Sophomore | Biola

In 2016, my sister went to Cambodia through KCM’s Short Term Summer Missions program. I only heard good things from her experience but never did I think it would be my turn to go on missions. The head space I’ve been at for three years in college has been relatively focused on school, work, and managing my social life. Despite all that was happening, missionary work hadn’t crossed my mind until my dad asked if I was interested in going with Kristos Campus Missions (KCM). I always knew about this organization that sent collegians to serve in different countries for 3-4 weeks. But I didn’t consider it because I had no incentive to go. With that posture in mind, I already knew this was a problem I needed to confront the Lord with. Why did I need a specific reason to further His Kingdom other than wanting to share the gospel? From there I knew I needed to go and experience exactly how God was working in the different countries KCM served in: Cambodia, Nicaragua, Japan, and India. When applying I put neutral for all the locations and fully entrusted God to place me where He wanted me to go. 

To my surprise, I got placed in India. When I found out, my body froze in shock as there was such a misconception about the country's extreme difficulties physically, mentally, and spiritually. Nevertheless, I prepared my heart to give my all. As I gradually got to know my team members and collaborated with them during the Preparation Week and Intensive Retreat, I observed their genuine dedication to service. This realization brought me a sense of peace and gratitude, as I recognized that God had orchestrated a team fervently committed to serving His purpose. 

Fast forward, we finish training strong and make it to India. Aside from the humid weather, the different foods, and distinct bathrooms facilities. We put in what was only possible through the pure joy of serving God and the camaraderie that infused us while engaged in ministry. Despite language barriers and cultural disparities, we gave our all, perspiring in our efforts. In the midst of serving, I found myself asking God to provide me with the best mission trip I could experience because though I was eager to serve, my final decision going into this trip was that it would be my first and last. However, the second week presented unexpected challenges as I battled a persistent stomach ailment, that involved me needing to take constant bathroom trips, and that lasted for what felt forever–a week and a half. Then as I started to recover and slowly participate once more in ministry during the final day of ministry, I was gifted with a lovely migraine. It proved to be the most agonizing headache I had ever experienced. In moments like these, I could have counted it as difficult, but rather I was reminded of God’s omnipotence and strength. These episodes underscored that I was merely an instrument in God’s symphony, with the knowledge that not everyone in the orchestra needed to be playing simultaneously. His sovereignty shone through, illuminating the fact that He chooses the vessels He deems fit to advance His Kingdom. With that in mind, I was humbled and reminded of God’s supreme authority and promoted a desire to deepen my relationship with Him–to encounter not just knowledge of Him, but to truly experience His presence and character.