I love Latin America. When signing up for the race, there were multiple routes from which to choose. As I scanned over the routes, I instantly picked out the one that had six Latin countries, which was the most of any of the routes, solely for that reason. As excited as I was, after making my decision I found myself looking over my route with the feeling that something was missing. Sometimes I would look over the other routes wondering if I should switch, but each time I couldn’t bring myself to do so.
Fast forward a few months, it was announced that there was a low census of applicants for my route, and that two routes were going to be combined. With the merge, three of the Latin countries of my original route were switched out for three African countries. I was still excited with the change. I’ve never had the desire to go to Africa, and it wasn’t something I would have chosen on my own, but I trusted this was part of God’s plan- and hey, I’m always up for trying something new!
For the last three months we have traveled through Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. I love the food, the people, and I can get by with the language. They even have stores that resemble Wal-Mart. I’ve traveled to several Latin countries before, and even lived in Mexico for a bit. It’s safe to say, that Latin America is very comfortable to me. As we are approaching our last week in Peru, the realization that we will be in Africa for the next three months is starting to hit me. Excitement isn’t the first word I would use to describe how I’m feeling.
I’ve been trying to pinpoint why I feel apprehensive. I think a big part of it is unfamiliarity. I have no idea what to expect. I don’t know the language- and what if I’m served eyeballs for dinner??? (I’ve heard horror stories) I also have to start taking malaria medication which can have some undesirable side effects. Yea, this is just really different.
We learned our assignment for Cote d’Ivoire this week. My team will be partnering with Youth With a Mission and will be helping with the construction of a church and also seeking however the Spirit leads.
Alright, so this is happening. I know He’s leading me into this. I’m taking a deep breath and trusting whatever God has here and I know that it will be good. So with that, here we go!
“Those who know Your name will put their trust in You; For You, LORD have not forsaken those who seek You”- Ps 9:10
