A couple of weekends ago I was had the opportunity to be part of the annual missions conference at Parkside Bible Church back in my hometown. I had such a great time reconnecting with the church family I was raised up with and had such a great influence on my spiritual growth. I was dedicated as a baby, attended Sunday school and youth group at Parkside and this year I was able to come back for an additional role in the missions side of ministry.
Myself along with six other missionary couples the church supports were able to present our passions, projects and goals in various settings. Friday night I was able to share my video and mission to the ladies of the church over a nice meal and fellowship. Saturday night I bonded with more of the church family missionaries over dinner, presented my trip during the family bible hour on Sunday and shared a passage of scripture with the congregation during the service.
I am so encouraged by the response I received from the church family and how supportive everyone is of my next endeavor. I was nervous at first, since public speaking is not one of my strengths, but learned a great saying from another missionary at the conference. She mentioned when following God’s calling it’s usually choosing courage instead of comfort. I had to rely on God to give me the words to say and the confidence to get in front and speak. I am so glad I went out of my comfort zone and could not have had a better audience.
My passion for missions started in the youth group with my first trip to Costa Rica, a couple years later to Bolivia. Those trips opened my eyes to international missions and broadened my perspective on life. I also was a student leader with the junior high youth group to New York which brought on a new set of challenges but also great life experiences. I can confidently say this church has not only sent me on trips in the past but also gave me the tools to succeed and helped me be the person of faith I am today. It was such an honor to be able to share my next mission with them and receiving encouragement in return.
2 Timothy 2:1-2
You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Jesus Christ. And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to many reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.
Thank you Parkside for hosting the missions conference and letting me be a part of the team!
