Our team has officially arrived in Kotodesh, and we’ve stepped wholeheartedly into the ministry God has placed before us. From the moment we arrived, we have been intentional about diving deep into His Word and following the path He is laying out for us. Each day has brought unique opportunities to serve, share, and witness how the Good News can transform lives.

In just these past few days, we’ve been able to pour into children’s ministry, come alongside the local church in their services, and step out into the streets to share Christ with anyone willing to listen. Street evangelism has stretched us outside of our comfort zones, but it has also reminded us that the message of Jesus is for everyone, no matter where they come from or what their story looks like. We should be reaching out everywhere we go to spread the good news. Beyond that, we’ve been working on projects around the church to help make our host's life a little easier. Even in these tasks, we’ve been reminded that no act of service is too big or small  when it’s done for the Lord.

As a team, we’ve also been growing in ways that go far beyond outward ministry. We’ve had rich discussions about what it means to truly work together as the body of Christ, recognizing what we’re doing well, being honest about what can be improved, and choosing to approach each other with grace. This journey has required compromise, sacrifice, and a willingness to become comfortable with the uncomfortable. None of us came expecting an easy road, but we are certain this is the path the Lord has called us to walk, both individually and as a team.

The transition has not been without its challenges. Adjusting to new rhythms, new surroundings, and new responsibilities has been stretching, but slowly we are finding our stride. With each passing day, the difficulties feel less like obstacles and more like opportunities for growth. And through it all, we’re reminded that the Lord is faithful, and that He is using every step of this journey to shape us for His purpose. 

As the days go on, I feel myself drawing closer to the Lord in ways I never imagined. It’s incredible how much growth He can bring about in such a short time. Even though I’ve only been here for a few weeks, I already feel the deep impact of what it means to be fully immersed in His presence and His work. Surrounded by constant opportunities to serve, to love, and to reflect Christ to others, I’ve been able to press deeper into my relationship with Him.

It’s one thing to know about God’s love, but it’s another to live in a place where you’re daily reminded to depend on Him and to extend that love to others. Every conversation, every act of service, every challenge and moment of discomfort has been shaping me, drawing me out of my own strength and pushing me into His. It’s been powerful, humbling, and life-giving all at once and I can already see how He is using this season to transform me from the inside out.