Several times during the process of application, waiting for approval, official placement, and getting ready, we have revisited that conversation. When you are willing and don't place limits on God ... you might find yourself on a scenic journey that you weren't expecting.
Haiti touched us in a way like no other place we have been. Dominican Republic kept popping up. Then we were asked a question by a visiting missionary associate, "Have you thought about coming to the Dominican Republic?" John was interested, my response was "I won't close the door to a place where God might want me." Then the phone call came. I was still processing that conversation and praying about what had been discussed. Another phone call came. I stopped. We were in the middle of shopping for a place to live. Our appointment could wait.
Was I convinced? Not yet. But He had my attention. So being true to my Missouri roots I said, "Show me. Show John. " He's been doing just that. We didn't ask Him to show the full path, we just stepped out.
We know we have much to learn along the way, language being one of the greatest challenges. To be given an opportunity to work with Haitian children and work with Haitian churches! - it is true that He knows our heart's desires and it does matter to Him. We have missed the Latin America culture and have such fond memories of time spent in Venezuela. To have this blended into an opportunity - we just look at each other often and say "is this really happening?"
We step out. There will be days where we may feel overwhelmed with the challenges of culture adaptation and the struggle to learn two languages at a level where we can somewhat converse with the nationals. There will be days where there are more challenges than comforts. Those are the days we know people will be praying - that will turn the tide. We will hold to that knowledge.
When we look at this on paper - it can be daunting. As we look at it in faith knowing what He can do - an unexplainable peace is found.
What do I expect? I expect amazing connections and divine appointments. I expect smiles and laughter. I expect many times of falling at His feet and asking, seeking, knocking and standing on His promises that He will equip and give strength to those He chooses.
Watching Him at work - unfolding it as only He can, seeing Him move mountains. We know there will be many more times of watching and waiting.
