Calling to Ministry (Inspired by InterVarsity’s FD Manuel)

⁶ "I, the LORD, have called you in righteousness;
I will take hold of your hand.
I will keep you and will make you
to be a covenant for the people
and a light for the Gentiles,

⁷ to open eyes that are blind,
to free captives from prison
and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness.

Isaiah 42:6-7

I have always known that I wanted to be involved with ministry and specifically with missions. When I was 18 I went to Mexico for a soccer mission’s trip. Sharing the Good News and loving children as a reflection as the Father’s love was the most fulfilling thing I had ever experienced. I loved being able to use the gift and talent of soccer that God had given me and use it to glorify Him. I didn’t want to go to college but wanted to get involved with missions right away. God almost had to push me through the door to go to college. That is when I found InterVarsity. I immediately fell in love with IV missionary focus to reach the campus and thus the world. IV taught me about God’s heart for the poor and injustice issues. God’s heart for the poor is all over the Bible, yet I never heard about it growing up in church. I got involved with a great community that taught me what it means to love sacrificially. I learned how to pray. Not just talking to God, but listening to Him, intercede for others and to pray for healing. I had great friends and leaders who were my mentors. It felt very easy and natural to join IV staff. During my discernment process I had to make sure that I wasn’t choosing the safe option, by joining staff. I love being on staff. I can’t really explain the incredible peace and reassurance from the Holy Spirit that I am exactly where I am suppose to be. I love seeing students get deeper with God. I love it when God convicts them on an issue and they repent and rise to the challenge. I love seeing them take risks to be a light, if that means talking to a neighbor in class or going on a summer mission trip. Remembering my calling excites and encourages me. I am not sure how long I will be with IV. But for now I see the need at the UNLV, Nevada State and CSN and I am excited and humbled that God has chosen me to be a minister of the gospel to college students.

Thank you God for letting me have a role in your plan to reach college students in Las Vegas. Please remind me of the joys when times get hard. Let my heart reflect your heart for students and for the campuses. Let my ears continue to hear your voice for wisdom, direction and how to lead. May my actions bring you glory. Amen.