- When did you first know God was calling you to the mission’s field?
During my first mission trip as a teenager, I prayed asking God what his plans were for my life. I heard God say he wanted me to be a missionary. Worried that I was just on a spiritual high of a mission trip, I asked again the next day and again when I got home. Every time I asked for confirmation, God gave it.
- Who is someone who influenced you in your decision to serve as a missionary in a cross-cultural setting?
I was invested in by my pastors and youth leaders growing up. People in the church gave me opportunities to not just serve but to lead. These experiences made me more confident to use my gifts and seek opportunities to use them.
- What life experiences did you have that helped you prepare to go overseas?
There is no better preparation than experience. Since my first missions trip in 2015, I have been on seven additional missions trips. Each trip brought on new learning and fresh perspectives on God’s heart for the nations.
- How would you describe your first year on the mission field?
Stepping onto a new mission field always fills me with such excitement and curiosity. Getting a new glimpse at how big and diverse God has made this world always warms my heart. Living in a new place can also be full of hesitations and frustrations. When nothing is like what you’re used to, it can be difficult to accomplish the most simple things. Within the excitement and the frustrations, I know God is with me always, even to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20).
- What are some of the ways you have been affirmed in following God’s leading?
One of the ways I have been affirmed is through the encouragement of the people around me. Friends, family, professors, classmates, and pastors have all added their voices to affirm the calling God has placed on my life. The NAB Fit Assessment was also a huge affirmation that confirmed my calling. Having so many people speak into my life and pray for me made me certain that missions was what God wanted me to do.
- What initial fears/concerns did you have about serving as a missionary overseas?
As I plan to join the mission field in Japan, there are a few things that make me apprehensive. Part of my desire to go to Japan is because of the rampant loneliness amongst the Japanese people. My concern is that going to the country alone will add to my own loneliness instead of help others.
- What are some of the factors that lead you to become an overseas missionary through the NAB?
I grew up attending an NAB church in Edmonton, Alberta, – Northgate Baptist Church. People like Yuri Nakano and Elsie Lewandowski would visit my church on home assignment, and their presence encouraged me to go through the NAB.
- What advice would you give to those considering overseas missions?
My advice for those considering missions would be: Go! Go and see God’s Kingdom around the world around the world. God calls all of us to ‘make disciples of all nations.’ God has a unique way for you to participate in that great commission. Be open and brave to accept all God has for you.
- How can people pray for you?
Please pray for me that I would be diligent in the work set before me. Pray that I would be a good steward of all God has given me, including work and time. Please also start praying that I would make good connections and relationships once I reach Japan. Pray that the people would be open to conversations with ears to hear.