It has been brought to my attention (by a variety of people) that a blog update is long overdue. Sorry! I have to admit, although I’m sure it’s obvious, that I am absolutely horrible at communicating and keeping in touch! …I’ll try harder. I can’t believe 3 weeks in Brazil have already come and gone! I am still having a blast, at the same host family, and making connections with people at the church.
It’s really difficult for me to sit down and write my thoughts, as I have a million that I’m still trying to process. One thing I am understanding a little bit more this week is that God has a purpose and timing for everything. The more time I spend here, the more I am convinced that He has orchestrated every encounter and event long before Brazil was even a thought in my mind. God has been speaking truth, grace and humility into my life each and every day. He has proven to me that He is in control time and time again, and that He will not leave my side.
About a week ago I received my schedule for my time here in Brazil. When I first looked at my itinerary, I couldn’t help but be a little disappointed that I’m not working more with the community outside of the church and doing more outreach activities. When we think of mission trips, we automatically think the purpose is to go to a foreign country, evangelize to strangers and bring people to Christ. This aspect of ministry is essential for the Kingdom of God, and I truly believe God calls us to reach out to others who may not know Him. However, I think there is another aspect of ministry that is oftentimes overlooked, but equally important. Not only does God call us to evangelize to others, but He also calls us to help strengthen and encourage those who are already part of the body of Christ.
In the New Testament, Paul speaks to multitudes of gentiles and Jews. He dedicates his life to the ministry of Christ Jesus, and spreads the gospel to the corners of the earth. However, in his ministry he also spends a great deal of time writing letters to the various churches and visiting his fellow believers. This aspect of tending to God’s flock is absolutely crucial!
I believe I am here to help strengthen and encourage the Free Methodist Church of Marilia. I believe I am here to help them make connections with their community, but more importantly to help them know the love of God a little bit deeper and wider. It is my hope that I get an opportunity to reach out to the community during my time here in Brazil, and I will be seeking out those opportunities in the future. But as for now, I’m absolutely delighted to be serving the people of this church.
