As I wrote the title of this blog I was taken to that moment when Grace, my niece learned to walk. She stumbled a bit, as most children do, struggling to balance yet knowing that it was all about putting one foot in front of the other and then really taking that step in confidence trusting in what she had learned. That is actually what this year has felt like, learning what it means to truly trust in the Lord, to walk in the gifts HE has given me and to really develop my identity in HIM. I have struggled at times and still do. I have been used by GOD in ways I never thought possible, and desire to continue living this way. I am still amazed at how far HE has brought me and I know that there is more.
It is just the beginning, and yet, it is our last month on the race. I can’t believe time has past so quickly. Many people are wondering what their next step will be. In fact, I am positive some of you are wondering what I will be doing next. That may be one of your first questions. For a while, I didn’t have a clear answer, as I was praying for direction. But then I received that next step, that direction. I was recently accepted to the G42 Leadership Academy in Mijas, Spain.
This has been something I have been praying a lot about. The thing I battled with most is how quickly I will be heading there. I was accepted for the January 2010 term and it is a six month program. Many of you know how I enjoy traveling, but honestly, after 11 months, my heart is missing my family and friends at home. I had hoped to have more time with you all, with my parents, with Jess, Amos, Grace, and Tyler, but I know that I must walk in obedience. I know this is where I am to be. And I trust in GOD’s guidance rather than my own plans.
This past year I have really learned about the passions GOD has stirred in my heart for the abandoned, rejected, and lost. GOD has used my voice to speak truth to villages and to intercede for many. HE has placed in me a desire to learn languages to translate the gospel and tell of HIS great Love and Mercy. HE has healed my broken heart to where I am no longer hindered by scars but am able to relate,with some understanding, to others who are hurting. I remember that incredible moment in Lesotho where I felt GOD moving me from a life of just existing, to much more. HE brought me freedom that I may surrender my life completely to HIM. My voice wants to speak of HIS character. My arms want to share HIS peace. My heart wants to show HIS Love. My feet want to go where HE sends me.
I have spent the year learning to follow HIM and now I must walk that out.
So why G42? “The 42nd generation is a network of Christ-followers with the mission to plant churches & ministries and to spread the Kingdom of God around the world-to inspire & develop leaders & radicals who are passionate about the poor, orphans, & laying their lives down for Christ.” The academy covers courses such as servanthood, leadership, church planting, and various other topics aimed to prepare us to walk out GOD’s calling on our lives.
I invite you to learn more about this six month program. I welcome any questions. And I thank you so much for your support this past year as GOD has moved in incredible ways. I am looking forward to sharing these testimonies with you. And invite you to continue being an important part of this journey.
If you would like to learn more about G42 please visit the G42 website (http://www.g42leadershipacademy.org) and learn about what they are doing. If you are interested in partnering with me and supporting me financially for any amount (as I am working on raising $1,000/month for tuition), please visit the “Donate” page, click “Intern Support” and enter my name. And if you feel led to continue praying for me, I greatly welcome that.
