I am reading a book by Emily P Freeman, she has written a
most beautiful book filled with words that encourage us to take a deep look into
our purpose, to find the art we were made to live…we are God’s handiwork after
all, His masterpiece. I love that…I am
an artist, well, I have an artist’s mind, and I understand the idea of our
purpose being an art work to be displayed, whether it is raising children,
photography, creating with paint and brush or fitting words on a page. More than that, in displaying His hand in all
we do, all of us, God comes out in a
million little ways.
Months ago, I began looking into a mission’s trip I could be
part of, to have a bigger purpose, something to be intentional about. I had just read an article from Allan Foster,
a missionary in Panama, the article was mentioning how they needed
encouragement and wondered how a team could come to help them. My first thought of service was for them, but
what could I do alone. Other ideas came
and went, words from friends; doing this, going there or helping here, me
thinking, months of searching out something intentional.
Then I heard that our church was sending a team to Panama,
to the Fosters, the missionary family who months before had needed
encouragement. My first thought was,
wow, I love that, they can search out what is needed and then I will join in on
the next trip out. But God had something
else in mind, at the next church meeting, the question was asked if anyone else
would like to join in…yes, me.
Now it looked like I may be able to go along…but the team
was set, their tickets already bought…and now it seemed like I may not be able
to go. Prayer and waiting and I thought
perhaps the question should not have been asked and I wondered. But God works in mysterious ways and I soon
realized that of course the question was meant to be asked because I was meant
to be part of the team…perfect.
So, in just a few more sleeps, six of us will be heading out
to Panama, loaded with eleven suitcases and boxes filled with tools, boat
fittings, pump motors, computers, sound equipment, books, clothes, food, toys…more
than that…words of encouragement, eyes open to learn, ears to listen and hearts
to love.
Our art, displaying God in a million little ways…
I love that.
