There are countless things in this world (and outside of it for that matter) that I am interested in. Tell me about photosynthesis, or the Fibonacci sequence. Tell me about Psychology and behavioral science. Tell me your story or the name of your dog, I want to know! But one thing I’ve never truly had a desire to delve into, apart from absolute necessity is… finances. MONEY. Oh, how I dislike talking about money. The word “budget” makes my brain hurt. So you can imagine how I felt when a couple months ago, at training camp, I was asked to be my team’s treasurer.
Initial reaction? RUN! Physical reaction? Probably a bit comical. Thoughtful reaction? …Maybe this is an opportunity for growth. I cautiously accepted the role and, to be completely honest, stressed out about it until launch. Aaaand possibly a little bit AT launch. Sitting through the first training session, my mind was spinning. It’s like another language. It’s one thing when you’re researching for personal growth, a whole other thing when in a few days you will be stewarding finances for a team of people who you just met a month and a half ago. But still. I know that it is when I am placed in the most uncomfortable, unfamiliar situations, that God grows and refines me in so many tangible and intangible ways.
It is now the day before we leave for Spain. (Eek!) This afternoon, Katie, my Squad Admin spoke to us about stewardship. About how money isn’t the primary focus, but instead, learning how to effectively manage the things that God has entrusted us with, whether it be time, emotions, money or anything else. It was a focus that I needed. There’s going to be a learning curb and I’m going to need a lot of grace. But in the meantime… I’m not running. This is not the first and ions from the last place I will be challenged in this year. But I’m reminded of one of my favorite poems from Annie Johnston Flint:
“He giveth more grace when the burdens grow greater,
He sendeth more strength when the labors increase;
To added afflictions He addeth His mercy,
To multiplied trials, His multiplied peace.”
You should look up the rest. It’s great.
Please pray for me and my team as we grow in our roles and begin this adventure together tomorrow!
