Surrender: 纳款 (verb) To give oneself up, as into the power of another; submit or yield (Many thanks to dictionary.com!)
In the book of Matthew, Jesus is speaking to His disciples and says “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me” (Matt 16:24). In light of this verse, I’d like to redefine “surrender”.
Surrender: 纳款 (verb) To give oneself up daily as into the power and will of God; submitting and yielding to Him daily, denying oneself daily, taking up ones cross and following Him daily.
I can’t say that being in this new city has been completely easy. I am transitioning from life in America to life in Asia. Last year, my city had 15 other workers; this year there are 4 others. Last year my main focus was on igniting church planting movements; this year my main focus is to master the language, ministry is secondary. Everything about this year is completely different from the past. But I wouldn’t change a thing!
I’m in a season where I sense God wanting to do awesome things inside of my heart. I know, without a doubt, that He is preparing me for many years of ministry ahead. As He wants to go deeper in our relationship, He has been more than patient with me. He is constantly reminding me that His love for me is without condition. His love for me will never change. It is not based on what I do or do not do. To realize this truth is more than liberating. God’s grace over my life is something that I don’t quite fully understand, but as I pursue Him first and foremost, I know He will have much to reveal. He is saying, “Stop what you are doing and LET me love you”.
I am currently living in a city with a population of almost 10 million people. The majority of these people have never heard the name of Jesus before. If I was to show them a Bible, they would have no idea what it was. These are people who are desperate and are searching for the Truth, but they don’t know where to look. My campus has over 32,000 students. As these students pursue higher education, I believe that there is still something missing. The name of Jesus will be glorified on my campus, in this city, and throughout Asia. His Spirit is at work!
I believe that as I go through this season of preparation (with mastering the language and being a pioneer in a new city) God has plans to do some awesome preparation in my heart as well. I am excited to grow in Him. As this process occurs, and as I choose to surrender to His will daily, I know that there will be blessings ahead. I have the best job in the world!!! I get to share my best friend, my Savior, and my patient Father to a generation of young people who are searching for something more. I don’t know why He chose me for this job, but I’m gonna give Him my all. But, before my ministry and before language study, I’m gonna put Jesus first!
Thank you for all your prayers!
~Amilah
P.S. It is suppose to snow today! Yayyyy!