Crossing Cultures
No matter where you are in the world, you have a culture. We all view the world through our culture and experiences. In training, we are learning how to be aware of other cultures by knowing our own. When entering another country, you will encounter different cultural preferences. However, if we are unaware of the basic cultural differences, we can actually cause much harm and frustration, especially if we don't come into conversation with humility. For example, in America, we are taught that looking someone in the eye is a sign of respect. Meanwhile, in China, eye contact is… Read more
Lessons from Support Raising
When I knew the Lord was calling me to go on the mission field, the idea of raising support was one of the biggest hindrances. But now having gone through the process, I am beyond thankful for the experience! Here are several things I learned during support raising: Focus on building relationships. Although we need funds to be able to go overseas, it is even more important to have relationships that keep you rooted in truth. When you are facing a challenging situation and need encouragement or prayer, having a team of ministry partners in your corner is invaluable. Remain confident in God’s… Read more
Lessons from Becoming a Goer: We are all different…God can still use us
This week marks my second week of support-raising full-time. At the beginning of the month, I attended GoWeek during which I had the pleasure of gathering in Minnesota to meet all the other Goers from around the country and learn how to launch into my current season of support-raising. I went into GoWeek feeling excited to be surrounded and supported by folks who are making similar decisions with their lives (i.e. people who love Jesus so much they said yes to going into international missions), but I was also nervous that I wouldn’t fit in with the people I would meet. I love Jesus with my… Read more
Preparing for Departure
I have been thinking about this day for almost a year. How would I feel? Would the nerves overtake the excitement? I am still unsure of all that the day will hold but the Lord has been so faithful even when it hasn't always felt like it. As the day draws near for departure so does the Father. This is my last full week with my family before I leave. I said "See you later" to my college friends and shared many lasting memories with those I love. After so many goodbyes I began seeing this day as one of fear, one of leaving behind loved ones, missing out on experiences,… Read moreHow Did I Know?
One of the most common questions I asked God is, "What do you want me to do with my life?" or "What is Your will?" I always thought there would be some big out-of-the-sky answer like a huge Revelation. I knew there were some things I really liked to do but I didn't want to do something that I just wanted, but I really wanted it to be His will. I want to preface, since I was a kid I have always wanted to be a missionary, so I have thought about this many many times I just wasn't sure if this is what God wanted for my life. I heard a pastor talk about trying the Lord's will,… Read more