We were asked to write a blog about how we were called to this mission trip.  Here is my story...

 

The journey to this trip began in March 2008, when I began praying about what God wanted me to do following college graduation (to occur in August 2009).  I read Red Letters by Tom Davis of Children's Hope Chest after someone recommended it to me and was very moved to become involved in the worldwide orphan crisis.  It was really on my heart to pray specifically about how God wanted to use me to reach orphans.  I have had a strong compassion for orphans for a long time now, but I have always assumed that meant I would adopt children one day.  However, it gradually became revealed that I was going to do something a little more...

 

My college ministry took a trip to Tijuana, Mexico in March 2009.  I was privileged to be a part of the team that ministered to orphans, repaired homes, handed out food, and most importantly, shared with people about the hope that comes through Jesus.  It was a life-changing trip for me.  It confirmed my calling to "...look after orphans and widows in their distress..." (James 1:27).  After returning to the U.S., I felt that it was time for me to start looking into specific opportunities to go oversees for orphan care.

 

 

 

Some great friends of mine referred me to AIM in late July after a trip they took to Swaziland (this picture is from their trip!).  I applied, interviewed, and was accepted within two weeks of hearing of AIM.  I felt an unmistakable peace about the decision to accept the spot on the trip.  I continue to be very excited about January!