The Adventure Begins

Oh where to start?

At this moment I am sitting in my office at WOL South Africa! I can't praise God enough for the adventures He has put in my life to bring me to the place I am at now! I was reading through my journal last night and the beginning starts with my second summer in Korea and goes through WOL Hungary, my summer in FL and I have now started to journal about this new chapter of my life. I couldn't help but smile, and sometimes laugh out loud, at some of the experiences I have had, the people I have met, foods I have eaten, and times I have gotten lost! But even more interesting is my spiritual journey over these 3 years. I couldn't even recognize myself a points in my journal (which is a good thing) and I can NOT thank the Savior enough for growing me and shaping me more into the image of His Son! I am no where close to where I desire to be and I know I have much more to learn and more areas to grow in! But praise our God because He is faithful and will continue this work in me until the day I stand before Him! (Phil. 1:6)

A year ago today, I had no idea where I would be now. I knew very little about WOLSA and I had only inquired briefly about the ministry. It's hard to put into words how overwhelmed I am (in a good way) by the provision and faithfulness of God.

I am living in the Page's home (director's of WOLSA) with 5 girls who are attending a bible program through WOLSA. I will be leading devo's and will be in some ways responsible for the room. I am not sure right now what a day will look like and a schedule won't probably be consistent until sometime next week when schools start back up! Right now I am just along for the ride, meeting other staff members and getting familiar with the culture. Handshakes aren't an appropriate greeting here in South Africa. A hug is the usual greeting, but often times (the more someone has a relationship with you) a kiss of the cheek is common. I was also warned that as the older women become more comfortable around me and accept me they will most likely kiss smack on the lips..can't say I look forward to that :)

I am so thankful to be here and be part of a growing ministry focused on the gospel of Christ. I know this year will be one that I grow closer to my savior and I will get to know Him so much more through this experience.
One of my favorite verses right now is Philippians 3:10-12

I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.

Please pray for me as I am still adjusting and meeting people! Thank you for your prayers and support!