. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

A Look toward 2010...

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Our last blog covered 2009 and the top 3 highlights of this past year. In this blog we'll look toward 2010 and what excitement we hope next year will bring...

A Look Toward 2010...

Embracing Our Roles

The theme of 2009 may have been "Searching". We searched for the city God wanted us to live in. We searched for the ministry God had for us. We searched for the community of people to live alongside. We searched for the right job fit for Corey. At times it felt like wandering in the desert.

The end of 2009 seems to be the end of our searching. We know we are called to continue working at AIM, Laura in the Admissions Department and Corey in the Short Term Department. We know we are called to live alongside this group of people... the people who have gone far beyond co-workers and become family. It seems like the question we kept asking has finally been answered.

Because of this, the most exciting thing about heading in to 2010 is embracing the roles we have found. It's exciting to know that we are where we are supposed to be. It's exciting to see all the ways we will need to grow to fill these roles.

The challenging part of 2010 will be to not become complacent in this season. As long as we were searching for what God had for us, we were open to whatever He wanted to do. Now that we are settled in to our roles we covet your prayers to continue diligently seeking what God has for each day. Please pray that we would seek God's voice and obey, no matter what He calls us to do with our lives.

The Ever-Expanding Group

We have been incredibly blessed with an amazing community of people around us. In fact, it's such a huge blessing we have found others longing for what we have.

We also have discovered that THE thing that we love the most is pouring into others. We get to do this often in the teams we lead, but we've discovered that there's more to our calling than that. We want to bring people into community with God and each other in every place we are... including Gainesville.

We spent a lot of 2009 praying about what this looks like. One Sunday in the summer, Andy Scott, our pastor of small groups at church, approached us and asked us to begin a new small group for young married families.

At first we made many excuses about our schedule and protecting our time, but eventually we realized this was the answer to our prayers. So this winter we began meeting with two young couples. Both couples are looking to really grow deeper into what God has. In 2010 we are looking forward to pouring in to these lives right next door and seeing how God moves in all of us!

Planning for Future Jacobs

We are hoping that part of 2010 will include us becoming parents! But no, we are not yet pregnant.

Laura has struggled with hormone imbalances most of her life. For the past year we have been seeing a homeopathic doctor who specializes in infertility. We are now on a great track and Laura's health is improving regularly!

We count our blessings that God has given us time to prepare to become parents. We are working to plan emotionally, spiritually, and financially for all that parenting will include and glean the wisdom from those around us.

Would you pray with us for the little boy or girl God has in our future? We believe God will help us conceive in His perfect timing, but often we struggle with wanting our own timing. We would appreciate your prayers for wisdom and patience and faith to endure the journey, however long or short it may be.

Coming up next... news more recent than the

newsletter...

Highlights of 2009

Sun, 20 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Coming soon to a mailbox near you is our quarterly newsletter! For those who don't receive our newsletter, I thought I'd post a couple of articles on here as well. At the end of this series, there is even some news that has changed since we sent our newsletter!

Highlights of 2009

Corey's Perfect Fit

Since we moved back to Gainesville this March, I (Corey) was asking the Lord some questions: "Where do I fit in AIM? Where am I headed? What do you want me to do?" He provided a great part-time job as the event coordinator and chaplain for the apartment complex where we live.

During the summer we attended a conference called the Awakening where we attended days of various seminars. One of them by Seth Barnes was entitled "Finding your Kingdom dream." The basic idea of this seminar was that 1) we are all designed to be involved in the building of God's kingdom, 2) God gives us His dreams and desires, and 3) its our responsibility to carry them out.

I was greatly inspired by Seth as he brought truths from God's word to encourage us to pursue God's dreams for His people!

One day someone asked an obvious question, "Does everybody get their own unique dream from God or do some help those who do get a dream?"Seth responded how he has seen how God doesn't give us His big dreams until we have proven that we are faithful in the small mundane, ordinary, everyday things.

As he was saying this I felt a rumble in my spirit. I heard that still small voice say, "Serve someone else in the dream I gave them."

