I know it has been a while since I've updated my blog, so I figured I should let you all know what has been happenings since my last entry! Well, surprisingly, there is a lot to do to prepare to go into the mission field and I have been busy trying to learn as much as I can so that when God opens the doors for me to go, I will be ready. In January I started the Perspectives class on World Missions. It is 3 hours per week in class with about 1-3 hours of reading preparation per week for 15 weeks. I'm in my 6th week now and have learned so much about how God has commanded us all to be "missionaries" regardless of where we are. I've also learned that the bible talks about missions even in Genesis! I am learning so much and am so glad that I have the opportunity to go to the class.
I'm also continuing to learn Spanish via Rosetta Stone. This is definitely a longer process than if I were totally immersed in it or taking a class. I can't believe the amount of Spanish I learned in just being in Peru for 2 weeks. Especially the week I was living with the Peruvian family who primarily spoke Spanish! So, my challenge to you is (if you know Spanish) speak to me in Spanish when I see or talk to you so that I am forced to practice! (:
I've spent the last 6 weeks researching various mission agencies and spending time in prayer trying to determine what the best sending agency would be for me. This is an extremely important decision for me since they will not only help prepare me before I go, but will also provide support for me in many other ways when I am down there. I am now beginning the extensive process of filling out the application for the agency, which is just step one of many steps in this application process.
I am also planning and attending continuing education classes related to my career to be classes that would be most helpful for me when I'm in Peru.
And last but not least, I am spending time with the Lord daily, praying, asking for wisdom and provision during this time of waiting. I know that His timing is perfect but it is extremely challenging to finally come to a decision, to know what it is that God is telling me to do, and then have to WAIT for His timing. People have asked me when I am going and right now my answer is "I don't know". I need to sell my condo, pay off college debt, and raise support. Ideally, I would LOVE to be there by summer/fall of 2011. Please continue to pray for God's provision of these things for me to be able to go, and for me to continue to learn and prepare as much as I can before going. Thanks so much for your support and prayers. I will continue to update you on things as they progress!
Blessings and Love to all,
Lisa