Walkabout

So much has happened in just four weeks, but the education I got this month is what I will forever remember about this city and about my time here. An education about how to hear from God in new ways. An education about the spiritual gifts He’s given me. An education about people in general.

One of the ways God has used and grown me this month startled me at first. I would know something about someone, seemingly out of nowhere. I’ve known why a stranger didn’t like something before they explained it. Or I would know to look for a purple dress in a book store, and sure enough there’d be a woman in a purple dress in a book store that I needed to pray for. Or I’d have a dream about someone that was totally random to me but totally encouraged them. It was a little overwhelming to have this new found wisdom, but I learned that God really does speak to me in a variety of ways…and that that’s a good thing!

Some of the more planned ministries we’ve done here have been enlightening, as well. The other day, a few of us spent the night in the park. It was rainy; it was gross; it was cold. But it was awesome. At first no one was there, and I was honestly annoyed and bored out of my mind. So I went for a walk and sat down on a bench. I was actually telling God the night was lame because nothing was happening. In the middle of this prayer, a guy named Mick comes and sits down next to me. I ended up talking to him untill 5:30 in the morning, sharing the Gospel and our life stories. I got to encourage him and let him know that I really saw him and his good heart, and that God has big plans for him. I learned that God cares about people, and that He often shows His concern for them through me.

We worked with 4 other World Race teams, including two from M squad. By the end of the month, we were one huge family. We were able to share food and community, and get to know and encourage one another. I learned that we are one body, regardless of the ministry we’re in or the “team” we’re on.