Since then my questions have been answered, once I realized what God meant. I got the opportunity when we got back to work on a side project with a guy named Clint Bokelman, the head of AIM's Short Term Department. One day after a meeting I shared with him what God had told me at the Awakening and how I was still trying to find my place at AIM. As a department head I was surprised when he didn't jump on my offer. The next day I told him that I was either going to culinary school (which is still a lifelong goal) or I would work for him. "Use me or lose me," I said, and he took me up on my offer.

I now work in the short term department at AIM. I set up 7 to 10 day trips for groups in the lower Appalachian area of the States. I also work in helping run our training for some new staff, and leading one week trips. I'm so excited about this new role where God has called me.

A Not-So-Small Group

Two and a half years ago when we moved to Gainesville, we knew very few people. Corey had a few acquaintances from previous trips with AIM. One of these acquaintances, Sam and Jill Borg, lived in Gainesville and invited us to be a part of their small group.

This group of 7 young families has now become a close knit group. While we'll have 14 adults and 8.5 kids each Thursday, we still find time to each share about our lives, our families, our successes and our struggles.

When Corey has to be gone on an STM trip, this group of people reminds me that if I need anything, they are one phone call away. And if they find out I was in need but didn't ask for something... man am I in trouble! This is a group that is radically committed to meeting each other's needs!

We not only meet together each week, but we've found that we really like having fun together as well. A few of us girls go to the same gym and have a lot of fun dancing in aerobics classes together. The guys regularly make time for fishing or water skiing and every Friday morning they meet together for accountability and "guy time."

While Corey and I are now the only ones without children, we are SO thankful for the parenting training we get from all the kids in this group!

It was so scary to move to a new city with no support group in place. Looking back on this year I can see how we've grown in so many ways. Each Thursday we get to experience a little piece of what God really meant church to be!

There's No Place like Home
"It's not about what you're called to do. It's about who you're called to be with."

This was the wisdom Michael Hindes, director of the World Race, shared with us when we moved back to Gainesville. The past year has taught us how incredibly true those words are. Between our small group and our co-workers, we truly can call this place home. There is nothing better than knowing each other deeply and being deeply known.

In addition, we have finally invested in actual home furnishings! We lived such a nomadic lifestyle up until this point that our belongings always fit in our little yellow car. Not any longer!

We've truly enjoyed setting up house this year. Between our favorite couch, Laura's napping chair, and Corey's kitchen toys, we love our apartment!

The best part is that we have a spare room. Laura has found a love for hospitality and we often have visitors stay with us. Will you be our guest?

Stay Tuned for a Look toward 2010...

In New Orleans (or as locals say "Na'o'lens")

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

It wasn't until when I was leaning on my rake yesterday, staring bewildered at old family photos on the floor, that the facts sunk in, "I'm in someones old apartment, pushing a pile of their abandoned belongings with a garden rake to the window so it can be shoveled out and pitched into the dumpster....this is crazy."

The aftermath of hurricane Katrina is still very tangible here in New Orleans. The smell of molding drywall, roting mattresses, and mounds of stinky clothes, pictures, and non valuable belongings. Valuables where taken from the apartments not long after residents were allowed back.

Buildings that have been abandoned since the hurricane have a journal entry on one of its outer walls. A spray painted code indicates when the building was checked, by which authority (police, fire, from which state, etc.),if there were any dangers in the building, and if there were any bodies found inside.

One of my jobs this week, with my friend Jason, was clearing the buildings of bees and wasps before the groups would go in and start cleaning. As Jason and I opened the buidlings up and slowly worked our way through the trashed apartments, I'm not gonna lie, the possibility of finding a corpse was pretty great in my mind. We didn't but we did find a dead possum, which was pretty nasty.

Check out this video made for the group that I'm helping with

A Tribute to My Hubby...

Thu, 5 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

So training camp is over... and we're in the process of recovering. This camp was a lot more difficult than the past few. A big portion of the difficulty is just the sheer size of this camp. 119 participants in one location is just overwhelming... I don't care who you are! However, the main reason for my difficulties was because of one reason.

Corey was gone.

Now I know... call me the pitiful newlywed. But I SERIOUSLY missed my husband for those 10 days! He was on back to back short term projects... leading one in Harlan, Kentucky and helping one in Matamoros, Mexico. At first my thought was that it would be a good time for him to be gone, considering I would be at the office so much. If we're both busy, we miss each other less, right?

