Well guys, it's finally here. I'm 12 hours from flying away from American soil for two years. Anxious? Absolutely. Scared? Not at all. I've been at the edge of so many things for so long and it's finally time to step off for something better.
Before Mags and I left NM, I had the chance to say some goodbyes and hug some necks I haven't seen in way too long. I was overwhelmed with the outpouring of love and support from friends, family and neighbors I've known all my life and some acquaintances I met just once. There's no replacement for my small hometown and I can't imagine being able to do what I do without so many people in my corner. As an aside, thank you to those who have prayed for, written to, called, texted, and thought about me. I am so confident in God's work, provision, and intention for me and I can't wait to see the good that comes from it. There aren't enough words to show my thanks, but I hope each of you know how much you are loved and cherished, and I pray you be bold enough to go where God may call you.
So now, back to finally jumping off that ledge. For the past year, I've been on the edge of being a fleet Marine. I've been on the edge of going where God would have me. I've been on the edge of leaving a comfortable life. My toes are hanging off the ledge, there's a breeze at my back daring me to jump. There's no way to know what's beyond the ledge and that is most exciting, because I can look upon this year and know that obedience brings more joy and fulfillment than I can possible try to force for myself.
Throughout the year I have been tempted, I've given in to temptation, things have broken my heart, events have been exceptionally joyful, I've been surrounded by familiar faces, and I've been lost in a sea of people I don't know. Through all those things, both good and bad, I have found infinite comfort in the grace and love of Christ. Every single time I fail and try to duck my head in shame, I am reminded that this great grace, this unconditional love, gives me no reason to hang my head and every reason to step out beyond myself. More often than I'd like to admit, I've questioned where God has me, but over and over He has shown me a life impacted for the better and a joy that is absolutely unshakable. He has directed my sight outward, relieving me of the weight I try to take on when I focus on myself.
This next step is so incredibly exciting because I go into it expecting God to do good things through me, even in my weakness. There are so many people waiting to be blessed by a love bigger than we can comprehend and my hope is that we will be bold enough to pursue that love and those relationships, whether they're on the other side of the planet or in our own hometowns. Whatever ledge it is you're scared to jump off of, will you just step out already? Y'all, the blessings waiting for you are so good, it kills me to thing you might miss them. Go boldly, go in peace, and I'll see you back stateside real soon!
