Bittersweet, the word I have used probably a thousand times over the last month. Saying goodbye to my loved ones, to my jobs, to my church, to the United States! A little bitter to say goodbye. But oh so sweet to go do what the Lord has called me to, to be grateful that I have somewhere so beautiful and loving to miss so much. Thank you God. 

Over the last couple months preparing for this trip, I’ll be honest. It has been busy! Trying to work, save money, get things in before I leave. Praying daily for endurance and balance. 

The story of Mary and Martha has been on repeat in my mind. The little nudges of the Holy Spirit within the last couple weeks, saying what you’re doing is good, but this, here, is the better thing. Time at His feet, time in the quiet place. The gentle reminder of the only place that will truly sustain and fill me. The oh so gentle loving voice of the Father saying come to me, all who are weary and burdened. His yolk is easy and his burden is light.

Mary’s better way is rooted in sitting “at the Lord’s feet and listening to his teaching.”This Jesus calls “the good portion, which will not be taken away.” This to me is the core picture of what a disciple looks like, what it's ALL about. It is not about us busying ourselves to gain his approval, but it is about receiving his words. 

The feet of Jesus is a vital place for us to be. Hearing His words, and allowing his words to take effect into our lives.

Jesus doesn't want our labor if it costs His presence.

As I step into this journey, I feel peace, excitement, surrender, and anticipation. It is all in the Lord's hands. I am only here to harvest the plentiful fields. I go as He says, where He says. Not I but Him. 

Trusting that even when I get homesick, sad, or all the different emotions and hard times. I have a God so good that will give me strength and partner with me in those hardships. 

"For where two or three gather in my name, there am with them."" Matthew 18:20 , I had such a beautiful send off with my family and friends. The Lord's hand was so evidently all over it. We had a “see you later” party, and a small commissioning at my church. I am so overwhelmed by the Spirit and gratitude for my loved ones who came together to celebrate the Lord as I am sent out to share His good news. 

I am thankful for technology and the ability to be able to call and be in contact with my dear friends and family. Thankful for the Word that is alive and true, working in and through me and every nation far and wide. Let’s go make heaven crowded. 

As you read this and my continued blogs, I pray you would be reminded that He needs to be brought everywhere. Do not be ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, just as much as His name needs to be heard in the nations I’ll be going to, it needs to be heard in Minneapolis, that small town you live in, the bar you work at, wherever you are, wherever you go, share about the One who saved you, and who continues to save others. Jesus. He was not confused when He saved us. Your life is your ministry. Stay encouraged friends. We are all in this together as ambassadors for the Kingdom of Heaven. 

All glory to God, here’s to the next 8 months.

Prayers for this group and I are very appreciated, for continued endurance, boldness, and expectancy. Come Jesus Come, have Your way.