Some people call me brave. I guess going half way across the world to live in a land where almost every aspect of daily life will be different could seem daunting, at least when you look at it from that perspective. To me though, as someone who is intrigued by language and diversity of cultures, it is very inviting. Plus, along with the surface interests is the fact that I strongly believe in a God who wants and deserves to be known by people everywhere…
My confession, however, is that one aspect of this next step in my life was intimidating. In fact, it’s one of the biggest reasons I avoided God’s nudge to be a missionary for so long. “Working” with God as my “boss” meant I had to trust him for my income. In order to go out, I needed to ask those around me for financial support. Not a fun or easy thing for someone used to being able to take care of herself.
The beginning stages of fundraising were a bit disheartening and scary, until God helped me see something. Being his ambassador doesn’t start when I land in South Asia; it has already begun. The two years there will be representing Him to those I meet. It will be sharing his love, his truth, and his heart for the lost. All of a sudden—light bulb!---I realized that’s what I should be doing now too. Rather than view every time I share at a church or meet with a friend as a potential way to raise support, I began to view it more as an opportunity to spread His heart. Every time I shared with someone was now a success, regardless of whether or not there was financial gain. One more person was reminded of God’s desire and call for His people to spread His gospel to every nation. Amazing how perspective changes things and how God can turn something frightening into a joy.