As I sit in the Atlanta airport getting ready to board a flight to Battambang, Cambodia, I can’t help but to reflect on the past few days leading up to this moment.
I am so excited to see all that the Lord has in store for this next season of my life, but that doesn’t mean the ache of letting go of the comforts I am so used to isn’t there. The hardest thing I have ever had to do is say “goodbye” to my parents. I was blessed to have my parents come to Parent Launch and get to experience the teachings and worship that are the so involved in the AIM community. When Monday afternoon came, I realized that the moment I had been dreading for a while had finally arrived.
I have lived at home my entire life. My family has always been close, but during the past year I feel as if we have really brought our relationship to a new level – and I thank God for this blessing that a lot of people do not have. Even on long trips, my parents have always been one call away. But when I hugged my parents for the last time (for 9 months) I realized that my mom will not always be there for me to tell about my day. My dad will no longer be there to watch movies with after a long day at work. My sister won’t be one room away to make me laugh when I need it the most. All of these qualities – and so much more – are no longer a part of this season.
They are comforts that I have always had that the Lord was asking me to give up.
As I turned away from my parents and walked up the stairs, I had a vison of Jesus standing at the top with His arms wide open. Comforting me in my sorrow. Holding me in my hurt. Because He knows exactly how it feels.
“Then He said to them: ‘whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me’” Luke 9:23
Following Christ will not be easy, but it will be worth it. One of the speakers I heard this past week defined it as: give up everything, to receive everything.
I now fully embrace all that God asks of me, and all that He has for me.
Over the next few days I might not have a good internet connection, so I would like to update everyone by announcing that I AM FULLY FUNDED!!! Thank you to everyone who has donated to me, as well has lifted me up in prayer. I am so blessed, and so fill with gratitude. The Lord has abundantly blessed me.
