What am I doing?

So, why am I going to Thailand? Good question! Here is the short of it, God told me too!

Here is the long of it: In the Bible, God’s word for mankind, Jesus commands us to Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. (Matthew 28:19) I have read that verse and memorized that verse many times over my last 40 years and knew that was what God wanted us as Christians to do, but I never really felt He was calling me to go personally until now.

In my younger days I have done many things to help missionaries spread the word, through all my Lottie Moon tin can banks and Annie Armstrong milk carton banks, through my work with GAs both in Louisville and here in Thompsons Station. I have always had a “soft spot” in my heart for missionaries and their work, and always enjoyed hearing them speak about their work, whether it was Indonesia or Chicago. I knew deep down that one day He might want me to go, but I always had a bit of fear in me that said I wasn’t worthy enough or I didn’t know enough.

However, two things have happened in the last year to change that. First of all, in early March 2006 we met Harry and Patty Brittian, who were leaving for Thailand to be missionaries. They were young like us (ha!) and had 4 little kids. They came and spoke at our SS class one Sunday and we were all just in awe. How could they be so happy, so willing to go to the other side of the world with their young children, not knowing what lies ahead? We asked about common things: Is there a doctor close? Do you have running water? Will you live in a hut? But through it all, I could see so much Jesus in them! I really made a connection with them and have been in touch with them over the past year and a half of their journey.

Then, in January 2007 we had a Global Missions Banquet where our pastor encouraged all of us to go on some sort of mission trip in the next 18 months. He explained that, as Christians, this is our duty and responsibility to tell others about God and bring them to an understanding of His love for them. I had heard that hundreds of times before, but this time it really struck me. I believe it was God moving in my heart to say, “Melissa, this is the time.” Naturally, the two biggest barriers leapt in front of me: my precious children and the money. But even as I was thinking about that, Pastor Tom reminded us, “If God has called you to go and wants you to go, do you think things like care of children or parents or money are going to stand in your way?” So, I was ready to go wherever the Lord needed me.

As I looked over our church’s trips for the year, I didn’t feel any peace about what I was supposed to do. I prayed constantly, allowing God to show me what He wanted me to do. I found out about a trip through another church and thought it might be the one. However, it didn’t work out and I was really disappointed. I thought, “Ok, God. You want me to go; I’m willing, what now?” Then only a few weeks later I found out about a mission trip to Thailand. As soon as I heard even the sketchiest details, I knew this was what I was supposed to do. Imagine, going on a mission trip to minister to missionary wives and other American women, and being needed to do a scrapbook breakout session, which the women so are desperately desiring! Is God so cool or what?!?

My sweet husband keeps asking me why my first missions trip has to be around the world for two weeks and not, say, in Appalachia for a long weekend, but all I know is, God told me to go. I have concerns about the trip, but I just rest in His comfort, knowing He will provide.