Missions!

So, I have wanted to go to Africa so bad for a long time now, but my parents aren't for it. I decided I'd just wait to do God's work until I turned 18 and would be able to leave the country. I realized this past week that I don't have any time to waste because I have no idea if I'll live to see my 18th summer. I knew I had to get somewhere and do what I've been called asap. My parents won't let me leave the country, but they agreed to let me go to New York for about 10 days next summer on an outreach and I was content with that.

On Monday night, a missionary with Journey Men came to our cabin and spole to us. She talked about being in our shoes, not being sure if she was truly called to missions and where she would be sent. She talked about this feeling she got on the inside when she heard missionaries speak about where they had been. To my surprise, she described how I felt at that exact moment to a T. I wanted to jump up and go get on a plane right then.

One thing she said that really stuck with me is "It's not my ability, it's my availability to God."

I realized that Africa is going to be a HUGE deal for me and although I want to go right now, I need to prepare myself. I need to trust in God's timing. At that point, my heart was set on New York. Then, I came home.

My sister had just returned to China and had proposed the idea of me going back with her, a friend, and the friend's sister who just happens to be my age. My parents agreed!!! I know I'm called to work with kids and teens because that's where my heart is at, and both of these opportunities will be dealing with those age groups. As of now, I haven't decided for sure and am praying a ton about where God wants me.

I'll keep you updated as I figure things out. :)