Breaking Glass Ceilings
Have you ever thought about literally speaking the same language as an act of love? Probably not because love doesn’t come from language, yet it is an avenue. Rather, what I can gather from 1 Corinthians 13 is if I have the language ever so perfectly and speak like a local, and have not the love that grips the heart, I am nothing. Acquiring language can be difficult and these past few weeks, I’ve been able to put in perspective that learning Arabic requires that I participate by observing in ways I haven’t done before. To do more than see the world, but hear it. To listen for sounds which are... Read more
Heart of the Missionary
I’d always associate “training” with athletics because I grew up playing sports. When missionaries go to “training” it can be a mystery in regards to cross-cultural training and language acquisition. What do you learn about and prepare for? Even after many retreats, camps, bible classes, church services, mission trips and teams, debriefs, and studies, I still try to think about what lessons God has for me; although, there can always be that lingering attitude of self-confidence to which I think “training” isn’t necessary. Before coming to North Carolina, I actually thought, “I’ve been on... Read more
Home For Christmas
This month is particularly special for me because it marks one full year since I have been home from my time serving in India. Reflecting back on that time seems so far away, although I remember how impacting it was to return so suddenly without realizing one year in the future I would be preparing to launch for North Africa. So many memories, emotions, people, places, and thoughts rush to mind and it can be difficult to focus, but one thing is certain, I prayed to God I would return home with the intention to get back overseas and it is because of His grace I have this opportunity, to be... Read more
Your Simple, Truthful Statement
Recently, I attended a training that prepares me for all types of heightened situations and it has me thinking about some ideas that could be applied every day. I think, in some sense, I have a proclivity in imagining types of situations that are heightened or dangerous or threatening because I’m passionate about storytelling. And in storytelling, whenever there is conflict or a plot that raises the stakes, characters are placed in very difficult situations. This can be challenging for the storyteller; it’s their job to know what happens next. However, in a good story, clues or devices have... Read more
Prisoner of Hope
It is now the longest part of my 3-month support-raising goal; six weeks down, six more to go, and I must admit I haven’t needed to have this mindset of persistence since I was overseas or “in the field.” It’s funny because, although this culture is all too familiar, this ministry too is “in the field.” I remember encouraging team members on past mission trips, who were becoming worn out and disheartened, it’s a common experience to have during ministry, you're not alone. The honeymoon phase is over and the thrill of being in a new place, working on something new, or meeting new people, is... Read more
Wildfire or Ministry?
As I’m working through this season of ministry and raising support, I can’t help but think of the pace at which I am moving is consistent with wildfires smoking near my town. From 10 to 1000 acres in a matter of hours, I’m shocked to see the affects the fire has on the land it burns. People are being evacuated. Containment is difficult. All response teams can do while in the wilderness is wait out the fire. Wildfires are forces of nature that rapidly ravage everything. In raising support, not only do I need to keep in perspective the time and work it will take to complete, but I also need to... Read more
A New Worldview
How's it going? I go by the name Anthony, I am 25, and a graduate with a BFA in Screenwriting from Azusa Pacific University. I am also a member of a unique post-graduate program that seeks to hear, invest and serve those least reached/unreached throughout the world. I have the privilege to be sent by GoCorps with an inspirational organization to North Africa for the next two years. I couldn't be more thankful for this opportunity! In 2013, my passion to serve flourished because I pursued short-term ministry overseas in Kolkata, India - quickly understanding that although I’ve had access to... Read moreSupport Raising Update
Holy cow I cannot believe I’ve reached the halfway point in my support raising journey. Over the past 7 weeks the Lord has confirmed my call over and over again, but nonetheless it has been crazy hard. I have never been more humbled than when I’m sitting in front of my friends and family asking them to join me financially and prayerfully in this journey. The overwhelming support from the people I have met with so far has meant so much to me. Going into this summer I had it in my head that I could meet with my core group of families and then BOOM I’d have all my support without having to meet... Read more