I want to tell you all a story. It is the story that many of us can relate to, a story of a journey that does not go at all the way it was thought it would go. It is the story of a treacherous journey with twists and turns and filled with uncertainty, but filled with breathless moments and intimacy with the One who made the journey. Trust is needed. Perseverence is vital for survival and courage will be found in the most unexpected places. This is my story. Mine is filled with plot twists and unexpected detours, but all of it has led me to know my Father deeper. I am inviting you to come along on my journey. It may be a long time before it is finished, but if you are willing, I want to take you along with me. I also have an anouncement! I have chosen to stay in Gainesville for another semester! I am so excited for the incredible journey ahead as I continue my partnership with Adventures in Missions, pouring out to the community here while also being equipped for the journey to come. I am still looking for people who are willing to partner with me in this journey financially. If you are interested in learning more about how you can help or want to learn more about what I am doing, please email me at [email protected] any time! I would love to tell you all about what I am doing and how God is moving here in Gainesville!
Now, let’s get to the story…
We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps. Proverbs 16:9
She packed her bags, preparing for the journey ahead. The road was long, treacherous, and she knew that even the propvisions she had made may not be enough. She wasn’t worried, however. She would not be making the journey alone. Though she could not see him, she had a companion making the journey with her. He would have all the provisions she would need, he had told her.
He had come to her deep in the night as she slept. In her dreams, he would often come and speak to her. Every night, the conversations were different. Some nights, he told her what he thought of her, the incredible love he had for her. Other nights, he came and spoke of the plans he had for her. Sometimes the dreams seemed almost cryptic, the way that he spoke in symbols and rhythmic poetry. She had fallen deeply in love with this man in her dreams and knew with every part of her being she would follow wherever he might lead.
Last night’s dream had been different. When he came, he began to tell her of a road. It was not far from her home. In fact, it began at the edge of the forest just beyond where her property ended. She had ventured beyond the edges of her property before and in her adventures had been injured. The injury had left her with a limp, not only in her leg, but in her heart and she had not dared to try again. But the time had come to try again.
She picked up her pack and walking stick and walked to the door. She took one glimse behind her, at the life she was leaving, and felt the sharp pain of things left behind. As tears filled her eyes, she walked out of the door and with a determined walk, found herself at the trail. She took a deep breath, closed her eyes, and took her first step. As her foot touched the trail, she felt a new sense of purpose well up within her. She was created to take this journey and now she knew it. She would take the hard path, but she was going with him, and nothing else mattered.
