Creative Outlets–Part 2 The Joy of Mission
Jayden....one of my many friends
I wanted to continue my post from a couple of days ago….
So on top of discovering how God wants to use my talents and passions for His glory, I recently went on a mission trip where I got to use music to build relationships with some awesome kids. This mission trip wasn’t around the world in a quiet village in Thailand, it wasn’t even across the county. This trip was about forty-five minutes from my house: 15th Street Baptist Church in East St. Louis.
“This past week I learned so much. I came into the week uncertain of what would occur & even had doubts of why I was there to being completely blessed & realizing that I haven’t given God my all.” – Excerpt from my journal
So I led music and although the week started out rough with not a huge plan of what would take place it ended with me making friends with several of the church members at the church and building relationships with children such as Jayden and Dante. Simple songs became songs that the kids referenced as “my song,” rowdy kids became kids that ran up and gave me hugs and the intimidating East side became a place where I saw God working mightily.
Throughout this week I was able to have a great week at work as well. My coworker pretty much called me a saint and said I was going to heaven because of the work I was doing during that week. I was able to share with her the reason I was going to go to heaven–I had a personal relationship and that didn’t have anything to do with the “good” things I did. This was completely a God moment because I have no idea what came out of my mouth; the only thing I know is God used me and I’m excited to be used by Him more as I interact with her on a day-to-day basis.
Another great thing is that Brookshire has started up again! Brookshire is a mobile home satellite church that FBCA started. Each Sunday I have the opportunity to go on a mission trip and reach out with the kids during the kids club. Already I have seen old faces and some new ones too. I’m super excited what God has in store through the summer and beyond! I will continue to update on what God is doing as I interact with the people.
Lastly, God has been speaking though men God has placed in my life in the capacity of teachers. Last Tuesday Brad spoke about the blind beggar being healed by Jesus. I was hit hard by the questions: Apart from Christ, is there something or someone I’m dependent on? Do I come expectant for Christ to come in our presence? Is Jesus my primary passion? What are my obstacles or distractions?
Today, Pastor Kenny started a new sermon series on the Beatitudes: “Non-Blended Believers.” I was again pressed by the reality that as a Christ follower I’m not supposed to be blended into the world but rather be distinctive from the world. I liked the definition of a Sore Thumb- To be easily noticed. To be clearly & obviously different from all things around it. We’re supposed to be sore thumbs in the world.
“It’s our full time job not to blend in with the world……Normal is overrated.” – Craig Groeschel
God has been completely teaching me new things day after day….I’m excited what God has in store next.
