Earlier this summer, I asked God how to use my time between applying to law schools this fall and beginning school next year. I knew that the only way I would receive an answer from the Father was to stay deep in His Word and follow his guidance through scripture, so I made it a habit to read and meditate on the Word every morning.
For a while, I’ve wanted to serve others internationally to become a more global citizen and grow in compassion toward other cultures and people. I found an opportunity to do this earlier this summer, but the Holy Spirit let me know that it wasn’t what God had planned for me; it didn’t have Christ at the center. So, I stayed in the Word and asked God to reveal to me how I could be a servant to him in everything I do while keeping Christ at the center.
“So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31 NLT)
While he was leading me to the answer, I was simultaneously crafting a mission statement for my nonprofit. I knew I had to make the mission Christ-centered (as I said earlier, I wanted to commit everything I do to Christ and bring glory to God in all that I do: “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10 NIV).
So, while I was trying to figure out a mission for my nonprofit, I returned to the Bible, listening for God’s direction on what he truly wants his servants to do while on earth.
These two events converged and led me to Matthew 28:19-20.
“Go therefore 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 that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20)
There was no better scripture that I could find that not only gave me a mission for my nonprofit, but a purpose for my life, even beyond the gap of time I had between applications and starting school. This scripture was also powerful because of the closing that Jesus gives his disciples: “And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
This was what I was called on earth to do. I had always asked God to give me the opportunity to lead the best possible life, and God told me: But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (Matthew 6:33 KJV).
I kept my eyes on God, followed Jesus, and everything fell into place. I did research on how to actualize Matthew 28:19-20. God led me to explore missionary programs. I looked at a few different programs online and sent my information to the World Race.
I spoke with Johnny, who went on a previous trip, was warm and welcoming, and shared a strong love for Jesus. He encouraged me to seek God in prayer and confirm that this opportunity was right for me. I did, and after a few conversations, I committed to joining the World Race.
I will be spending four months in Eswatini and South Africa, sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior, and serving others in love.
There is no better way that I could spend my time between my applications and beginning school next fall than to immerse myself in, what I would learn later was called, “The Great Commission”. Every day, I continue to follow Jesus and keep my eyes on God so that I may walk confidently into my purpose.
God led me to the World Race, and I can’t wait to start in January 2024.
