This idea has changed through classes and personal reflection - first and foremost, the Father wants me to draw near to Him, and to continue to learn about who He is and who He wants to be to me.

"Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me." John 15:4

The transition has been exciting and challenging in so many ways. The first week, we spent some time as tourists, getting acclimated to the time change, while also seeing some of the beauty here in South Asia. After the first week, we got settled in basetown, which I have begun to call home.

It wasn't until part of our team took a trip and we stayed with a Muslim family during Ramadan did I feel the weight of a new culture.

God is the author of my story...if only it were easy becoming a blank page.

I was deeply challenged by that, and I realized that I want the same for myself and everyone else who follows the Father. We should all be able to look back at our own lives in twenty years and say, despite what fruit or lack of it may be present, that we were faithful through and through. It's that mindset that God has been drilling into me since the day I got here, and it has been redefining what I strive for in my future, my relationships, and my prayers.

At times it seems hopeless-- the task is so large. But I continue to be drawn to the feet of Jesus. I'm reminded that our reality is Zion-- we are sons and daughters of the living Father. I'm reminded that Jesus bridged the gap for us. Because of His loving kindness, we do not have to build ourselves up to Him.

The Lord is gracious, patient, ever faithful, omniscient, and love. He has shown this to me in so many ways, and all he wants of me right now is to trust in who he says he is. And that is the desire of my heart; the hard things are necessary, pruning is necessary, for my good and his glory.

It was in the desert that I truly began to understand the importance of rain and God’s protection and provision over us.

n a country where so much hope is lost and so many people are lost, I was reminded constantly of the Father's plan for redemption. I am just in awe of what He is doing in this place... For the movement of the Father's Spirit in this village and in these people. It was so uplifting getting to see the heart of our guides and the people throughout the village. A memory that will be stamped in my mind and heart forever.

I then looked out and begged God to lift the fog. To lift the fog around those peoples hearts and minds. Because there is the most beautiful sight, the most high God, just on the other side. And I asked God to lift the fog in my life, to take away all that obstructs my view of him. I know that God is lifting that fog.

It was like God was telling her “See R, I’ve been in love with you this whole time. Since the beginning of time—this has been my plan from the beginning, to redeem and rescue you.” R told us a couple days later that she’s been having thoughts about God like crazy.