So about once a month, I try to take at least a day completely away from the outreach ministry. Sometimes this looks like complete solitude, but other times it’s just a day away. Today has been that day and it has been a nice break to just catch up with several people from home and abroad, as well as just a sweet time of reflection. It’s been such a blessing just sit back and remember all the doors that have opened and how God has ordained my time out here (even the times I’ve gotten in the way).
One word that I have just been in awe of relating to God is His power. I mean really, He can do whatever He wants. Yesterday, I went to a waterfall with a group of volunteers we have here and it’s quite the trek to get there. Once we finally made it to the falls, it’s even more of a challenge to swim up into it and get close to where the water hits. I started to swim against the current to get a closer look and it took everything in me to make it across. When I finally made it to the other side, we had to make short climb right where the water was crashing, but I wanted to get closer.
A group of us were finally able to make it to where the water was crashing and we were literally in an area that was less than 20 feet wide and the top of the falls was at least 60 feet high. The closer we got to the falls, the more deafening it became. It got to a point where I was screaming at the top of my lungs and I couldn’t even hear myself. The crashing water was able to drown out even the vibrations of my own voice. I climbed up the rocks on the side and found a good perch and just sat there. I marveled at God’s power and ability to create. I was blown away that I could still hear His voice and call despite the thunderous surroundings.
As I sat there, I actually thought a lot about my failures. I remembered the times I had fallen, and even the situations I’m struggling in now, and they paled in comparison to the strength I was looking at. Do I really believe there are things in my life that God can’t overcome? He directs the water where to go and even uses that water to erode solid rock, and do I truly believe he can’t soften a heart of stone? I doubt God’s power WAY too often, but it was undeniable yesterday.
Today as I think back on it, I look at what is ahead of me. I have meetings with people in high levels of authority out here that will essentially decide whether or not I will be able to take a step forward in my ministry. I’m working with youth that are naturally rebellious and will steal any opportunity to get “ahead” in life. I’m essentially alone with none of my loved ones or the support group I lean on around me. Despite all of this, God has given me confidence to speak with anyone no matter their level of authority, the youth have grown to trust and respect me, and a community has surrounded me to protect and support me both here and abroad.
I’d say I’m sitting pretty good right now, even in the face of all that I’m facing.
God’s power is so much stronger than I can ever think of or imagine, I just need to dwell on it. I need to hold on to the promises I know are there and realize who is really in control. Sure, I could do a few things to get ahead, but the things that are happening out here shouldn’t be happening. The only reason they are is because of the power of God and His greater plan. I’m so thankful for days like today. They help to remind me I can make it…
