This cross-cultural mission made such an impact on my life.
I always believe that everything that happens in our lives is part of God’s beautiful plan. Last September 2023, I heard about this cross-cultural mission trip to South East Asia.
I prayed to God about it. I had many things to consider: first, my finances; second, I didn’t have a passport; third, I was deeply broken, in a season of healing, finding my purpose, and reconnecting with God. My heart was willing, and I was excited to return to mission work, but this time it was further away, and I expected it to be more challenging and life-changing. That’s why I prayed hard for it.
I asked God for His confirmation, and He gave me this Bible verse, Psalm 32:8: “I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go.”
My prayer was for redirection and to walk in the purpose God has for my life in this season.
Months passed, and by December 2023, they had booked their flights. I had just booked my passport appointment. I prayed, “Lord, let me walk in Your purpose if it’s Your will for me to join this trip,” because I faced several failed scheduling attempts until, thank God, I got an appointment before the IDC in January.
Finally, I received my passport. Immediately upon its arrival, I complied with all the requirements for Heart4Asia, filled out necessary forms, and, of course, booked my ticket. I didn’t have enough money, but God provided just what I needed for the trip and all its preparations.
It was a walk-by-faith mission trip for me. I didn’t know what would happen to me. At first, I thought I needed to go far away for my healing process. During our online meetings and preparations, I cried while dealing with everything with God. How could I do this mission if I was emotionally damaged and fearful? But I prayed and asked God to take everything. I surrendered my thoughts, feelings, and everything to Him.
LOVE CASTS OUT FEAR. I experienced the love of Jesus. He gave me a new heart, willing to serve Him and make Him known.
I had many realizations and revelations from God during this mission trip.
During our stay at MPT Village, I saw children content with their lives. Despite their trauma and longing for their families, they had joy in their hearts and souls.
I realized that no matter my situation, I could still have joy in my heart.
Life at MPT Village seemed uncomfortable with no signal, electricity, or water. But by the grace of God, I felt no discomfort. It wasn’t the culture and life I was used to, but I had to die to self and deny myself. I wasn’t the Dei from Baler.
I was Judith, called and brought by the Lord on this mission trip to share His love and testify to His goodness.
Seeing the children singing, praying, and studying the word of God amazed and challenged me. Just as I had prayed to walk in God’s purpose, this experience awakened my real purpose in life: to know Him and make Him known.
My trauma, fear of connections, and building trust and relationships with others began to heal through these children. Their smiles, hugs, and appreciation brought healing to my soul. They gave me hope and courage to fight my battles. Through their genuine hearts, I experienced the love of the Lord even more.
One of the most impactful experiences for me was seeing these children worship God and sing the song “Immanuel.” I didn’t understand the lyrics, but I found it sweet and personal to God.
I was amazed by the devotion of the children and teachers to the Lord. They had no luxuries and didn’t know there was another world beyond theirs. I am also blessed and thankful to be with the right people, from our team leader Ate Debbie Galzote, Ps Emil, Mommy Chat, Ate Chee, Ate Hay, Ate Girly, Aly, and Che. These people inspired me and gave me the courage to do missions.
God is slowly putting me back together, piece by piece. Indeed, this is part of my healing process. Despite everything I’ve been through, the biggest impact of this cross-cultural mission on me is learning to be grateful in life.
Choosing to live with the love of God, I realized that my trauma, though significant, pales compared to what these children have endured. They need to be saved and given a safe space, which they found in the Lord.
These experiences gave me a greater burden for the community, especially for children. Knowing that these children can’t survive on their own, but by the grace of God, they are able to live with joy, challenged me. It challenged me to pray for them every day, save money to support them, and reach out to children in my community, specifically in Sitio Vietnam. Starting in July 2024, we will begin our children’s ministry. For my next mission trip, I will save money and undergo training and coaching for strategic missions.
To God be all the glory.