The last few days has been spent adjusting to jet lag, squad growth, and learning the area. Today (1/23) starts our official first day of ministry work here. So what does ministry work look like in Australia? Believe it or not its playing beach volleyball, painting in the park, and throwing BBQs. There are over 2 million tourists coming through Byron Bay every year. A large portion of these are backpackers making their way through the world to try and find themselves. By setting up volleyball tournaments, enjoying an afternoon in the park with strangers, throwing BBQs, and yes even by surfing we are creating opportunities for relational ministry. I’d say there is no better way to find yourself than by finding your identity in Jesus Christ.
This last week has been a week for team growth and self-growth as I have been walking daily with the Lord. Early in the week I remembered a song from my camp days at Brookhill Ranch. One of the lines in the song says, “melt me, mold me, fill me, use me.” This week has definitely been a melting week for me, and not just because there is no ozone layer above Australia. Being vulnerable with others is a weak point for me, but I am excited for the weeks to come as I see where it leads.
Prayers for open hearts and receptive minds as my team and I interact with locals and travelers in the coming weeks.
