(Written by: Anna Sandy)
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (New American Standard Bible)
I am filled with excitement! I love meeting new people! I really love meeting new people! What could be better than meeting new people in a new country and sharing the everlasting joy that Jesus brings? It’s like a dream come true! I am counting the days; there are less than two weeks to go!
Looking back to this past summer, I thought that the day I would be able to venture off to Czechia, would be years away. Helping lead the summer camp requires that you have graduated from high school, and I am only in ninth grade. It seemed like it would be forever before I would get my turn to serve. Although I was willing to be patient, I am overjoyed I didn’t have to wait! Less than six months after the first team returned, I find myself preparing to go to Czechia.
The fact is, underneath the excitement I feel unprepared. I want to share the grace of God in a whole different culture. Everything is new. Everything is different. I don’t quite know what to expect, or how I will manage. I am both nervous and excited at the same time.
What God is teaching me through this is that I need to trust Him and lean on Him more to overcome cultural differences. If the food isn’t my favorite, He can help me accept it with thanks. If I can’t communicate well with someone, He can give me patience to express His grace through my actions. I know I am going to be stretched but maybe God knows I need a little stretching.
My dad keeps asking me: “What most excites you about this trip?” The simple answer that comes to mind is: “Meeting new people.” That’s a big deal for me. But the more complete answer is that I am excited to see how God stretches me, sustains me and helps me overcome my anxiety as I reach out to new friends in a new culture.
Prayer Requests
- Health for the Sandy Family as we prepare for this trip.
- Wisdom as we work with the Czech team to plan the remaining details.
- Students with open hearts to attend the camp and English club.