On the World Race, we self-analyze a lot. And I mean, A LOT. In our teams, we meet daily and give each other “feedback” (calling out character traits that are not Christ-like, and encouraging each other to become more like Christ) on a regular basis. We live in constant, 24/7 community with, at minimum, 5 other people. As a safety precaution, no one can go anywhere alone, ever. Ever have a bad day, or week? Try having one when you’re always surrounded by people. Within that community, it is easy to fall into the comparison game. “I’m not loving enough, patient enough, serving enough.” I myself found that I was questioning where I fit.
For example, 1st Corinthians talks about Spiritual gifts and some, by nature, are more obvious. Frankly, I have never done more than glance at the Spiritual gifts but now find myself with a deep longing to know what mine is so I can use it to further God’s kindgdom. Not only in regards to Spiritual Gifts but I also questioned where I fit in ministry. Over the last 8 1/2 months, except for those who already knew, everyone seemed to find their “calling.” Whether it’s to return to one of these countries or reach a specific group back home, everyone has found something that they’re good at. After 7 out of 8 months of painting I can wield a mean paintbrush but my lack of apparent gifting became glaringly obvious when we arrived at our ministry site for this month and the pastor handed out the profile sheets we had completed in Puerto Rico. Mine said “Speaks Spanish.” Really? Surely I’m good are more things than just that?
Pastor Moises is our contact this month through Iglesia Misionera de Cristo. His vision for us dovetailed nicely into my search for my giftings. He has introduced us to directors of different programs and left it up to us to choose and serve where we individually feel passionate. For those who like to paint, free rein on paint colors and project. Others who like kids get to help with the daily food program and CDI which is the Compassion International project through the church. Half of my new team is gifted in worship so they have joined the worship team at church. I have teamed up with Sister Evita and have been making home visits to the elderly, individuals who, for one reason or another are homebound. There’s sister Hilsa who had bone cancer. We first celebrated her 62 birthday with her then returned so some of the girls could sing her some songs and I could paint her nails. When I finished everyone commented they were “muy sexy” (muy=very) and that before we leave she wants us to sign her bikini bottoms (a new diaper brand that doesn’t fit very well because of being low on her waist and high on her hips)
Sister Areceli or “Chelita” is going blind from her diabetes and 1 month ago had most of left leg amputated (she even let me look at the stitches and developing scar which was AWESOME since I plan on studying nursing.)
Sister Maria doesn’t eat because of stomach problems and has been living with a broken hip because doctors refuse to operate on her due to her poor nutrition. I have absolutely loved it. I leave the visits feeling energized, happy, and ready for more.
We had an awesome few days at “Month 8 Debrief” where I felt, for the 1st time, the whole squad really come together as a family. Going on the World Race automatically makes people close, but this is better, even deeper. I can’t even explain in words how amazing it has been to watch, over the last 8 1/2 months, these individuals grow spiritually, mature personally, and become part of a family of 44. We made the transition from self-analyzing to a family celebration. Instead of seeing what we each lacked, we each brought who we are and where we were at to the table and found ourselves not only loved but truly appreciated. I still don’t really know what my specific giftings are but I’m on the road to finding out and am so thankful for the Y squad family that I’m apart of, one that loves me so well and is so supportive as I continue on this journey of figuring out more of who I am in Christ. Our new team’s name is Pursuit. We are pursuing Christ and what all He has for us these last 3 months. As tired as I am, or as frustrated I get with myself, this is where I’m meant to be and I want to see what else He has for me. Maybe it’s learning exactly what my gifts are, maybe it isn’t, but either way, it’s going to be good.
