The Call

This week Jill Marshall, our Outreach Director, will be sharing how she got to Africa. Here’s part 1 of her story.

Missionaries are called into the mission field in unique ways – I’ve haven’t heard the same story twice.  For some it’s a dramatic event, but for most it’s just a journey of steps fueled by a desire to obey God and a heart to help others.  So here’s a little about my journey and my heart:

I was raised in a Christian home.  I’ve believed the Gospel and was assured of my salvation as long as I can remember.  But somewhere along the way I missed the part about having a personal relationship with Christ and living for Him on a daily basis.  My faith guaranteed that I would go to heaven when I died, but it didn’t really impact how I was to live, if that makes sense. It was during my adult years, when circumstances in life through me for a loop, that I started looking for answers, meaning, and purpose in life.  After several unsuccessful attempts, I ended up back at church.  Hmmm, what would things have been like had I pursued God with the same energy and determination that it took to search everywhere else?  I guess that’s a whole other story…

When I plugged back into a church the Lord opened my eyes and softened my heart. Then in 2002, I stepped out on my first mission trip.  I’ll admit – I was scared.  I didn’t feel “Christian enough”. I didn’t think God could use me to help others.  And my persistent prayer was that I wouldn’t be called on to pray out loud.  Can anyone relate?  Fortunately, my excitement outweighed my fears and I went to Ecuador.

…continued tomorrow.

4 Responses - Add yours below

1. Ann Zuerner says:

   My faith guaranteed that I would go to heaven when I died, but it didn’t really impact how I was to live…….
   OMG those words have so much power in them- thank you for sharing. I look forward to getting to know you more through your blogs.
   Have a blessed day.

   [Reply]

   Jill replied:
   

   Thanks so much! I’m grateful the Lord got my attention the way He did. Thanks for the encouragement!

   [Reply]

2. Lot Khobana says:

   I believe that God has called me to make a difference in other person’s life and show them the love of Jesus while on earth God bles South Africa

   [Reply]

   Jill replied:
   

   Thanks Lot! Missions is a great way to do just that – to step out, make a difference and discern where the Lord is calling you next. God bless.

   [Reply]

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