Some of my thoughts right now

There are overwhelming feelings as we continue on this trip… and as it is coming to an end. I mean, 3 months is still a lot of time. Regardless of having traveled less than 11 countries (as an 11in11 trip), all of this has been intense in many ways.The emotions, the decision-making, adjusting to new spaces and people, meeting, and leaving friends you’ve made along the way and keeping up with loved ones in the States. Working through instability and uncertainty in various aspects, all while taking ownership of your spiritual life, being involved in your community, and doing the mission work you’ve been called to do… is a lot. It’s intense.

And I will tell you straight up, a trip like this can and should be done with the strength of the Lord. This intense journey also reminds me that even after this trip is over: life with Jesus should also only be done with the strength of the Lord, and not your own.

Everything He has is rooted and grounded in love; His strength, His grace, His peace, and so much more, is rooted and grounded in Him.

Also, let us back track a tad: this trip wasn’t ever about traveling to 11 countries for me. 

I think back to last year on what my thoughts were back then (if you want to read it —>) Time to Surrender 2/24/2020, I smile and think, “yeah, God had me on the right track.”  It was about surrender, about being stripped away from things I wasn’t willing or strong enough to let go of unless I left. He wanted to strengthen me, so I said ”yes“ to this trip. I knew that is what I wanted, but I didn’t know how that would look like or feel. This whole trip for me has been a time of surrender… in order to receive. Yes, to receive what He’s had for me all along. He has grown my willingness on this trip, and yoooo, so much more.

It’s been hard, but I have been able to consistently, more than before the trip to: give my emotions and situations to God, bring things to my community, allowing them to be there for me, and to be more Spirit-led in all that I do. It easy to do-do-do, and to not listen to what God actually has for you that day.Intimacy with God, including my community, all while and after finishing ministry for the day/the week/the month… yeah,  it’s an all-of-the-time thing. It’s something I have spiritually and mentally grasped, and emotionally know to be so good for me. 

You are chosen and loved. He’s got you… right where He wants you, to continue to prepare you for the here and now, and for what He has in store for you. Choose Him. Receive and embrace Him, and what He has for you.

Love,

J <3