We have come to the end of June, and all I can truly say is, WOW! What a month of challenges and growth this month has been. It all began in Uganda.
We were a team of 9, all coming from 7 different nations, going to impact the country of Uganda; that in itself is pretty incredible. Who were we to fly across various countries expecting to really DO WORK in a country that none of us came from, but people willing to be used by God – and boy, weren’t we. We had the opportunity to visit the slums, houses of different families, and various churches. With each visit, we were able to partner with God in ministering healing to MANY people in need of healing, and we also led MANY into taking their first steps to following Christ. WHAT?!
When I say we went into Uganda to do work, I mean we REALLY did some work for the Kingdom of God; it wasn’t all easy, that’s for sure. There were many moments of difficulty and chaos, however I’ve learned that in the moments of chaos, while others are freaking out, I am the most calm. I actually find it easier for me to find peace in the moments of chaos than when things are seemingly more calm.
There are a few verses that have been very present in my life recently:
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
John 16: 33
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14: 27
John and I were hanging out quite a bit before this trip to Uganda. It was during this trip that I really came to realize that His peace truly sustains me in moments of chaos. My only problem is trying to remember this in the “not so chaotic” moments, because His peace is sufficient for ALL times.
And you know that verse in Philippians that says to not be anxious, or worry, about anything, instead, pray about everything? Yea, that verse exists, but let me tell you, at times I quickly forget about it.
This week, we had our English camp for the 100% Life Association we have here at the YWAM Madrid base. The theme for the week is Art – we learned about collage art, drip/splatter painting, cartooning, watercolor art, and nature collage. We have thoroughly enjoyed ourselves, the students and the leaders alike. However, getting to this point was not easy for me.
I am a teacher, so naturally the responsibility was handed off to me, as if this is my thing. However, I have never led a camp, I am usually the one that follows the amazing outreach pastor from my church, my dear friend PL, and just bring in the “detailed/organized” work. This time, I wasn’t able to “follow” anyone, but had to be the “head” of this whole thing. Peace, yea, what is that?
It’s crazy how something that is more “my element” brought me more worry and stress, than something that was far from my reach. The things that I know I cannot control, I find the most peace, because I truly just leave it in God’s hand and trust Him to show up. However, the things that I know about, I tend to want to control and forget that I can trust God to show up in that too. Which of course, leads me to stress more – I’m crazy that way.
I am so thankful that God loves me so much, though. He tends to remind me that “He’s got this” every time I get a little too far in my head. I am so thankful that He does; I am so grateful that He has so much grace and patience with me – Lord knows I need it.
God has big plans for my life, and I love seeing those plans coming together. I continue to be pushed out of my comfort zone, but He remains right there with me the entire time. I’m truly living the best life!
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