Three Years of Education

I lie down and slept; I awoke, for the Lord sustains me

- Ps 3:5

I will both lie down and sleep for you alone O Lord make me to dwell in safety.

- Ps 4:8

He will not allow your foot to slip; He who keeps you will not slumber - Ps 121: 3

After my first year in china, I went home with two major concepts on my heart:

1) that God is working while we sleep

2) that we are all missionaries.

After year three those two things are still huge in my heart.

I live my life for the gospel in China.

Do you live out of obedience or complacency?

Scripture tells us that there are certainly those who have been gifted with specific gifts and talents, but never does scripture ever indicate that some were called to “go and make disciples” (Matt 28:19) while others are to live contentedly where they’re comfortable.

God doesn’t sleep. He never sleeps. He is always at work. Always protecting. Always providing. Always was, always is, always will be by our sides. And always El Shaddai - powerful enough to take care of his children.

So even while you’re resting and recuperating from the struggles of life he’s still working. But have you ever stopped to consider what he’s doing? Ever asked? Have you ever considered how much more he would do if only his people would ask? (2 Chronicles 7:14)

We have all been called to be disciple-makers in our own little world’s – and that starts with prayer.

These are the things that Abba has been teaching and showing me this past year. He has given visions of lives changed for His glory, and broken relationships to be used to drive us closer to him. Most significantly, this year has been, I believe, a year of kind of commissioning for me. The call of God to lead others into His presence through music has never been more clearly spoken to me. God has pulled away from many of the distractions of life to cleanse and purify my heart, mind and life. Finally, this year was ended in my acceptance of His call to be where he called for whatever purpose he places me there – even when all I can do is pray.

My roommate and I recently moved into a new complex in a new neighborhood that He clearly told us to go. His intentions here are not fully known to us, but there is an assurance that His presence is even here and at work. We’re making friends and building relationships that allow for growth and revelation.

I have not been sent to China by the church to be a missionary, but I have been sent by God to be His ambassador. It’s terrifying to think on at times. It’s hard most of the time. In a conversation had with someone very dear to me, I was reminded that living in comfort and convenience (for me or for others) does not equate God’s direction and/or blessing. Things could be a lot easier and practical for me if I did them differently (ie, finishing my degree, getting married, speaking to people about God’s love), but Jesus said “if you love me, you’ll obey my commandments” and I’ve been commanded to China. I don’t know why. I don’t know how long. I do know that your prayers for me are endlessly blessing and encouraging. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

Feel free to email with questions or comments! J