I am beginning to realize that I have put many limitations on God's power.
Over the last few days of orientation/training here in Mexico, we have been talking about the power of the Holy Spirit. I always knew of this power, but I never realized the extent and greatness of this power.
When we arrived in Ensenada, we quickly unloaded our suitcases and then headed off to a poorer community in the area. Here, the people lived in homes made of scraps of wood and metal...definitely a contrast to the communities back at home. We traveled door to door to invite children and their families to a program at the church.
I was part of the group who shared their testimonies to a group of parents. With the aid of a translator, I shared how Jesus changed my life. Usually, I would be nervous in this type of situation, but God gave me peace as I shared with the group.
After the testimonies, the pastor prayed for each of us. Although I wasn't able to understand much of the prayer (I haven't used my Spanish in a while!), the pastor's passion and fervor for God did not need translation. I didn't need to understand the words to feel the power of the prayer. (Later someone told me he prayed that I would be protected from the vicious animals in Africa :) ) I quickly realized that despite the many differences among different cultures, God is the same.
It was humbling to visit that community. Despite the fact that they had little material possessions, they were passionate for God and went out of their way to serve us.
We leave Mexico tomorrow and travel to Los Angeles for a few days to wrap up training. Then on Saturday, we fly to Africa. Once again, I have no idea what God has in store for me, but if it is anything like what I have experienced in my short time in Mexico, I am sure my current perspective on life and God will be completely changed.
It is my prayer that I wouldn't limit God's power. Instead, I hope to be quiet enough before Him to hear His will and experience the power that transcends all understanding.
May 25, 2010
May 21, 2010
2 days until departure
The time is almost here!
In two days, I will fly to California, and then will travel to Mexico for a week of training/orientation. The entire team will fly out of Los Angeles on May 29, and make the much anticipated flight to Gabon (the flight is almost 26 hours!).
This past week has been spent preparing/packing for the next 3 months. It is my goal to pack everything in one suitcase...but I'm realizing this may be difficult to do! I even bought "vacuum bags" to help me pack more efficiently. If that doesn't work, I can always have my entire family sit on my suitcase while I close it :)
There are a few ways you can be praying for me as I depart for the summer.
- Safe traveling over the next couple of weeks
- Smooth transitioning to a new culture, climate, and way of life
- Strength to go out of my comfort zone (and not be overwhelmed)
I will try my best to keep you all updated on my trip. I greatly appreciate your continued prayers and support!
In two days, I will fly to California, and then will travel to Mexico for a week of training/orientation. The entire team will fly out of Los Angeles on May 29, and make the much anticipated flight to Gabon (the flight is almost 26 hours!).
This past week has been spent preparing/packing for the next 3 months. It is my goal to pack everything in one suitcase...but I'm realizing this may be difficult to do! I even bought "vacuum bags" to help me pack more efficiently. If that doesn't work, I can always have my entire family sit on my suitcase while I close it :)
There are a few ways you can be praying for me as I depart for the summer.
- Safe traveling over the next couple of weeks
- Smooth transitioning to a new culture, climate, and way of life
- Strength to go out of my comfort zone (and not be overwhelmed)
I will try my best to keep you all updated on my trip. I greatly appreciate your continued prayers and support!
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