“Deep in a man’s heart are some fundamental questions that simply cannot be answered at the kitchen table … It is fear that keeps a man at home where things are neat, orderly and under his control. But the answers to his deepest questions are not to be found on television or in the refrigerator.”
art Jesus’ true identity was tested out in the wilderness. Moses received his life’s purpose while climbing Mt. Horeb. Jacob wrestled with God in a ravine outside of Mesopotamia. The desert was where Elijah recovered his strength and where John the Baptist foretold Jesus’ coming.
At first, leaving seemed impossible. Living only on what I can fit into my backpack for 11 months seems minor compared to sacrifices like leaving family and friends, and temporarily setting aside career aspirations. But worries are set aside when I’m reminded that this life is not my own, and my fears overcome when I’m reminded of the clear calling to embark on this adventure soon after I returned from Haiti.
But why? Why put myself through 11 months of cold, bucket showers, malaria-carrying mosquitoes, and live in a house that folds up and straps onto a backpack – and have to raise support to do it?? In the words of my favorite teacher, Pastor Paul Barker, ‘I’m so glad you asked. That’s what I’ve been trying to tell you all along!’
Because life begins at the end of our comfort zone. Because there’s a world that exists beyond
our city limits. Because I no longer want to hear about the affects of the Cambodian genocide on television. Because I no longer want to read about Kenyan AIDS victims through statistics in the newspaper. Because I want to be surer than ever before of God’s power, grace and presence, and because I want to grow as a leader, forgiver, and Christ-follower. Because I want to grow as a man.
I’m so thankful for this opportunity, but ultimately I can’t do it on my own. I need your help in one of two ways – or both! I need to assemble a prayer team who will commit to spending time each day in prayer over my travels, my health, political stability and my safety. Also, to cover flights to each country, living, and food (around $3 a day), I must raise $15,000 for the year*. Though I have a long way to go, my goal is to be fully funded before I leave in January.
I am very excited about how God will use me and what He will teach me through this experience. I hope not only to be a blessing to those I serve, but also to you. My desire is to go as your representative of Jesus Christ. I hope you will prayerfully consider being part of my ministry. Thank you so much!
*Adventures In Missions is registered with the Internal Revenue Service as a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donors will receive receipts for their gifts.
