Missions Trip Miracles

This post is the beginning of something bigger. God is so faithful to fulfill His plan and to use each of us to preach the Gospel. I haven’t gone on a trip yet. These are just a few of the many missions trip miracles to come!

1. The Idea

In mid-December, I met with a women’s leader at my church. We were going through a book on discipleship and the topic that week was global missions. I related to every other chapter – serving, giving, leading – but missions? Not my thing. As we discussed the reflection questions, my main thought was: “global missions work is not my thing, at least not for this season. I’ve had too many transitions lately. I just need to rest.” I proceeded to give a lengthy list of requirements I’d need in order to go on a trip, such as:

• The trip would not interfere with my work calendar
• The trip would not interfere with my writing ministry or pre-determined travel plans
• The trip would have to be in a Spanish-speaking country

Part of me knew how ridiculous this list sounded. I wanted an excuse to be exempt from missions work. By the end of the conversation and study questions, I didn’t change my perspective. But by the grace of God, I left with a more open mind.

Days later, unbeknownst to either of us, the global missions team sent out the upcoming year’s missions trip opportunities. I almost fell on the floor in disbelief. There was a trip that checked every single box.

The trip? Rebuilding homes from hurricane damage in Puerto Rico. I was nervous, but excited and expectant. I knew God was up to something.

I did have one scheduling conflict, but God made a way. I clicked “confirm” on the application just days after it went live. A couple months later, I received the acceptance letter.

2. The Group

I’m a part of a team of 9 wonderful Christ followers. Before I knew anyone on the trip, I was praying for who the church staff leaders would be (if you know my story, this is anxiety-inducing) and who I would go with. I asked God to provide someone I know well to be on the trip with me. I invited and invited my circle of trusted friends, but nobody took a spot on the trip.

In April, I attended a prayer walk in preparation for Easter. I was put in a group with a family I know pretty well, and another girl Ivana. As we were walking, I randomly invited her and the women in the group to join my small group. We were just starting a new study, and for some reason, I felt led to mention it. Ivana had just bought the book and was going to read it on her own. (Did I ever mention how one of my closest friends and I met in the same way?!)

We became fast friends. The more we’ve talked, texted, and hung out together, the more I see that she is the friend I prayed for. Our stories are similar. Our seasons are similar. And now, we will get to experience this beautiful missions trip together.

In regards to the church staff leading us, I couldn’t ask for anyone different. I’m so grateful.

3. The Cost

The expenses of the trip add up and deadlines approach quickly. Usually, people ask for funding from others for their trips. But I felt led to pay for it all on my own.

God reminded me that I saved a very specific amount of money this year. One of the transitions I went through resulted in saving money. The amount was almost equal to the expenses of this trip!

4. The Task

I’m not so much of a hands-on person when it comes to work. I’m also sensitive to heat when in the sun for extended periods of time. Aside from the Lord’s leading, I seriously questioned why I said “yes” to this construction work trip.

For months, I asked God to prepare me for the climate and the tasks. But even springtime afternoon workouts at CrossFit resulted in me becoming overheated and exhausted.

Meanwhile, as my church announced and began planning for Vacation Bible School, I was hopeful. I haven’t had a good VBS experience yet and this could be the redeeming year. But, after seeing the schedule and setup, I knew it wasn’t worth the risk. Something in me knew, though, that God was going to move.

Two days later, we had our first missions trip meeting. Our trip leader Lauren explained how the local church we’re partnering with doesn’t need construction work as much as their congregation has requested a bilingual VBS program. This is the opportunity I sensed in my spirit. This trip is allowing me to have a better experience.

Not to mention, this task matches my skillset so much better: teaching, encouraging, planning and administration, and more opportunities to communicate in both languages I know.

What a blessing this all is.

5. More Miracles to Come

I have no idea what the next steps are, but I would be honored if you could partner with me in prayer as my team and I prepare for this summer trip. These are some of my prayer points:

• Preparation for traveling and for teaching the VBS curriculum
• Teaching the truth of the Gospel in a way that reaches the 80+ kids that will be in this program
• Direction with every detail; to trust God’s leading and to follow His will completely
• Safety and Protection from any danger and opposition
• Health to be strong; to be well-rested; to not get sick before/during/as a result of the trip
• Peace in every moment of this journey

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