As a kid whenever I was asked what I wanted to be when I grow up missionary was usually the answer. This desire mainly came about from reading various missionary biographies growing up. Probably my favorite missionary was Amy Carmichael. As I got older the idea of leaving home and what was familiar seemed less appealing so I took a detour from my childhood dream during college and studied psychology and counseling. I also became involved in the criminal justice system working as a victim advocate. Working in this area and doing my own research on the abuse of people in this country and around the world put me back in the direction of wanting to maybe go abroad.
I'll skip the gory details but eventually I couldn't stop ignoring God. So I went on my first non vacation trip (to teach English) overseas to China in 2008. After that I decided to go back to China for a year to continue teaching. From there I transferred to Laos and taught there for a year and a half. Throughout these trips I always worked on a team and saw my faith (and struggle) with God change and grow.
So again skipping to my main point Who and what brought me to the world race?
Well I'm guessing Who is obvious. But a few of the things He used to get me here included my previous trips abroad, encouragement from church (something I almost gave up on at one point), and a desire to know, understand and help those who are hurting in various ways.
I believe the good news of Jesus Christ is what has and continues to change this world for the better. And I want to continue seeing and being a part of this. God pointed out the following verse months ago and I believe I will see this "work" on the race and hopefully the rest of my life.
Look among the nations and watch – Be utterly astounded! For I will work a work in your days which you would not believe, though it were told you." Habakkuk 1:5
