Friends and family –
As the summer draws to a close, it is time to let you know what comes next in my life.
I knew pretty early on in my 11 month journey that God was calling me back overseas but I was unsure where or how.
And then I went to Romania. I was part of a vibrant, passionate church in a region of the country known as the graveyard to many Christian missionaries. I had the opportunity to work with children and youth as well as doing home visits to people of all ages. It was a country of deep spiritual darkness but the church was clearly bringing the light and hope of Christ.
The moment I left, I knew it was not goodbye. I fell in love with many of the local missionaries as well as the children and even the lost. I have not forgotten a single one. I am also drawn to a recently completed project – a social house designed to provide a safe place for young mothers and teenage girls without a home. This is my passion – and so my heart longs to be a part of bringing the hope and encouragement of Jesus to the lost and brokenhearted of southern Romania.
So in less than a month I go back. I will be in Draganesti-Olt, Romania working with Hope Church for 5 weeks. It will be a time to confirm for both them and myself it is where God wants me. Then after the New Year, I will be attending long term missionary training through AIM’s Center for Global Action in Gainesville, GA. The plan is to return to Romania for at least two years after my sister gets married next June.
It is a big step, but I have an incredible peace about the decision. I have no doubt this is where God wants me for this next season of life.
In case you are wondering, here are the answers to a few of the common questions I am asked regarding my decision.
What organization are you going with?
I know I will work directly with Hope Church in Draganesti-Olt, Romania but I am still doing research to determine which American sending agency I will use to be supported long term. I should know more information by the end of the year.
How are you supported?
Becoming a long term overseas missionary requires raising my own funds and support. Over the next year I will be looking for friends and family who are interested in partnering with me financially as well as prayerfully. Raising financial support has always been a daunting idea in my head, but God has made it clear this is his will for my life right now. Therefore I trust him to provide.
Why Romania? Why not serve your passions in America?
It’s about the heart. Pastor Raul of Hope Church actually helped me understand this best. 2 Chronicles 16:9 says “For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.” Raul views missions in the same way. He is searching for hearts fully committed to bringing the kingdom of God to Romania – even if we do not know the language or culture. How do I know my heart is there? Because I cannot get them out of my mind. I think of them often just as two people in a long distance relationship would think of each other. So I must follow my heart to Romania.
