Hi everyone! I mentioned in my last post that there were plans underway that would help me take a new step forward toward mission work in the Czech Republic. Well, little did I know that it would actually be two new steps. 🙂 After a lot of work, prayer, and several good conversations, it’s finally time to announce what those plans are.

First Step: I’m taking a short-term scouting trip to the Czech Republic for a few weeks at the beginning of September!

Which means my trip is coming up soon. Very very soon. On the one hand I see all the plans that still need to be made, the money I need to raise, the things I need to pack. But on the other hand… I’m going back! Back to the Czech Republic. Back to all of the friends and places that meant so much to me. Back to the life and culture I’ve missed since I’ve been home. It’s exciting. A brand new adventure.

We’re calling this short-term trip a “scouting” trip because it serves a special purpose. This isn’t just a short-term mission trip where I travel, do some good, and then come home. This scouting trip is about preparing for the future. It’s a step toward something bigger. On this scouting trip I’ll be praying and “prayer walking” in and around ValMez, seeking God’s will and blessing for the city, the ministries going on there, the believers, and for my future. I’ll also be reconnecting with friends and with Youth for Christ – Czech, and learning new lessons about the language and culture that will help me when I move back.

Yes, I said it. I’m planning on moving to ValMez. 🙂

Which brings me to the next exciting step.

Second Step: I get to start raising monthly mission support so that I can move back to the Czech Republic as a full-time missionary!!!

This is a HUGE step for me. I feel like I’m standing at the foot of a mountain, gazing up at the summit and wondering, “Will I ever get there?” There are so many hopes and dreams rolled into this, dreams of a new life, a new focus, a new ministry. And with the dreams come doubts and fears as I wonder whether I’ll ever succeed.

But that’s all part of the journey. Part of the adventure. And deep down in my heart I have faith that the God who called me to mission work will see me through to the end.

So what comes next? Well, I’ll be mailing out mission letters soon, and prayer cards. The letter will give a more detailed summary of my short-term and long-term goals, the amount of money I’m hoping to raise, and information for anyone interested in partnering with me, either monetarily or in prayer. I’ll be sending these out to family, close friends, and supporters from my previous mission trip. If you’ve been following my journey and would like to receive a letter, but aren’t sure whether you’re on my list or if I have your contact info, would you please let me know? I’d love to connect with you further.

A big THANK YOU to all of you who have joined me on this journey over the past months. Your prayers and support and encouragement have helped make these next steps a reality. Please continue to pray for me as I move forward. Everyone, it’s time for a new adventure.