Following the Lord’s call is a hard thing to do. Involves a lot of change and uncertainty that an OCD person like me is not always ready for. I need a plan, a schedule, written out fifty times before I go through with it because I need to be absolutely certain that everything is set in place. When I decided to go on the world race it was the complete opposite of everything that I am. Sleeping in a tent, bugs, sleeping bag on the floor, new foods, new countries, new adventures, new people……talk about a big leap.
While going through my things all I could think about was selling my possessions to follow Jesus. I get asked why I’m going on this trip; honest reason I want to see the world and God’s creation. But I also get to serve. There is no remarkable awakening that came over me and I absolutely needed to go on this trip, no honest and true, I want to serve and I thank God everyday for blessing me with a servant’s heart. I want to serve His people near and far (of course in this instance it is the people far). How cool is it to not only serve His people but serve while admiring His creation of the world. It is hard to wrap my mind around that I have the chance to do both.
I thought it would be hard to sell my things, and granted there are some things that will be kept in storage because of the memories. But Americans are spoiled and grow these weird attachments to material things and at first I did not want to sell all of my things. They are mine why do I have to get rid of them? However as I continued in this process I realize that these are the things of the world. It is a much better treasure to sell my possessions and follow the Lord. Honestly I never thought I would literally be living out this piece of scripture. It is one of those that you read and think, “yes of course I would do anything to follow Christ,” easier said than done. But again when the bigger picture is seen on the wide screen of life we realize that we are blessed to have such materials as a car, house, couch, TV, bed, etc. And guess what….I get to give all of that up to spread the gospel…..how rewarding and exciting! Can’t wait to see the Lord work in everyone involved on this journey!
I may be somewhat biased, but I honestly am SO incredibly proud of the beautiful young woman you are. I am SO SO excited for all that you are going to see and do and the blessing that you’re going to be to so many people. I L.O.V.E. you way past the moon!!
Erica has one of the biggest hearts I know. She always shows a Christlikeness in her inclusivity of those in need. I am very proud of her for making this step to get outside of her own comfort and fulfill the great commission. I know she is going to be sharing the truths of scripture with those who need to hear and and sow seeds into their hearts for God to grow.