No, I’m not blogging about Stevie Nicks.

There is another young woman who is on the edge of seventeen…literally. Her seventeenth birthday is this Christmas. As in December 25, 2011.  Simone–who was born on Christmas–decided to give up some of her gifts and instead raise money for orphans through Children’s HopeChest.

She’s already reached over 80% of her goal to raise $1,000. I say we put her over the top and MORE today!

>>Make a Gift to Help Simone Change Stories for Orphans in Africa!<<

It is always powerful when we are led by our youth. I had the chance to ask Simone a few questions about why she wanted to join Change Their Story.

Tell me how you decided to get involved with Change Their Story.

I had begun a journey this August and have committed to pray for Africa and how the Lord wanted to use me.  The  Lord has given me a love for these beautiful people that I cannot wait to meet. I was shocked when the Lord had told me to talk to a woman I babysit for about Africa.  I was waiting for the Lord to open the door and at the end of November the Lord allowed me to hear her life changing experience through partnering with HopeChest in Uganda. I was so excited to get involved because I knew that this was my opportunity to give love to orphans that I will hopefully meet one day.

So after being inspired, what did you think about raising $1,000?

My biggest fear was that  I would not raise enough money by the deadline, but through giving the Lord has shown me that He will provide every need that I have. The Lord has removed doubt and allowed me to trust Him in this process. I have been amazed at how the Lord has brought in an abundance of funds and how I am over 80% to my goal!!!

Have you thought about where this might lead?

I hope that this is only the beginning of making a difference in the lives of children in Africa because this has been a walk of faith full of blessing. I have a heart for missions so this has been a great foundation and introduction to allow people to know that I care about these people even when I haven’t met them. Luke 12:48 has been an inspiration,”When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required.”

We want people to go to your site and make a gift. What would you say to encourage someone who is thinking about making a gift to support you?

Thank you for opportunity to serve and may God be glorified through every donation. I have already begun to see the blessings that the Lord wants to pour out to those who are faithful in giving to the less fortunate. So I challenge you to join me in this journey and trust the Lord as he brings in funds to change a life. Deuteronomy 24:19, “When you are harvesting your crops and forget to bring in a bundle of grain from your field, don’t go back to get it. Leave it for the foreigners, orphans, and widows. Then the LORD your God will bless you in all you do. Share in what you have been given and receive the blessing the Lord has to lavish on you!

Thank you Simone. I am encouraged by your testimony, and by the fact that at age 16 (almost 17), Simone can articulate the essence of God’s heart for the Gospel. I am inspired by her answers and encourage you to support her with your giving this Christmas.