Chance. We all have moments in our lives where everything that happens seems to be the work of chance or luck; where we are taken aback by coincidence. At the beginning of this summer I received a call from a church my father works at saying they had a chaperon back out for a mission trip to Mexico and the information for tickets were due the next day. They needed someone who could commit that evening, and I, being a recent college grad with no job, was a great candidate. I told them I would go and remember being excited about how lucky I was.
After going to church camp with both my church and the one with which I was going to Mexico, I was excited about the entire trip. I now knew the youth, who were fun and energetic, and I knew that the trip to Mexico would be full of life and an experience I would always remember. On our way to Mexico we were all ready to praise God and to work for God’s people. I had many expectations for my trip to Mexico, but never once did I expect it to be life changing. During my time in Mexico God introduced me to people who changed me. I met a translator, who spoke to my soul. He had known my pains and overcame them and gave me hope that I too would overcome. I met a staff member, whose fire for God inspired me and showed me that I could have that fire as well if I just give myself wholly to God. And lastly, I had an adult leader who constantly pushed me; who wouldn’t let me sit in the back, but supported me to share my story and still pushes me today. In one week I felt healed, inspired and encouraged; not only in my faith, but as a person. I now realize that this trip that was offered to me “by chance” was God answering the desperate prayers I had lifted up to him.
Since returning home I no longer accredit those odd, make you think twice happenings to chance, coincidence or luck. I think they are signs from God to let us know we’re on the right path. Since applying to the World Race, they happen quite frequently, and I know it’s Him encouraging me along the way.
