God is Great

Ever since I realized that I had a say in what I got to be when I grew up, I’ve been afraid of greatness. Motivational speakers would come and talk about being world changers who made an “exponential impact”. People around me would cheer and talk about the big things they wanted to do; meanwhile I was completely terrified. I’ve always loved the idea of leading a quiet life and changing the world in small ways by the way I live on a daily basis. While one of my deepest desires is to have a purpose in life, I also feel overwhelmed by the thought that everything I do matters intensely. I've often been intimidated by the idea that I was created for greatness.

It wasn’t until this past weekend that I realized that I was looking at greatness from such a skewed perspective. Greatness isn’t about me or what I do, and it’s also not something I have to live up to. Greatness is about God. It’s about deciding to live in constant surrender, choosing to participate in the plan God’s created and recognizing that living life in pursuit of his presence is greatness—not anything I can plan or do. Is that scary and humbling? Yes, but it’s also beautiful, surprising, and unpredictable. Right now, I’m participating in greatness by working at the key control office at Taylor University. In three months, I will get to participate in greatness by working with kids and families with Back2Back in Mexico. Both are equally as worthy, equally as great, and have their own joys and trials.

I got to experience my first taste of God’s presence in Mexico this past weekend when I had the opportunity to visit the Back2Back site in Quintana Roo. I was able to meet many of the ministry partners I’ll be working with, spend time with some of the children and families we serve, and spend time with the site directors Erick and Julie Mowery. It was an incredible trip that helped to affirm that this is where I have been called to serve for at least the next little while.

I was amazed at the level of need and the unique, grace-filled ways that God is working through Back2Back to help meet those needs and pursue his sons and daughters living in Mexico. The site in Quintana Roo focuses specifically on preventing struggles experienced by orphans by working with families and children who are at risk of becoming orphans. More specifically, God is using Back2Back to help widows provide for their families and to reach out to children who are involved in local community centers. They are also involved in serving children who are already living in children’s homes.

The people I met in Mexico were absolutely beautiful, and I feel so blessed to serve them starting in January. Please pray for wisdom for both me and the Mowerys on where I can best use my abilities and experiences to serve with Back2Back. Please also pray for current and incoming Back2Back staff at the site in Quintana Roo, for God’s direction when making decisions on how to best work with children and families, and for the development of a new community center in a region called “Tres Reyes”.

Thanks so much for all of your support and prayers so far! I pray that partnering with me in this ministry will help you to grow, learn, and be encouraged, as well.  Love you guys!