When I was sixteen years old, I really sensed the Lord leading me to Africa to make disciples for Him. I was not sure where to go, the timing of it, or why He was leading me there. In my head, I figured the Lord was calling me to live my entire life in Africa after college, not just go on short term trips. Finally, the Lord provided a way for me to go to Kenya when I was eighteen years old. The Lord gave me a deep passion for the people of Africa. I told all my close friends and family that I was going to be a full time missionary in Africa, and to be prepared that I was not going to have the “normal” life of an American. If you knew me then, you understand how much love the Lord gave me for that continent. When I was in Kenya, I fell even more in love with missions and Africa specifically. I loved the simplistic lifestyles, the zeal for the Lord, and the longing they had to know Jesus more (and of course sweet little children). After Kenya, I started seeking the Lord to go on another trip to Africa to a different country and different ministry; two years later, He brings me to Swaziland to love and make disciples of orphans. Before going to Swaziland, I expected to fall deeper in love with Africa and the future life that I would live there, but the Lord had different plans. He brought me to Africa again to fall deeper in love with Him. His plan for my life is so much more than I can fathom. He revealed to me that I was putting Him in a box by restricting Him to one place.. Africa. God calls us to certain places for certain seasons. Throughout this trip, it had been prophesied over me that I will go to Asia, specifically Cambodia at some point in my life. I was utterly shocked and laughed at the thought of not living my entire life in Africa. I told that person she was crazy many, many times, but the Lord keeps giving little glimpses of the future that include Cambodia in it. God has a funny way of revealing parts of His plan through people, His word, and His still, small voice. I would encourage you to not put God in a box. He has incredible things planned out just for you. Always seek Him out and listen for His voice! This is Jesus. He is full of love and grace in this life. He wants to prosper us! Jesus completely rocked my world on this trip. I am wrecked for the ordinary now. Praise be to Jesus for how faithful and loving He is to His children.
