A Gringa Headed for Home

I don’t know how I should even start this. How do I wrap up more than a year of my life in just a few paragraphs? This time has been the most challenging, exciting, and growth-encouraging year of my life. I give thanks to God for the people He has put in my life and for all the experiences that I will remember for the rest of it. I know that He has used this year to really shape my character, thoughts, views, and dependence on Him. I learned what it means to be stretched beyond what you think you are capable of both mentally, emotionally, and physically. I was given responsibility that at times seemed unbearable and impossible to accomplish. But God is faithful, showing me that what may seem inconceivable based on my own opinion will never change the reality of His sovereign will. (1 Cor 1:27-28) His purpose will be carried out whether I think I am capable or not.

I have also found out the great importance of the heart. Solomon’s words couldn’t be more true when he says in Proverbs 4 that the heart is the wellspring of life. Out of our hearts come our thoughts, words, and actions- it is essentially who we are, our being. Lots of times it is a great battle for me because my heart has been “deceitful” and “desperately wicked” since the day I was born (Jer. 17:9) and that will follow me the rest of my days. Jealousy, along with the need to be the best and making sure everyone knows it, is a battle with the other part of me that wants to do what I know is right, doing things for the total glory of the Lord and not for myself. Another thing I have learned along this same line is the importance of giving my best because that’s what the Lord would want from me. He deserves all that I’ve got, each and every day of my life. A struggle for me is the need to be and do everything perfect. A great lesson for me this year was that God doesn’t ask for perfection from us, that standard is too high and it is impossible. But, what God does ask is that we give Him our best, using our abilities not to impress or wow others, but to do things out of a sincere heart, giving all for Him.

Here at Word of Life, it’s very easy to get caught up in a routine and schedule. It’s easy to get lost in it all, as day in and day out things are always the same. At the same time, there’s always something new to be involved with whether it be ministry needs or slots to be filled. At times it’s hard for me to get involved as it’s another thing on the schedule, while at other times it’s hard for me to say no to the constant opportunities that come my way. I’ve learned the importance of being balanced this year, finding time not only for ministry, but for my time with the Lord as well. Life can make it hard when trying to find the median between being the super “I can do it all” ministry person in comparison to the one that “sits at Jesus’” feet to learn and put into action these truths.

Life here has been very interesting, challenging, and well worth it, but it’s time for me to move on to the new things God has planned for the future. I have had some great years of solid preparation, and now it’s time to start life and use them. When I get back home, I would love to start using this new language. I’m hoping that there are some great jobs available that allow me to keep it fresh. Also, when I get back, I’m going to start taking classes at a seminary for Biblical Counseling. I’m excited to take this new step, and my mom is excited that I’ll be spending more time at home as many of the classes can be taken online! So, as this chapter of my life closes and a new one begins, I will look back and remember the growth that this amazing year has brought. Thank you all for keeping me in your thoughts and prayers, I greatly appreciate it.

Bendiciones, Alyssa