Wrong.

I realized over those days that our lives have absolutely become intertwined. I depend on Corey 110%. I used to pride myself on being a strong, independent woman. I kept telling myself while Corey was gone "Hey... you were single once... you survived then!"

Not anymore.

Not having Corey around made me realize that he is the piece of my life that keeps it all together. In case you don't know me that well... I'm often a little scattered. That may seem funny considering my job is to keep all the details in line. But when it comes to home and personal life...

...that's all Corey.

One evening, I was sitting in bed and I think it just finally hit me... I've always taken it for granted how much my husband loves and serves me without the praises and accolades he deserves. He regularly shows me how much he loves me through all the little things in life... Coffee in the morning... shutting off the alarm so I can sleep five more minutes and then waking me up with a sweet kiss... making sure I have breakfast... making sure I get rest when I need rest... making sure I don't forget to drink water or eat lunch...

I'm way too lucky...

I'm not gonna lie ladies... I got the best! Sorry! He's already mine... I'll see if he can train up a few for you too.

Unfortunately for my pampering, my amazing husband has been discovered. He's taken on a role in our Short Term Missions Department alongside the Director. Clint has started to brainstorm new projects with Corey and together with the department, they're making it happen. A few weeks ago, Corey put together a weekend retreat for a group of college ministry leaders. He designed and carried out a weekend for them to encounter God, be filled up, and challenged to a deeper lifestyle. It was so successful they are looking to begin offering these retreats for more groups.

This week Corey is helping to lead Project Leader Training here in Gainesville. He has worked alongside Clint and the Short Term department to completely redevelop how they train leaders for the 3-day to 2-week trips AIM offers. Corey is responsible for emceeing the event and for teaching a few of the sessions.

So I'm going to try my own hand at pampering... It's my turn to keep everything together so he can focus on what God has him doing for now. I know I could never serve him as well as he serves me, but I'm gonna try my best!!! I'm so proud of all that he's doing and the new roles he's stepped into.

...even if that means I have to make my own coffee once in a while

From a Whisper to a Rumor...

Sat, 24 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Not quite 4 years ago, 23 crazy people met up in Mexico to experiment with this thing called the World Race. We didn't really know what we were in for. We didn't really know what we were doing. We had no idea what would happen or how. We just heard a whipser... a whisper that there was more. There's more than what we currently knew. More than a 9 to 5 job. More than a paycheck. More than Sunday morning and Wednesday nights. And we wanted to chase the whisper...

Not quite 4 years later, 119 crazy people met up in Gainesville, Georgia for the same reason. The whisper that began has become a rumor that's spreading across the literal world. It absolutely blows my mind to think of the place this little idea called The World Race started and where it has come. Back in Mexico we talked about a movement... a generation coming fully alive to embrace the More that God has planned for us. It was hard to imagine a "movement" when we all could fit in a small kitchen. But now... looking around our packed out training center... I see the reality of what we dreamed of not quite 4 years ago.

Training camp is always my favorite time. We've done this enough times now that we know basically what to expect. We expect that people are going to be terrified when they arrive. And we expect that God is going to show up. We expect new understanding and new freedom for each person. And ... as always... we expect to be surprised.

This camp was exactly what we expected. I found myself in a new place of ministry... not only walking in the mercy and compassion that comes so naturally, but also walking through inner healing and praying life into people's past hurts and wounds. I found myself once again falling in love with each person... wanting them to understand all that God has for them... wanting them to get over themselves enough to see something bigger... wanting them to embrace the culture, community, and calling that's right here for them. It's my most favorite experience and the most heart wrenching.

I love my life. I love being a part of a place where we truly are watching a generation come alive... a generation sacrifice all that they know to embrace all that could be... a generation who heard the whisper and is spreading the rumor.

Pictures!

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I just added some pictures from the trip in Kentucky. Click on the link that says "Look at our photos".

Enjoy!

The busy season isn't over yet!

Sat, 17 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As soon as we got back from Romania we took a week to hibernate before training camp (for Laura) and two 4 day traveling periods (for Corey) would happen. Along with our normal work, trying to rest up from traveling and spending time reconnecting with friends, we haven't had time to update most of you about our recent travels. If you have Facebook and are a friend of Laura or I please go on there and search our pictures, I know that I have a few photo albums on my fb site that are of us in Greece and Romania.

