It began as a wish. This whole mission trip thing. It began doubtful and dream-like. So, I asked for direction. My Journal entries are below.
October 11, 2012
So, Jesus I have a request. I really really need your guidance in decision making for next year.It'll be my first year out of the house, most likely in college. What I WANT is to be overseas. I WANT to be traveling, spreading the gospel to unreached people. But, as of right now, I am going as far as community college, out of town at best. Jesus, I see what you are doing in the world. I see that you are moving in peoples hearts thousands of miles away from me. Please lead me. Show me where to go. You have a plan for me, right? You actually want me somewhere, right? Please direct me in some way,
Your Beloved -Mandy
10 days later, it became a reality. I went from uneasiness to confidence in a plan I hadnt even seen the beginning stages of yet.
October 21, 2012 (10 DAYS LATER)
Jesus, I know that I am going overseas. Is that alright to say or think? It is all I think about now. It is all that I KNOW. Jesus, please help to foster this idea in my heart for such a journey. Such a step with you. Help me to begin this, Lord. Use me, please. I am ready to be a faithful daughter.
Your Beloved -Mandy
And then, because the Lord is good and faithful, he continued to complete the work He had begun in me. He pointed me towards AIM. He opened the door.
December 27, 2012 (2 MONTHS LATER)
Lord, thank you! I have a hope in a future different from those around me, escape from identities and perceptions bestowed on me from friends and family, safety from forces you have already conquered, security in a set-apart life lead by an Almighty God, and peace in a heart you have repaired. I thank you for the amazing opprotunity to go overseas through AIM. Please help to prepare my heart. I pray for financial help, prayerful support and confidence in you.
Your Beloved -Mandy
And now, 8 months later, I'm going. The process was intricate yet simple. I saw what Jesus was doing, I asked Him to take me with Him, and He handled it from there. Before I had even heard of Adventures In MIssions, The Lord calmed my heart and gave me the confidence to know I was headed overseas. I had no idea where… or with whom… but I knew I served a faithful God. It took trust and patience, but He asked for my heart. Whom else is worthy?
And that is how I got here.
