We were asked to write a blog about how we were called to do this mission trip. Here is my story…
I finally gave up control shortly after starting my current job at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. I wanted God in only certain areas of my life. Other areas had a sign on them that said “please don’t touch.” One night I came home from work and said, “I’m done.” I knew that if I was going to do this (work with children with cancer and their families) I couldn’t do it on my own, because boy did I try. It didn’t work. I needed God and was ready for Him to be involved in everything.
I have always had a servant’s heart; I just love people. I was really looking forward to going to Ghana with my church but that fell through. After that I felt like I was surrounded by things that said, “GO.” Every sermon, every book, every song…made me think of going to serve. I had feelings of being spoiled and was tired of Americaness (pretty sure that is not a word…but oh well). I am so thankful for everything that I have been given but it is so easy to get sucked into our culture of always wanting. I was craving a change.
In the Spring of this year I started googling but quickly felt overwhelmed. I reached out to my sister for advice. She emailed me some suggestions…one of them being AIM. In her email she said, “AIM has a trip that is called The World Race. It sounds so you but really intense.” I looked into it and immediately knew this could satisfy my craving. It was perfect. I became addicted to reading the blogs and watching the videos of those currently serving. I was so excited and scared all at the same time. I went from “I want to leave tomorrow” to “This is crazy…I have an amazing job, the best friends, and a family that I adore.” Why leave all of this for a year?!?
Well…you really can’t explain it unless you’ve lived it. But, God has shown me numerous times (especially during times of doubt) that this is what HE wants me to do during the year 2010. Looking back it all seems crystal clear. But, going through it was very difficult. I was confused and had convinced myself that everything was simply a coincidence. I prayed about it…and I was put in my place. It is not a coincidence…it is God’s plan for me. I can’t wait to travel the world and serve others who need love and hope. I look forward to seeing what God has in store for the January 2010 World Racers!
“There is plenty on this earth to suit our needs. But there will never ever be enough to satisfy our greed. Weigh this heavy on me now until I can hardly breathe. Love through me.”
“Love Through Me” by Jenny and Tyler
