For the LOVE of God COMPELS us
{ 2 corinthians 5:14 }
It is amazing the things God’s love will compel you to do. It breaks through walls that seemed steadfast, it passes through cultures as if it was routine, it causes us to run the marathon when we signed up for a 5K.
God’s love has compelled me far beyond what I thought I was entering, and the joy that has come through the obedience has been overwhelming.
It is weird to think I have 2 months left in Ghana. No more rides in buses that should hold 6 people that are holding 15, or long walks to places that would take 5 minutes in car, no more “Obrunie” (white person) being yelled out from every car and walkway. The things that used to grab me so much in the beginning are some of the things I will miss the most. Even as I write that I laugh at the irony. These things caused me to be uncomfortable. They caused me to realized it is not my comfort that Father is interested in, rather my growth and character.
“But if anyone loves God, he is know by God” 1 Cor. 8:3
I have come to realize that it is not about how much I do, but rather how much I love. The year of 2012 started off with 2 months confined in a bedroom. I learned more in those two months then I did in the first 5 months I spent here. I was called here to show God’s love through service, prayer, hugs, listening, and so much more. I have learned that I can not earn any gift my Lord gives freely, and how beautiful those gifts are.
{ many of you have asked }
WHAT’S NEXT?
I know the Lord is calling me back home. Just as He has called me to disciple and teach those out here. He has called me home to do the same. The thought of going home is both challenging and encouraging at the same time. There is something so comfortable about your home, yet I know I am not going to be comfortable but challenged. When questions of where I will work & sleep are looming... I will continue to keep the same posture that I have learned and developed.
Here I am, use me....in any way, through any thing, use me ABBA
Please continue to pray for the conferences that are to come. On May 12th I am running a youth conference that should have about 120-200 kids in attendance. We are talking to them about being a light in their school and community through Eph. 5:8. In a predominately Christian community it is not hard to recite verses and preach, but to reach out to the outcast and be a light in dark places is almost unheard of. I also know that I was brought here. To bring light, and I will not stop until my purpose has been accomplished.
Thank you for your compelling love that has made this year possible, and for your constant prayers. Through your faithful prayers and those around me I have been able to experience some miracle days with my arthritis. I am trusting and knowing the Lord WILL restore my body to full health before I leave here. Through it all the Lord continues to remind me that He will never leave me or forsake me. There is nothing quite as beautiful as the promise that my Lord’s presence will never flee from me.
May you be compelled to go far beyond what is comfortable,
Jessica
