I have a degree in Spanish, but I am not fluent yet. I also have an inner pull, contrary to my reserved nature, to help people. I have traveled to Mexico and Belize in Latin America before, and I was interested someday to live in a Spanish-speaking country for a year, perfecting my Spanish. I was researching opportunities for the future when I decided to look at the World Race, since a few acquaintances had participated in it. Lo and behold, there before my eyes was a route dedicated to Spanish-speaking countries. However, the launch date was far sooner than I wanted. I had just been tossing out ideas and here sat a golden opportunity that looked like my name was stamped on it. Going through Latin America with a backpack for 11 months helping people? Bring it on!
At the beginning, I did not take it seriously and was angry because I thought it was an impossible dream. Gradually, I began to see that it might be possible. I wrestled with it for a long time. So many outside factors had a bearing on my decision.
Finally, God directed me to a Bible chapter about Him working through ordinary, fallen people. The verse of the day was Isaiah 41:8-10:
“But you, Israel, my servant, Jacob, whom I have chosen, you descendants of Abraham my friend, I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, ‘You are my servant’; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
I felt a peace I had not experienced for a long time. If God could take care of Israel, He could take care of me. It was then that I began to think He was calling me to go.
Terrified? Yes. Willing? With God’s help. Way out of my comfort zone? Ha! My comfort zone got kicked into the ionosphere.
God, if you will go before me, then bring it on.
