I failed to mention some things that I feel God is up to in my life. You see, one of the biggest impressions I have had since coming here has been that I must continue these relationships after I leave. Back in December, I got a picture and an idea of what a cross-cultural internship program might look like here in Poland. Over time, that image has morphed and I have presented the idea to a few people.
You might remember me mentioning Dan Russell who came from the Portland, OR area to visit with us, right near the end of Alexis' stay, after a US Wrestling tournament here in Poland. One day we (Dan, Alexis, and I) were driving towards Carol and Denise's and he started telling me about the internship program he and his wife facilitate at his church (Easthill Foursquare in Gresham, OR). He also mentioned how he wanted to setup some kind of cross-cultural program, my eyes lit up (as did Alexis') and at that point, I knew God was up to something.
I know that the hour-long time with God at the conference on that Sunday morning was God telling me it is time to go. But it was not in the sense of leaving here, but it's time for me to go and do what needs to be done to make this idea happen. I realize it is a multi-year vision, it will require a lot of patience, training, support, and most of all prayer and guidance from God. However, unlike anything else, when I think about this I feel the passion come back, I feel alive again, and this must be God's will for me. I know that anything I do which honors and glorifies the Father is in his will, and this is just one of many ways I could go. It is a desire God has placed on my heart and it not only will glorify him, it will build the relationships I have made this year for many years to come.
And there is more! Last night Alexis met with our new Young Adult's pastor (who is also the pastoral care pastor) at Mill Creek (our church in the Seattle area) and he asked her to be an intern. I don't know the details since it is all she could leave in the quick voice message she left me. But I believe this is all related and God is certainly up to something.
Don't let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you teach, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity. [1 Tim 4:12]
