The Countdown Begins

I spoke at the three churches today to let them know my intentions of going to Uganda.  In order for them to understand the significance of my call, I started at the beginning of course.  I informed people who believed that I was a good Christian girl all of my life that I was an atheist for eight years.  It was the most difficult thing I've ever had to choke out.  At the first church I almost didn't choke it out, actually.  I broke down into tears not even two minutes into my story and was certain that I could not go on.  I wasn't ready to tell everyone my story, even though I knew it had a happy ending.  Hallelujah for prayer.  Hallelujah for a church full of people who love God and support each other.  When I broke down, they immediately lifted me up.  I made it through my story and was filled with the knowledge that I will be supported every step of the journey, not only by God, but by other faithful Christians who love unconditionally.

Again, there's no reason for me to have all of this support.  Some of the folks who came up and hugged me and prayed with me hardly know me at all.  I haven't lived here in nine years; I'm not around for church events; I don't really contribute to anything for them, and yet, they are backing me 100%.  I felt the Spirit.  I felt the Spirit with me all the way.  It's such a curious and overwhelming feeling.  I can't help but cry sometimes.  I look like an idiot to everyone else I'm sure, but I can't control it.  I'm just not used to comfort, peace, and love.

As I was leaving the first church, a visiting pastor pulled me aside, gave me a hug, assured me that this was just the beginning and said, "welcome to the ministry." I can't get the statement out of my head.  It's terrifying, and I'm not entirely sure what it means exactly or how deeply it goes.  Right now, I'm just starting with two months in Uganda.  That's all I can think about right now.

Logistically, I have a TON of things to do to get ready for this trip.  Lots and lots of praying for starters.   Then there's fundraising and managing all of my bills while I'm gone.  Plane tickets. I need a definitive packing list.  I've got my passport, so there's one step checked off.  Prayer first.  Prayer always.

Good night <3