Whelp, first blog. Not sure who decided it was a good idea to ask me for a stream of consciousness but, here we go.
*flash backs a few years* It all started one random night in downtown Houston. I was catching up with an old friend before a night on the town. She was telling me about the crazy opportunity she was walking into by taking a new job in Germany. She would be putting her degree to use by partnering with local nonprofits while also getting to share the gospel with those who may not be given the opportunity to hear otherwise.
That was it. I had been searching lately. It's hard to explain, but I wasn't ready for the mundane. I was 22. Single. No attachments. I wanted to go, to see, to experience something greater than myself. Something eternal. And just as I had accepted a training position with the Houston Fire Department, my mind had been blown by a more exciting, worth while, eternal opportunity.
The next few months would be spent with one foot in each camp. Staying in the states, working a noble, steady, secure job with HFD. I would be in control. Savings account, planning for retirement, living the single life with my friends, vacations, a house, the works. On the other hand, I was dreaming of dropping everything and going. Abandoning all Earthly security. Laughing at the constant, "what will you do when you get back?" I was terrified yet excited. Nervous yet hopeful. And worst of all, I felt incredibly unqualified and even still the overwhelming desire to be faithful and obey.
And now, here I am. In Minnesota, at a week long training conference, daily choosing to be obedient despite the constant thoughts of doubts and unworthiness. It has been a challenging yet wonderful week filled with openness, fellowship, and most difficult for me- vulnerability. I have actively chosen to to open up to these "strangers" and be vulnerable with the doubts and fears only to find out that they are abundantly felt with each of them as well.
At the start of 2017 my pastor at Community of Faith, Mark Shook, challenged us all to focus on a word. One single word. For me, it was obedience. I had no idea what that would come to mean. But now I have accepted a position that will place in Mexico City for 2 years. Away from my family, my friends and my comfort. So if you would like, join me on this roller coaster ride of life as I battle my internal struggles, rejoice in the ever present love we have in our Father, and with his help bring the lost youth of Mexico City into an eternal redemptive relationship with Jesus Christ. Let's begin; a journey of obedience.
Happy Reading and may the adventures continue!
Thanks and Hook'em Horns,
Zack