Change in Plans

I've more recently understood the words of James 4:15, "Instead you ought to say, 'If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.'" Plans are good to put in place, but it's still about following God where He has for you. This summer, I planned to go to Monterrey, Mexico to join with the TIME Ministries missionaries as the summer groups come in. However, due to a more recent up-rise in violence associated with the drug war, summer groups there have been cancelled and redirected to our other sites in Dallas and the Dominican Republic. The missionaries themselves there still feel safe, as the violence is only directed toward those involved in the drug war. However, after much thought and prayer, the decision was made not to bring the church groups into the area because of this shift in the area.

What does this mean for me and my "plans" then? Well, now I will be going to Dallas, Texas for the groups that will be there this summer, as well as to the Dominican Republic for three weeks in July for two or three groups that will be there. I will still be able to visit Monterrey for a short time in between groups one time this summer. Although this is much different than my original plans, I can see that this change in plans also brings about good opportunity. Through this, I will be able to see not only one, but two other TIME Ministries sites under operation. So, though this is different, I am looking forward to what God has in store for us through this summer. I truly do believe that "in all things God works for the good of those who love him (Rom.8:28)," and so I know that these plans are better than my own.

As far as long-term, my "plans" are still to move down to Monterrey as a full-time missionary with TIME Ministries when my support is ready. I am still trusting that this is the Lord's will for me, and so I will go "live and do this or that" in Monterrey when I am able and ready.