One Year Ago

A year ago this week I was in Puerto Vallarta on a women's mission trip. It was there, a year ago tomorrow, that God made it absolutely clear to me that the time had come for me to pursue His call on my life for full-time missions.

When I look back over the past year, I realize what a journey He has brought me through. It has been challenging at times, but I have grown a lot through the experiences of the past year. I am very blessed.

Day 16: Puerto Vallarta

Over the last year and a half I have been so blessed by opportunities to work alongside missionaries Preston and Courtney in Puerto Vallarta. I quickly grew to love the members of the new church, La Esperanza de Vallarta. While I was in Puerto Vallarta, God broke my heart for the lost in a deeper way than I have ever experienced before. As I pray for the people of Puerto Vallarta, my mind is filled with the faces of the hotel workers in my English classes last summer. They are so precious to me, and as far as I know only one of them is a Christian. I pray that God will work in their hearts and that He will continue to bless the ministry that He has started through my dear friends Preston and Courtney.

Day 11: Mental/Emotional Preparation

I know that international missions can be very tough on a person mentally/emotionally. Being separated from family and friends and immersed in a completely different culture can take its toll on a person. I experienced a little of that last summer in my apartment in Puerto Vallarta, so I know that it is crucial for me to rely solely on Him to meet these needs and to prepare me in advance for potentially challenging situations.