Right now I am in Harlan Kentucky project leading two groups of adults, one from Chicago and one from Janesville Wisconsin. We have had the "Go Packers", "Go bears" teasing but all in good fun. These two groups, along with two individuals who came separate, are becoming one body very nicely. We have been busy doing a lot of painting at a local church and visiting seniors and disabled persons at a adult day care center. There are many stories I want to share with you but my battery is running low, I'll try to get some pictures up as well.

Please pray that the rain stops, its been non-stop since wednesday. Ask the Father to continue to open our eyes to what He is doing in His people of Harlan, an area that is pretty depressed, not unlike most small coal mining towns of the Appalachians.

Peace

Whats in your heart will come out in your actions and talk. A story.

Sat, 17 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This is a story that Ray, one of the guys here in Harlan on the project from Chicago. He talked to R (named protected) at the adult day care center we visited who shared a story that made me upset when I heard it. I think its important to share so that we can remember that our inaction effects others as well as our actions.

His name was R. He was sitting all alone by the door. As I talked with him he mentioned that he might normally eat or play the games (bingo was under way), today he had something that was weighing on his mind. I asked him if he'd share with me.

He explained that he had a niece with 4 children. This niece was troubled and in and out of shelters. The most recent shelter had asked her to leave, putting her on the street to live in her van with her 4 children. He called his sister who lives in the area and has a big "brick" house with plenty of room and a big basement. When he asked the sister about the possibility of helping the niece, he overheard her husband saying tell him we'll pray about it'.

He was amazed. Here was a man who actually preached at their church of 10-20 people who when asked if he could tangibly help some children in need his response was he'd pray about it.

Now I'm not sure of the details of the girls life, I'm not sure of where R stands before God, but he had a clear sense that people that claim God's name as followers of Christ need to be active in their faith. That would have spoken volumes to R, but instead, he's distressed over the situation and his brother-in-laws response to a plea for help.

As I left he asked if I'd pray for his niece and her kids. I told him I'd be happy to do that and smiled at him and asked if he understood that I was not able to provide shelter. He smiled. I think he understood the irony. But the lesson he shared was a good reminder that people are watching to see that our walk is consistent with our talk.

Heres a random picture from today of Casy, me, Doug, Donna, Sue on the stairs that Bob and Phil.

Summer Update... Part 4

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

And God Provides... an update on our Support Raising

When we first felt God re-directing our steps back to Gainesville, we both felt incredibly anxious about support raising. Often, stateside missionaries find it very difficult to raise support. As we spoke with each of our monthly donors, we were encouraged. Every person confirmed that we were following God's direction. We were overwhelmed with gratitude and remembered that God will take care of all our needs.

Now that we've been here a while, we have seen that promise come true by the faithful giving of each supporter. Between monthly supporters and special donations, we have had all our needs covered! What an amazing miracle in the midst of CNN screaming about an economic downturn. We are so thankful for God's economy!

Currently, we are about $250 per month shy of our goal. While few people could find an extra $250 in their monthly budget, many people may find an extra $10! If only 25 of you found an extra $10, we would be fully funded! Would you pray about joining our monthly support team?

In addition, our upcoming trips are an extra cost outside of our monthly support.. We need to raise a total of $3000 for all these trips combined. Would you prayerfully consider donating toward one of these journeys overseas?

We never forget that our ministry is made possible through the prayers and donations of each of you. From us, and all those being impacted, Thank You So Much!!!

Summer Update... Part 3

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

To Reach the Rich... Stories of our Apartment Ministry

Beginning the Ministry

When last we left you, we had just committed to living in a local apartment complex where we would plan and host community events as well as build relationships with residents. We have grown a lot as we learn not only what it means to be event coordinators, but also how to reach out to those who don't recognize their need.

The Learning Curve

As we have walked in this ministry we have found that there's a lot to learn. Many of our events had zero in attendance. Other events had large numbers in attendance, but we have been so busy hosting we never got to meet anyone. There is a sharp learning curve in this ministry... what is it that attracts apartment residents to an event? What is an effective event?

