The Adventure Begins!!
Several years ago, I visited Nicaragua for the first time. After a week of working, our team spent a sunny afternoon at a beautiful Laguna which was situated between two volcanoes. Everything surrounding this place was serene and breath taking; however, there was a ledge sitting high above the water that invited people to jump. Without hesitation, many people took the leap while others, like me, were much slower to respond. I really wanted to jump, I wanted to experience the feel of the free fall into the water below, yet I experienced hesitation and fear. Then came my turn, everyone chanting, “You can do it,” my stomach churning, my legs shaking, my mind racing with thoughts of backing out; but everything inside of me said JUMP. So, I swallowed my fear, I took the leap, and screamed all the way!
I have learned a few lessons from that experience. Often, we must face our fear, embrace the adventure, take the plunge, and embark on the journey. So many times, we think of countless reasons that keep us from risking it all. Frequently we doubt what God is calling us to do. Its hard to remain focused on the goal when so many things around us are distracting. I am reminded of Matthew 14:28-37, when Peter steps out of the boat to walk on water toward Jesus. I ponder which of Peter’s steps to get out of the boat was the hardest, was it the first step that’s taken without hesitation or the second step where he has risked it all? Were all the disciples cheering, “Peter, you can do it.” Jesus said, “Come” and at that moment, Peter trusted completely. He does the impossible, his focus was on Jesus, and on Jesus’ power alone. Although, we know how the story ends; Peter becomes distracted by the storm around him and lets fear take over. But that’s not where I choose to focus.
Like Peter, our family stepped out of the boat, fully trusting and desiring to risk it all. However, through the process of pursuing a life of international missions, there have been many storms that have caused us to fear, doubt, question, and even distract our family. But Jesus is all powerful, faithful, and He will come through.
Today, we share that our family is Nicaragua bound!! We rejoice and celebrate that God has provided the necessary funds, through the faithfulness of His people, for us to follow the call to Nicaragua. In December, after 5 months of training, we will be landing in Granada, Nicaragua ready to serve God whole-heartedly! As we walk on this journey alongside our family, friends, and partners; we worship, giving God all the Glory. Psalm 118:28-29 says: (The Passion Translation)
For the Lord our God has brought us his glory-light. I offer him my life in joyous sacrifice. Tied tightly to your altar I will bring you praise. For you are the God of my life and I lift you high, exalting you to the highest place. So let’s keep on giving our thanks to God, for he is so good! His constant, tender love lasts forever!
So, as a family of 7, we thank you for loving us, encouraging us, and investing in the Gospel – For The Gospel Is Worth It! As we stand at the brink of this life changing journey, we ask you to join us,
to live by faith,
not play it safe,
to risk it all,
get out of the boat,
take the plunge,
and together let’s watch what amazing things God will do. For HE Alone Is Worthy!
