The act of stepping outside my comfort zone taught me that I don't need to fear anything. While traveling alone to Bolivia I had no problems. Everything went flawlessly. I made friends and was loved by all of the people I sat next to and encountered. God is the ultimate protector and sustained me throughout the whole trip. Seriously, guys, God is so good. Whether you are at home or in another country, know that God loves and is protecting you.
This trip broke me. It broke me in more ways than I can express through writing. Most of my friends come home from missions trips feeling culture shock or a feeling of longing for their host country. They can't wait to go back to the country they visited. And while I loved my trip, I am content at where God has me right now. I love being home and I love my family. If someone were to give me free tickets to Bolivia, I would go in a heartbeat. But God revealed something to me in Bolivia that I don't think I could have learned in the States.
Before Bolivia I pretty much "knew" that God wanted me to do missions. I "knew" that He was calling me to a faraway place where I would be a medical missionary and save thousands of people who don't have access to healthcare. All good. BUT, I wasn't giving God my life. I wasn't saying, "okay God, you are the author of my life and I will go/do/love anywhere you send me." In my mind, I couldn't imagine that God might call me to the United States. How could He? A place that houses the best hospitals in the world? A place where there are plenty churches and Christians to share the gospel? Could God really be calling me to stay?
Bolivia showed me that God gave me a huge gift by placing me (from birth) in the States. By zooming out and removing myself from my home country, I was able to see the need of the church in the U.S. And some of the gifts God has (and hasn't) given me might be used best at home.
God brought me to a place of complete surrender to the Lord. Of course, I still have to remind myself daily that the Lord's plans always trump mine but I can honestly say I have given my future desires to Him. I am still willing to do missions and I am [now] willing to be on mission in the U.S.
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Psalm 23:1-4
So how has this trip changed me regarding my everyday living?
1. I realize the importance of the church and I now feel that the majority of missions and service should be done through the church.
2. I know 100% that God designed me to be a nurse.
3. I see the need in the States as something that may not be material, but spiritual and often times hidden.
4. I understand (a little more) the power of the Holy Spirit and am more humbled by the fact that when He is on my side... powerful things can happen.
5. I am much more grateful for water and paved roads.
6. So thankful for the friendships in my life and for the people who supported me while I was in Bolivia.
I could write a bunch more but I don't want to bore anyone!
CHAO!
