Sitting back, remembering the times we have had this past month. There’s been laughter and there has been tears. Looking back now, I realize God was with us every step of the way. He was there when I felt like there was absolutely no hope, when the weight of everything was just hanging over me, he was even there when I had all the joy in the world. He has never left and he never will. Jamaica has been the most wonderful yet toughest experience.Coming on this trip my expectations were so high causing me to fall farther. I expected so many things that did not happen. I felt that there was a lack of ministry happening and that ate me alive. All I wanted to do was go and serve and the time to do that was limited. I wasn’t recognizing the fact that ministry was all around me. It was with the people I lived with, it was basically anywhere I saw someone. The moment I realized that, everything changed.
Perspective is a very important thing. The way you look at things is everything. If you look at something and only find the negative you will never be happy. On this trip I challenged myself to find at least one positive thing in every situation. I did not always succeed but I tried my hardest to.
Going into the week of V.B.S I had a very negative mindset. I felt like I was not meant to be on this trip. As if I had no purpose here, like I was not going to make a difference. Because of that, I did not enjoy the first few days of V.B.S like I should’ve. Once I changed my perspective everything changed. I was able to serve the Lord the way he called me too.
Although I still may question God’s reasoning for sending me on this trip, I know that I was here for a purpose. I may find out in 2 days, or maybe 2 months or possibly even 20 years from now why God sent me here. As of right now I know that there is a reason why and I will find out that reason when the timing is right. God has had me wrapped up in his arms this whole trip. The lord may seem distant but he is there. I have met so many amazing, different, and special people on this trip. My heart breaks for the broken and my soul hurts for the sick, but I know that God is with the people I have come to know. The hard times on this trip taught me to have faith and trust in God, and the good times taught me to appreciate God and what he has given us. God has worked through me in so many ways and I have learned so much about God and about myself.
A piece of my heart is forever in Jamaica, and the people I have met will forever be in my heart.
I have made so many friends here in jamaica, a part of me wishes to never leave. I am so sad to leave those I have met. I will forever thank God for giving me this opportunity and for all he has done for me.
Isaiah 41:10 – Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God, I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
