The Start Of The Journey

The first sunset I saw in Zimbabwe (2007)

In 2007 I was asked to join a short-term mission team to Zimbabwe Africa. I said yes. Little did I know at that time my decision to join the trip would affect my life in a very powerful way. The team consisted of nine students from Johnson Bible College (now Johnson University). God had already begun to mold my heart with a passion for missions, however, nothing could have prepared me for how He would work in my life that summer. 

For the two weeks before the teams departure I dreamt of a beautiful sunset very night. The sun was radiant as it sunk to the horizon behind the clouds. The glorious scene was reflected in the river making the colors all the more brilliant. Upon our arrival in the small village of Doma where we would be working I took a short walk down the lane toward the river. My breath caught in my throat as I gazed upon the very sunset I had been dreaming of for the previous two weeks.  I sat on the ground in awe of our creator and soaked in the beauty and sensation of wonder. 

My experience with the sunset that first evening in Doma attuned my ears and heart to hear the voice of Jesus for those four weeks. My heart waited, eager to find myself in His presence. One day I took a walk down the lane next to the bean fields. The sun shown bright and I walked at a quick pace thinking about the passage in 1 Peter that admonishes us to, "be clear-minded and self-controlled so that you can pray." As I repeated the words over and over in my mind I heard a voice as clear as day say, "slow down." I stopped in my tracks, but just shook my head and started walking again. I heard the voice once again as clear as day. This time I slowed my pace. I know many people hold differing views on how God communicates with us, but I also know that my God controls the entire universe and knows how to speak to my heart effectively. The breeze swept across the fields and I walked slowly enraptured by the feeling of love that had overcome me. Soon we passed some Shona women working in a field and He asked me, "Will you love my people?" I said yes. Little did I know that choice would lead me back to Doma, Zimbabwe four years later.

This story marks the start of my lifeblood journey, the journey to completely and wholly empty my heart of its selfishness and pride and to begin transfusing Christ blood, His heart, mind, and will into every aspect of who I am. I look forward to sharing this journey with you as I begin my ministry in Zimbabwe.