God threw me a curveball this month and I’m not sure how to feel about it.
We’re moving to a new country and everything is about to start looking different… again. But, this time, even more so. There are several roles and leadership positions held by my peers on the squad. Roles such as Squad Leaders, Team Leaders, Treasurers, Worship Facilitators, Logistics Coordinators and Safety Coordinators.
Every role is important in its own way and poses much value to the entire squad. This month, roles changes begin. Some racers are stepping down, some are being raised up, some are simply switching positions.
In this process, I was asked to be team treasurer. This was shocking news to me. I held officer positions for several clubs and organizations growing up. I’ve delegated, advised and presided. Never once have I been a treasurer, which is no coincidence. Handling money in a large group setting gives me extreme anxiety.
I am the girl who throws away all receipts, doesn’t balance her checkbook and can’t tell you how much money is in her account on any given day. I can thank Janice Travis for this. She is a superstar money manager and conveniently handles all my accounts on a daily basis since she works at a bank. She is a rock star at her job, and therefore, takes care of my finances… transfers, deposits, withdraws – she does it all.
Now, I’m being asked to handle all monetary decisions and functions for an entire team of people, in a foreign country nonetheless. What?! I will handle lodging, food, transport, and communication budgets for my team. I will document receipts, create expense reports and ensure we have enough funds to survive life for a month at a time. I will handle foreign currency, remain in contact with AIM staff in the states at and manage all team spending. Talk about a lot of responsibility… especially for someone who hates math and financial calculations.
All those factors terrify me. Not because I’m incapable, but because I’m unfamiliar.
God, why are you asking me to do tasks I’m most apprehensive of? Why are you putting this responsibility on me? What did the leadership team see in me that made them choose me for this role? Questions like this kept me up at night.
He replied, “Obedience. I’m teaching you obedience.” He wants to equip me with a new skill set and add an additional tool to my tool belt. I have the abilities to be a superb treasurer. I’m organized, detail-oriented, frugal and possess critical thinking skills. This opportunity will help me tie those strengths together. Although nervous, I’m excited for this challenge.
I’m reading Tim Tebow’s book and this quote convicted me.
“Sometimes in order to make an impact, you have to put yourself in an uncomfortable position. Living with open hands doesn’t always mean the opportunities that present themselves will come with perfect timing or feel totally natural.”
He hit the nail on the head. Pray for an open mind and low stress this month as I take a new challenge and press into this role.
