Christi Haag, as the daughter of a children’s home pastor, has dedicated her life to ministry for over 45 years. In that time, she has learned a lot about partnering with God. She has seen how one little word opens doors, providing a path forward, even when all the next steps remain unknown. She has also learned how simple the process can be when you love Jesus, and that no mission is too small.
This is how she and Jerry, her husband and One More Child President/CEO, have been able to effect positive change in the lives of vulnerable children and families around the globe.
First Say, “Yes”
According to Christi, partnering with God begins with only one word – yes.
Having spoken to thousands of women across the world about the power of prayer, it is a topic she takes seriously. But Christi rocks back in her chair, laughing about how early in their marriage she and Jerry would make pros and cons lists when facing a major decision. They liked to plan.
Now Christi says there are no lists, their only prayer is that they can say ‘yes’ to whatever God asks.
“Saying ‘yes’ on the front end is so liberating,” Christi says, her genuine smile and blue eyes shining. “I walk around with my hands raised all the time, and I just say ‘yes.’”
With every ‘yes,’ she promises your boldness will grow. God will give you another opportunity each time you are faithful to say ‘yes.’ God will provide a path forward even when all the next steps remain unknown.
Soon you will be looking over your shoulder, saying, Wow, how did that really happen?
The Next Step is Jesus
Christi’s life verse is Matthew 6:33 where it says, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” She paraphrases this as just “run after Jesus.”
Christi describes how her life gets simpler and simpler the more she falls in love with Him, and it frees her up to just say ‘yes’ and ask what the next step looks like.
She is quick to point out that when you run after Jesus it is also important to surround yourself with people who are doing the same who may be a little farther ahead in the race than you: mentors.
“I’m big on surrounding yourself with Godly women,” she says. “Satan loves to isolate us. He wants us to feel alone. Seek wise counsel – surround yourself with other strong believers.”
There Are No Small Missions
Often, Christi talks with women who want to start non-profits, but she is quick to point out that every woman is invited to participate in something God is doing – because every woman has a mission field in their own home. Nothing is too small or unimportant with God.
“Character is made in the small moments. Someone might never ever get to be on the stage, but speaking into their child’s life is the number one mission field on earth.”
Christi encourages you to say ‘yes’ right where you are – to put your faith into action – because everyone has spiritual gifts, and if you are lacking, God will equip you. He will also tell you where your place in His story is and what you are supposed to do next.
That means there are things that all of us can do for the children of the world – no matter what the mission is or what it entails.
One More Child offers several opportunities to partner with God and His people right where you are, so you do not have to wait to say ‘yes’ in joining God in what He is doing to reach the vulnerable children and families we serve. Learn more now.