Since last August, when I started thinking about coming home that December, I had an idea that I’d be overseas again before the year was up. I knew the States weren’t home for me any longer; it is familiar being here, comfortable even, but I don’t have that settled feeling you have when you’re in the right place.
Back in January of this year God orchestrated a series of events that led me to realize not just my dream, but my passion, my purpose even. Since I was in high school I’ve loved reading books about real life. I love memoirs, biographies, and real stories of people’s past; personal accounts of life during war, genocide, famine, abuse, heartache. And more than just the story, but more importantly, how that individual endured and overcame their loss with God’s gentle hand. Sometimes they recognized their Father’s work and sometimes they didn’t; but regardless it was there all along. As a result, I developed a real love and concern for the lost, hurting and broken in this world. After praying and asking God to reveal to me what things I weep for (Lamentations1:16), He reminded me of the books I always search out at the library. And just like that it hit me: God can use this.
With that in mind, I applied with SIM, a mission organization based out of Charlotte, NC, with missionaries all over the world; I was accepted in March and plan to leave this September for Nigeria for one year serving. While I’m not entirely sure what I will be doing, I know the focus will be Jesus and loving His people. I will be immersed in local culture, local language, and I will be home, for Nigeria is my right place. And I have no doubt that God will use this year to refine me, to prepare me, and to use me, I pray.
I am in the process of raising support so I can leave in less than two months. I will need $16,500 and praise God I have over half that amount now. But in order to leave, SIM requests I have 100% of the support, in monthly pledges and one time gifts. If you are interested in partnering with me through a financial gift, please go to https://web.simusa.org/give/missionaries.php . If you would like to commit to praying for me on a regular basis, please email me at [email protected] and I will put you on an email list to receive prayer requests. Thank you. May God richly bless you as you continue to serve Him in faith.
