We were asked to write this blog about what to expect from this mission trip.
I have been thinking about this assignment for a long time. Each time I sit down and start to write, nothing comes to me. There are a lot of things to expect from a great pilgrimage such as this.
I expect God to move in a mighty, mighty way. There is no doubt in my mind that he is going to move. He is raising up a generation to give up everything and serve Him!
I know that I am going to be broken for the people of this world. My heart is going to break in ways I have never imagined.
He is going to teach us (as a team) to rely on one another as well as Himself. This will be our family for 11 months. In no way will this be easy, but He will give us grace beyond our own understanding.
Colossians 3:15-17 (The Message)
“Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other, in step with each other. None of this going off and doing your own thing. And cultivate thankfulness. Let the Word of Christ-the Message-have the run of the house. Give it plenty of room in your lives. Instruct and direct one another using good common sense. And sing, sing your hearts out to God! Let every detail in your lives-words, actions, whatever-be done in the name of the Master, Jesus, thanking God the Father every step of the way. “
I expect to feel the warmth and comfort of God all around me during the hard times as well as the good.
I expect that I will learn to praise Him more and more and in ways that are special between him and me.
I expect to fall in love with the world.
I expect to be completely changed and renewed by the time I come back at the end of November. My family and friends may not recognize me when I return, but I know that it was for the love of God!
I expect to make some of the best friends I have ever had on this trip. Friends who will see me at my worst, but also at my best. They will be with me as I grow in Christ, They will be with me when I doubt God. I know I am not perfect and I have a lot to learn, but as a team we will grow.
These are just a few things that I am expecting on this trip. Colossians 3:15-17 will be a key verse in my life this coming year as we grow and love deeper.
