What does “being a Jonah” look like?
I think the Sunday Schooler in all of us knows the answer to that.
Running from God’s calling.
And how have I been a Jonah lately?
By not writing this blog sooner.
In light of my heel-dragging being pointed out to me lately, here is that ever anticipated what-is-next-for-my-life blog!
Many of you already know, and most of you have heard little bits, but it has long been official that I will be moving down to Gainesville, GA in September to start two semesters at the Center for Global Action (also known as the internship program at Adventures in Missions). It is technically more than just an internship, it’s a chance to really explore my calling, ask questions, learn how to make my skill set marketable in ministry and out.
One of my expectations (GASP–we weren’t supposed to have those!) for the Race was understanding my calling firmly by the time I returned home. I was so confident, I told my mom to box all my stuff up–I wouldn’t be coming back! …which is why I’m now staying in my parents’ guest room and not my old room (which my parents are very graciously providing while I attempt to figure out life. THANKS MOM AND DAD!!!). In all seriousness, it was a bit of a crushing blow not knowing what to do next. I thought for sure I would learn so much about myself and God that I would have a crystal clear picture of what to do next. As usual, God had other plans.
When we were told about the Center for Global Action (CGA) on the field, I thought “yea, I could do that.” When I told my squad leaders I was considering that, they told me “yea, you could do that.” But it wasn’t until I told one in particular (thank you William Gibbs) I was considering Story Telling track and it scared me to bits, he told me “yea, you need to do that.”
See, I’ve always loved taking photos, telling stories, sharing my experiences and those of others. People sometimes asked me “have you ever considered doing photography full time?” I’d laugh it off saying “no, it’s just a hobby…” but really what I meant was “I’m not good enough to do that!” I have friends who are photographers, even thinking to put myself on a level below them terrifies me.
So that’s why I’m doing this.
I am doing something I am genuinely intimidated by. I’m going to learn new things I never thought I’d have the opportunity to learn. I am leaving my family and friends for possibly even more unknowns than I did before the Race.
I don’t know what exactly I’ll be doing in Georgia, but I know it will be a lot of learning, growing, and experiencing. I don’t know where exactly I’ll be staying, but I know it will be in a supportive, challenging community. I don’t know exactly how much I need to raise, but our gracious providing Heavenly Father will get me there.
To be a part of my support team, click the “Support Me” link on the left. It’s all right if the funds are still allocated towards the World Race, so long as my name is there they will get it to me. As far as I know, I need to raise about $1,000/month and I am already well on my way to meeting that goal. But more than anything, it is your prayers that I long for. Please pray that the Lord will use this time and open my stubborn ears to hear His calling loud and clear. Please pray that my heart will be ready to do His will, whatever that looks like. Please pray that in the time leading up to my departure I will faithfully seek His face daily.
As always, feel free to contact me with any questions or comments. I love talking to the people who have made all of this possible. THANK YOU for being the means through which God is working on me, and through me reaching the lost.
