As some of you know, I have a tradition of picking a word to be the focus of my life during each new calendar year. At the beginning of this year I forgot to share my word on social media, but the word that God laid on my heart was vulnerability.
Making “vulnerable” my theme for 2019 scares me. I have a fear of being misunderstood or rejected when sharing my heart with others, so I am often slow to share my thoughts and feelings or I am hesitant to put myself out there when I’m around new people.
Further, I am someone who treasures strength and independence, so showing my weaknesses and allowing myself to be dependent upon others often goes against my nature. However, I am learning that vulnerability can be good, especially when used in the proper context.
I recently heard a quote by BrenéBrown: “Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity. It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability, and authenticity. If we want greater clarity in our purpose or deeper and more meaningful spiritual lives, vulnerability is the path.” Though, there is little mention of vulnerability itself in the Bible, all of these other qualities are so important to being Christian.
Stepping out of your comfort zone, facing your fears of being hurt and rejected, and letting down your natural defense mechanisms can foster some truly beautiful growth in all areas of your life when used appropriately and not carelessly. Within yourself it fosters more fruitful introspection, within relationships it fosters more authenticity and accountability, and within your spiritual life it fosters a grasp of God’s abundant grace. Here is an invitation to challenge me in vulnerability. I encourage you to hold me accountable and to urge me to a deeper authenticity.
Fundraising Update:
I have currently raised $11,430 of the total $19,200 needed! This means I am over halfway to being fully funded and I am able to depart to my first country in June because I passed the $10,000 landmark! Thank you so so much to everyone who made this possible!
Upcoming deadlines:
- July 31st, 2019 – a total of $13,000 is due (I only need about $1,570 more).
- September 30th, 2019 – the total of $19,200 is due (I need about $7,770 more).
