Hello!
Firstly, apologies for the first post to be all about me, but I suppose it is pretty necessary to explain the reason why I am going! The answer to me is pretty simple, but difficult to articulate.. so here goes my best attempt:
I want to be the vessel that brings the love of Jesus and I want whoever I meet, to know that someone cares about them so much that He sent a random 23 year old girl from the United States to remind them how truly special they are. I want to be there to serve, appreciate, pray for, grow with, and support and encourage those I encounter. I want to put faces to my prayers for the other countries of the world.
And… I want to begin right now. Because in this moment, I have the desire, the vitality (well..the most I will probably ever have), and the freedom to do so.
I know firsthand that mission trips are about more than just one serving the other and that rather, it is all about connection. This connection I think is pretty powerful. Connection can change people, and change perspectives, and change the way one thinks about even themselves, and I believe that this change begets a chain reaction of a movement of God back home.
For a while it was hard for me not to think that this type of mission is only for the unique or the special. But I’ve come to an understanding that it really is meant for ALL of those who love God and for all of those who wish to bring Glory to His name. Sure, the circumstances will look different for each of us, but He moves our heart for a reason. And I am excited to be sent.
Psalms 96:3-“Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.”
So why the Expedition route?
My attention was grabbed by something dangerous and exciting. But when I looked into it I realized it is not only both of those things, but it is really an area that is under great oppression. If you don’t understand what the 10/40 window means here is a wiki answer: “The 10/40 Window concept highlights these three elements (as of data available in 1990): an area of the world with great poverty and low quality of life, combined with lack of access to Christian resources. “
To me, oppression is almost a foreshadowing that God is going to do something big. It is this weight that is beyond the oppressed’s control- Highlighting that the only one with true control is God. And I think He wants to show Himself true and worthy of Praise to many who have never heard His name. God has been moving my heart for many people in particular areas of this region I will now have the opportunity to go to and I am so excited!
And after much prayer and peace, I applied for the World Race in the parking lot of a Panera Bread ready to be used!
I do hope you guys check out the expedition route, and read about it if you’re interested.
Thanks so much for the support !
Kiana
Matt. 28:19- “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
