When approaching the end of a project or phase of life, I’ve always been able to count on dozens of people asking the same question – “So, what are you doing next?”
It’s never bothered me much because I’m a planner by nature. I’ve always felt most comfortable when the i’s are dotted, the t’s crossed and the details thought through before jumping into anything.
But as my days on the field neared an end and I made my way home, I was suddenly faced with an uncertain future full of endless possibilities. It was almost paralyzing to realize that when my plane touched down on U.S. soil, I had no plan – no concrete “next step”.
What did become increasingly apparent, however, was that God was calling me into a season of rest. Temporary perhaps, but after such a draining, stretching year, there would be no “next step” until I first took a moment to breathe and reconnect with the people who mean the most to me in the world.
So that’s precisely what I did.
I spent the holiday season with my wonderful family, was present for the birth of my first nephew, and took time to just be still and really seek God’s guidance for what was to come.
During this period of time, He has taken me on a journey of discovery as well. He’s used it to lead me in a very specific direction, sparked a passion in my heart, and opened doors that I never expected.
So, what’s next you might ask? Well, I’m finally ready to give an answer.
Tomorrow night I will board a bus headed to Atlanta, Georgia, where I will begin an apprenticeship program with the Center for Global Action.
In partnering with organizations like Out of Darkness (outofdarkness.org), I will receive hands-on training and experience in fighting human trafficking and the sex slave industry. I will also be a part of the efforts to reach, rescue and restore victims of the trafficking trade in the United States.
During my year on the Race, I was able to work with so many wonderful ministries and feel the heartbeat of organizations around the world, but the issue of human trafficking was one that took root deep within my heart and my desire to combat it in any way possible has only continued to grow.
With over 21 million people enslaved to the trade, human trafficking is the fastest growing criminal industry in the world today.
Please pray for the efforts to battle this form of modern day slavery and please continue to follow my blog as I post more about my experiences in Atlanta.
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* During my apprenticeship I will be considered a “State-side missionary”, and will have to continue to raise support to cover my housing, food and basic needs over the next few months. If you feel led to help financially, you can do so by clicking the “Support” link on the left-hand column of this page. Even the smallest gift goes a long way.
