It’s late on a Friday, and I’m left restless contemplating the blur that has been my life the past couple weeks. I’ve moved to Georgia to pursue an opportunity God placed in my hands to steward. To give a brief update on what all I’ve been up to, our first week of the Fellowship was primarily logistical. We learned about Adventures in Missions core values, met countless staff, and even had the privilege to have dinner at Seth Barnes’ house (the founder). It’s been awesome getting to know people here and gain insight into their passion for what God has them doing. Everyone has a heart to grow, ideas flow freely, and there’s plenty of room for God to move. It’s not uncommon to see people praying around the office or taking a moment to step outside and worship for a second.
We were told our first day we’re not seen as interns. We are seen as leaders, servants, innovators, and willing to take on challenges. Something about that struck me because it made me feel important in that people saw I had more to offer than just my creative design skills. That was quickly put to the test. Our group was split into three groups of three and we were given the task to find something at AIM that could be either newly developed or improved, and we had to create a presentation to present to head members of staff. We had 3 days over a holiday weekend and half a day to run around interviewing people.
Our team created a concept in which WR alum disciple current racers while on the field. The hope is that 1. It creates a greater depth of growth and accountability for the racer 2. Creates opportunity for the alum to continue pouring out because that servant mentality never truly decreased after being home 3. Eases the transition of reentry. A struggle that plagues many and has never really had a viable solution. Our proposal was met with great enthusiasm and feedback. It’s now in the works of developing program details as we speak. God really placed this in our hearts and it’s great to know we had a small hand in making a difference potentially on a large scale.
As for me personally I am helping a part of AIM called Beauty for Ashes / Kingdom Journeys. It’s fairly new, but they’re focused programs on teaching freedom through identity in Christ and discipleship in local villages around the world. What’s great about it is a team goes and hosts a retreat. They disciple a couple locals they see with the calling of leadership, and over time they begin to handle the reins and continue pouring into their community long after the mission team has left. The amount of stories I’ve heard of people’s lives being transformed through finding freedom in their identity in Christ and imparting that wisdom is amazing. I’m currently helping with graphic design, but I have a great opportunity to use my photography skills and create videos for them! My heart is telling stories. Specifically showcasing how all of our individual stories reveal God’s bigger story. Their heart, and saying is “your story matters.” Perfect.
While it’s great we all have a chance to grow in a skill and help develop the ministry, discipleship is the true heartbeat of AIM. It’s through discipleship people grow, are empowered, and teach. We are given the opportunity to seek out someone to pour into us spiritually and challenge us. I know it’s the best way to grow as a leader so I can in turn impart that to others to expand God’s kingdom. I have yet to find my person, but I know God will make them known to me at the right time. Currently we’re in the process of doing a little soul searching of how all our passions and skills can be combined to truly fill a need in the world and align with our purpose God has tasked us with. It’s a challenge we eagerly accept.
So, that’s my life as of late. Still getting a grasp for things, but I’m hopeful for what will continue to develop. I’m grateful to be here though at times I still doubt I made the right choice, but God has made it clear. I still have to raise $6,500 by May 15. I ask you prayerfully consider partnering with me monthly this time. If just 20 people gave $65 a month I’d be fully funded since I already have little over $3,500. Thank you for your prayers and support!