Redefining Success

Back in April, we planned a movie night for the residents. We worked hard to get everything set up and eagerly awaited the masses to arrive. And we waited... and waited. Soon, we saw a mom with two small children walking up the sidewalk-our only guests. While somewhat disheartened, we decided to just play with the kids and have a fun evening.

We left that night tired from lots of playing, and somewhat disheartened that there was such little interest. But the next day was another event. And what would you know? There comes Crystal, Corbin, Quinn, and also her husband, Corey! We met up again for a great afternoon of playing. We had such a great time! As the event wound to a close, I invited Crystal and the family to come over for Easter Dinner the next day... and they accepted! Over the next few months we enjoyed lots of great times with this family. Later on, Corey and Corey decided to go play Frisbee Golf. Only one problem-no Frisbees. So instead, Corey invited them to come to church with us the next day.

Crystal later told me how excited she was. Early in their marriage Crystal had attended a local church by herself, but Corey had always been uninterested in anything pretentious. She was so excited to go to church as a family!

As they continued to come with us to church, there were no miraculous moments... just friends at church together. One day after church Crystal told me they were moving. I was so disheartened. But as the story unfolded, I recognized how amazing God really was.

Crystals job had been a point of tension for a long time. As they had listened to each sermon, God moved them to trust Him with each detail of their lives. So she has quit her job and they are watching God provide a much better situation for them in Florida.

As we said goodbye today, Crystal shared with me that she is so thankful that God connected us. Though we've only been friends for a short while, God has used that time to unite her and Corey in their marriage and to give them vision and direction for their future, relying on God for each step.

So we may not have huge events or miraculous salvations, but by just being available, God has changed a family. Hallelujah!

Summer Update... Part 2

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

To Reach the Nations... Stories of ministry overseas

It's been exactly one year since our last mission trip overseas. While God is doing amazing things with us locally, we are feeling the itch to travel again! God knows the desires He has given us and already has plans!

This September, Corey and I have an exciting trip coming up. World Race is hosting a large worship conference, The Awakening, happening in Brasov, Romania. During this time all 3 teams currently on the field will arrive, along with alumni from past Races and all of the leadership. Corey and I will be going to minister to current Racers, Alumni and local Romanians.

Shortly following The Awakening, we will travel to Guatemala to help a new World Race squad begin their journey. The thought of this trip makes me remember the disabled children's hospital that changed my life during my World Race in 2006. I'm excited to return and visit those children and introduce them to Corey!

Summer Update... Part 1

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

To Reach the Saved... Stories of Discipleship with AIM

"It's not what you're called to do, it's who you're called to be with." These are the words our mentor, Michael Hindes, encouraged us with 3 months ago. As we have plugged back into life here in Gainesville, we've echoed this statement over and over. Ministry alongside our best friends at Adventures in Missions is exactly where we're supposed to be. Our two main focuses, training teens and young adults to go overseas and leading teams on short outreaches, has been the best part about being home.

In the past 5 months we have been through 5 training camps with just under 500 people! Wow... just writing that out makes me tired all over again! Training camps are a week of intense ministry to the teams, helping them get rid of their own baggage in order to minister more effectively overseas. During one training camp, God opened an opportunity for Corey to speak life and pour into a participant named Warren Cheely. Check out the video Warren made on our blog at http://thejacobs.myadventures.org/?filename=training-camp-story.

Corey has also had a bad case of the Travel Bug! He has led two Short Term Projects in the past month! You can read amazing testimonies from the Chicago trip at http://www.adventures.org/a/reports/r3re.asp?id=2513.

Just after finishing the Chicago trip, the youth minister Corey worked alongside sent him this text message: "I really appreciate the way you led our group this week. Your heart to pursue Christ was so evident to all of us this week. You truly led by serving and I was challenged to do the same because of your example. This was truly a life changing week for not only our students but for me as well. We would love to serve alongside you again if and when God brings that about. Thank you so much for everything..." What an amazing opportunity to not only impact Chicago, but this youth group as well!

With all these events happening, you may think the between times must be boring. The opposite is true! God has been teaching Laura a lot about how the regular duties are places of regular discipleship. Currently, she is working with a team to re-develop the Admissions process. Each step of the way God is whispering, "Make it about discipleship." So whether we are processing paperwork or praying with a participant, life is full of moments to reach the saved!

