The concept of “planting seeds” has stuck with me during the past several days of SMI. As we are always encouraged to share the gospel during our outreaches, we are also reminded that it is not by our efforts and skill that people are drawn to Jesus, but it is solely Jesus in his power that draws others to himself. Having this is mind, we are given both boldness and humility in our sharing of the gospel. Boldness because we are free to share even in our weaknesses, and humility because we realize God is really, really strong. Sometimes when I stumble over words or I lack the courage to actually say the name “Jesus”, I am intensely reminded of this fact. And since every person we meet is at a different point in their lives, it is impossible to know where they are standing with Christ. But He does. So when we are met with rejection, and sometimes with welcoming hearts, we can be sure that somehow in some way we may never understand, God is with us.
One of the main problems of a Christian is forgetfulness. Forgetfulness of God’s grace, his love and mercy leads us astray. A full week and more has gone by, but it feels like an entire season has passed. This could definitely be a manifestation of my forgetfulness, but it is definitely true in the fact that a season of my life has passed. In my studies of my journey to become a doctor, I had forgotten about the same exact hand that has been in my life and the same exact eyes that have watched over me. I had gone into SMI thinking it could be a sort of light and warmth that may clear the fogginess and anxiety of my mind—but more importantly my heart.
And it definitely has. During this trip, God has undeniably revealed to me that the failures and times of suffering in the last few years have not been in vain—that they were seeds to my increased love for others, my love for community, and ultimately my testimony and witness as a Christian. SMI has stretched me in ways that have culminated in a host of lessons and blessings that had been watered and cultivated in my heart for a long time.
-David Lee-