I just recently passed the two year mark since I made my first trip to Costa Rica in January 2010 that was my vision trip for later moving here in April 2010. In these two years I have learned so much.
I have faced times of humility where I’ve gotten egg all over my face, usually related to computer problems that were over even my head. I have been asked for advice on issues I have no experience with and faced trials of different kinds.
I have been blessed with a great team, strong leaders and most of all Godly people that surround me. This group of missionaries is God-fearing, obedient, courageous but at the same time fun, imperfect and friendly. We look out for each other, while at the same time stressing each other out at various times. We’re human.
I have learned the importance of being obedient. That it’s not about my comfort or my desires, it’s about doing what the Lord asks me to whatever the cost. In my case, this has meant saying goodbye to my girlfriend as she serves in Kenya for two years (though I’m happy to say we are doing quite well). It’s also meant struggling to understand why our director’s wife, Su, has struggled and suffered from the pain of Tarlov cysts in her lower back. It has also meant sacrificing sleep to spend more time in God’s Word.
But all in all, I find myself walking the path less traveled more closely, clinging to Jesus in a world that is increasingly falling further away and finding myself awestruck that my Father in heaven chooses to pour out His blessings so richly on someone so undeserving like me. I have a greater appreciation for grace, and a large hunger to be loving to those around me daily.
And as we enter this very political year of 2012 with Presidential elections, and the media tries to make you believe as each time that “this is the most important election of our lifetime”, no human leader can heal the wounds of our nation or our world. Only God can do that. Pray for opportunities to open your mouth and share the Gospel with others, that more will put their hope not in this world, but in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
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