World Race Video

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This gets me excited for many different reasons. To date the World Race has sent out over 300 racers into 35+ different countries. We just got done with another training camp for the October 2009 squad. Here's what the World Race is all about.

New Phone Number...

Sun, 7 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Just a quick mass communication that Corey and I have new phone numbers... if you need to update our info just click "Contact the Jacobs" on the left and we'll email you with the new digits...

To Persevere

Tue, 12 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

To persist in anything undertaken; maintain a purpose in spite of difficulty, obstacles, or discouragement; continue steadfastly.

James and Carol were both on the leadership team with me back when I was a part of 20/20, a young adults group in Abilene, TX. Those were really great days... my first experience in Biblical community. I had been in community before... but theatre community is often about being exclusive and partying... not exactly Biblical. I had also been a part of things that were very Biblical... but without close knit community. 20/20 was the first time in my life that the two merged. We were close, authentic, welcoming, and intentional about growing together. James and I co-led a small group that Carol was a member of and Carol later became a small group leader after I left on the World Race.

As often happens in a group of unmarried young folks... attraction showed up. One day, James approaches Carol with all of the courage he can muster: "Carol... I would like to ask you on a date." Carol, with all the love and authenticity in her heart looks back into his eyes: "No." Carol thought James was a great friend and really appreciated his friendship, but there was no attraction on her part. Eventually, to try and protect James, she even tells him that they can no longer be friends. She doesn't want casual friendship to lead him to thinking that there's ever a shot for more. So boundary lines are drawn and James picks up pieces of his heart and walks away.

But community is community... when true community happens you never walk too far away. So eventually Carol and James found themselves in the same circles again. And like a perennial flower, all of James' love for Carol bloomed again. Once again, James approaches Carol with all of his courage. And once again, Carol sends him away. I talked with Carol I-don't-even-know how many times over the past two years as this process continued. I always thought they would be a cute couple, but not if Carol didn't love James back. How do you maintain a friendship on one end while the other end wants more? After a few cycles of this, Carol drew clear boundary lines... not only with James but with those of us who thought they would be a cute couple as well. Friendship welcomed... nothing more... don't even ask.

Last January when Corey and I were in Texas we were eating at Texas Roadhouse with some of our supporters. Eventually, we see Carol and James come in. Corey looks over at me and whispers, "Oooo... I wonder what's going on there?!" at which point... being the good friend that I am... I adamantly proclaimed, "No! Absolutely not! Don't even mention anything of the sort! There is nothing and never will be anything more than friendship there. They are probably meeting some 20/20 leadership here."

Two days later we find out they are dating... and have been for a month! Turns out, in the midst of their strict friendship, Carol found something else in her heart. Love. Amidst the cheers of victory from all those who have watched their story, on Saturday, May 9, Carol and James were married.

In the midst of the ceremony, the pastor reminded us that a wedding ceremony is not only a celebration of the love of this couple, but is a reflection of God's character. While he mentioned none of their story, I felt God began to replace Carol and James with me and Him. God reminded me that He is my Lover who has persevered through much more than James has with Carol.

The first time I talked with James after they were engaged, he said something profound. While those two years were far from fun, he adamantly maintained that, "She's worth it." As I watched these two friends enter into covenant with each other, I heard God whisper "You were worth the wait, too."

I have a story filled with parties and addictions, turning to God for forgiveness every Sunday, but always holding Him at arms' length when it came to a relationship. "Sure God... we can be friends... but let's keep our boundaries here. You can only have so much." God always stuck with me... and respected my boundaries too. He never pushed Himself into my life, but He stuck around as close as I would let Him. A few times He would remind me how much more He wanted from me, but every time I pushed Him away. Then one day... while God remained "that friend over there" I found something in my heart... or maybe I should say I found that there was something missing from my heart. I was tired, addicted, broken, and hurt and here He was offering me life, freedom, healing, and wholeness. Finally, I turned and said, "Okay... we can try this out..." And then... amidst the cheers of victory from all those who watched my story, in May of 2002, I said "I do."

Congratulations James and Carol! May your story continue to show God's amazing, patient love!