Well, it is finally here! After spending about 10 days either on the road or in training classes, I am officially beginning the next big step towards my new position as a campus missionary for h2o church at Bowling Green State University. My trip to Orlando for New Staff Training was more than eventful. I had the privilege of staying with my family both before and after the conference, but training itself was an adventure. I have never had so much information thrown at me in such a little amount of time, but I am thankful for the extensive hours and many tears shed because I feel ready to tackle this next portion of my journey. I met many new friends who have the same desire to live out the words of the great commission.
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
I was so overwhelmed with the love and support these complete strangers gave me from the beginning and I can now say that they have become like a family to me in this process. I am excited to share with them both the joys and the trials of developing a ministry team, but I am even more excited to see where God takes them once we all are released into our mission fields.
I have now been in the Ministry Team Development (MTD) process for a week now and I can honestly say, I am thankful God took the seventh day to rest because that is exactly what I will be doing! Each day has brought a variety of emotions, both good and bad, but God has proven to be constant and continually providing for each of my needs. I know that all I experience is in His plan for me, and while that may not always be easy, I know it is what is best for me. I am excited to see how this process unfolds and even more excited to see how God will stretch me and grow me as I go along.
Support based ministry will not be easy, and neither will getting to my goal. But, Paul gave a great example of what that looked like in His ministry.
In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel. (1 Corinthians 9:14 NIV)
I love reading all of chapter 9 in his first letter to the Corinthians. It is such a great reminder of how God has made this work before. I have been encouraged by Paul and his journey. He has taught me about the process, but also how to feel throughout.
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:12-13 NIV)
Not every appointment will go as I planned, but I know that whatever does happen is in His plans for me and I am extremely comforted by that fact. To know God has my path laid out for me is what will keep me going when I hit those obstacles. I’m leaving this whole process in His hands and am ready to let Him lead me.
Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. (Proverbs 16:3 NIV)
Joyful with Christ 
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