Dear future Goers,
It is bittersweet to be writing my final blog post as I carry deep joy to have been able to see what God had done these past two years, with sadness as my time in Budapest has come to an end.
Biggest lessons learned
At the end of two years I take away three major lessons. First, God has shown me that He provides for me much more than I would have ever imagined He would. I came to Budapest knowing no one, joining a team that ended up being a spectacular fit, each new connection or friend felt like a miraculous gift from God, and it was truly a gift to be able to see people that way. When I was put in such a vulnerable situation, I became exceedingly filled with gratefulness as I was given more and more resources to steward well for God’s glory. This job is impossible without God’s grace and provision, and I am astounded that I got to witness Him provide for me time and time again when I did not think it was possible.
The second major lesson I learned was that we are imperfect and God uses us anyway. God uses normal imperfect people! Not just the ones with PhDs in theology! Woohoo! I mean, I’d take a PhD in theology if the opportunity arose, but it is convicting to realize that the Church is running to its full potential when the average Joe is actively living out his or her faith throughout every part of their lives. This has been comforting and awe inspiring while also being super frustrating and terrifying. Trying with the possibility of failure might be one of the holiest things you can do. That is pretty much what it looks like for me to follow God in a nutshell.
Finally, the third major lesson is that I am not alone. He uses all parts of the Body of Christ to do His work. It is not my job to do everything, connect with every person or push a timeline that fits within a given period of time. I will not see all of the fruit of my efforts, but that is not necessary to do good work, and he graciously gave me glimpses of fruit along the way when I needed it most.
What I wish I knew before I left
Don’t worry! Paul’s prayer for the Ephesians at the end of chapter 3 comes to mind. He is able to do infinitely more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us! Ephesians 3:20
Don’t forget!
Don’t forget that it is such a tremendous blessing to be able to emerge yourself into a short-term professional ministry lifestyle. It will not be perfect or easy, but it is definitely worthwhile. I would have never been exposed to the world of professional ministry had it not been for GoCorps. I encourage you to give yourself a lot of grace, and go after what God has for you with hands open in surrender. He will give you opportunities to make an impact. You will not come back the same person. Luke 10:2 says, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” You might be an answer to prayer for the team or a ministry partner you’ll be joining, and you will learn so much from them! Praise God for what is to come!