As I sit on my computer this morning, trying to prepare for the trip of a lifetime, I can't help but think "Is this really happening?" God has been working on changing my heart before I have even left for my mission trip to the Dominican Republic.
It all started some months ago when I was away at school, thinking about what this summer would look like and where I would be able to work, if I could even find a job. I also had the people from my previous trips to the D.R. on my mind, saddened at the thought that I may not ever have the opportunity to go there again for various reasons. I prayed and asked God to give me peace and wisdom about what I would do in the upcoming summer.
I went to bed and the very next morning I received an email asking me to be a volunteer summer school teacher in the D.R. for about 5 weeks! I immediately wanted to respond and say "YES I'D LOVE TO COME!" but then I thought that maybe this is just what I wanted, and maybe not exactly where God wanted me to be, (although I thought that this was a pretty big sign--I needed a blimp.) So I decided to talk to my parents about it first, thinking that they would probably tell me that I should stay home and work so that I will have some money for the next school year. Once I talked to them about it, I found out that they could not have been more supportive of me going! That was my confirmation that God did open up this opportunity for me to take it.
So now it is months later, two months into my summer, and I am getting ready to leave in TWO days! God has shown me so much in these past few months alone. I had some nervousness about raising support for my trip, although I knew if God wanted me to go, then he would provide for it. As time before my trip grew shorter I was still in need of a lot of financial support, which made me a little anxious, even though I kept telling myself to trust in Him. I kept thinking that God is just letting me worry a bit just so I get a little slap in the face when it's all over saying "SEE? STOP WORRYING, I'M ALWAYS IN CONTROL. I PROVIDE ALL OF YOUR NEEDS." And He did. He provided, (sign #3).
I love the subtle ways that God shows His power. I am weak and distraught and doubtful, but there is so much beauty in that because my weakness reveals His strength and majesty.
So here I am. Awaiting whatever there is in store for me in these next six weeks, wondering how God will choose to show me more of his character next!
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7
