Missions

I first became interested in missions when I began sponsoring an Ecuadorian child through Compassion in 1998. I felt drawn to do something bigger than my limited world was currently allowing. It was good knowing my money was doing something other than buying things for me. I received letters from Jorge and was blessed throughout the entire process. In 2003, I had the opportunity to go to Ecuador to meet Jorge. It was an amazing trip. Not only did I get to meet my precious little sponsored child, but the love for foreign missions began to surge through my veins. I knew this wasn’t going to be it.

 

Inspired by the trip, I began to sponsor a little girl from El Salvador. I was truly blessed by the work of Compassion, but God was about to introduce another ministry into my life that would touch it in an even greater magnitude. In the summer of 2003, the African Children’s Choir performed at Killearn United Methodist Church. They shared that they needed chaperones to travel with the children. They were looking for teachers, nurses, pastors…and music teachers. Suddenly my Music degree and what to do with it became clear to me. I got an application, did some fundraising, and less than a year later, I found myself in Uganda, Africa, meeting a group of 24 children I would be devoting the next 15 months of my life to.

 

I traveled with the African Children’s Choir for two and a half years, with two choirs. It blessed me and impacted my life in so many ways. I had the opportunity to travel in America, Canada, Europe, and Australia. I learned how to be a music teacher and conductor, English and math teacher, nurse, pastor, and mom. I fell in love with the 49 children I traveled with and practically fell apart when I had to say goodbye to them. I thank God for the amazing opportunity that He dropped right in front of me.

 

Through all that, my love for missions continued to grow. Upon finishing my time on tour, I prayed about a chance to work in Africa. Doors opened, and then doors slammed shut. I longed very much to be overseas, doing the work that I felt God had called me to do. I felt stuck in little ol’ Tallahassee. 

 

Through all this, God was blessing me in other ways. He brought an incredible man into my life and is now blessing me with marriage, a long time prayer request. I am still learning how to be still and wait on Him, trusting that He has a greater plan. I am beginning to see some of that plan, as Drew and I have discussed how we want missions to be a part of our life. I am excited that we are going to Nicaragua this year. I can’t wait to share this passion for foreign missions with him.

 

In addition to foreign missions, God is placing in my heart a greater desire to be active in local missions. I had always wanted to do something locally, but didn’t know where or how. Drew has had some experience in this, and I’m excited that he’s sharing this with me. 

 

I can’t wait to see what else is in store for our future in missions…

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