One of
the biggest questions that I’ve asked myself as I’ve read… “How does an introvert like
me do this?” I’m not very comfortable around strangers and I suck at small
talk. I’m just not convinced that I’m cut out for all this. After reading
about Jen’s experience befriending and ministering to the homeless population,
I got caught up in that one response to the “Feed my sheep” command.
Although
one part of me has been pondering and considering big life changes, the other
part has really been concerned that I’m
mentally/physically/spiritually/financially prepared for that right now. Our
conversations on Sunday afternoon reminded me of something I already knew but
seemed to have lost sight of… there are many different ways to interact with
God, and what works for one person might not work for someone else. To quote something I read lately, "If you're not called to Africa, don't go to Africa!"
Jen
stresses the fact that this book is not a how-to manual. It’s the story of her
journey. And, because each one of us brings different perspectives,
experiences, and skill-sets to the table, it’s no wonder that our discernment
destinations will be different as well.
The
challenge is… “How do I use these gifts that I, Jana, have been given?” There might be
additional ways that I can exert myself... using new techniques, in
new places, reaching new people. But, there also may be ways that I can do what
I'm already doing, but better. Our group even mentioned that marriage and
childrearing can be a ministry in itself. Not to mention, being there for other
women when they're overwhelmed and stressed.
And,
just to confirm my little epiphany, I happened upon a couple of bloggers who
seem to have reached a similar conclusion:
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What does "missional living" look like in your life?
