When I was doing my 30 by 30 list, one of my goals was to work on a Habitat House. Little did I know that would take me down to the Bahamas during the summer to work on a house. You can read about that trip starting here. But the short and sweet is, I have never worked so hard in my life and never had such a good time doing it.

Since that trip I have desired to leave the comfy confines of my home life to travel to another country and be in service to another community. When I was in the Bahamas, I saw first hand another level of poverty. But I also saw people who were more content with the little they had than most people I know are with their bounty.

Don’t get me wrong, the purpose of an International Mission trip is not to neglect the poor and needy at home. I try to serve as I can on a regular basis in Charlotte. But an international trip takes a lot of commitment. Depending on where I go, there are immunizations to think about (I HATE needles), time off work, remotely planning out itineraries, etc. Plus the biggest hurdle for me is fundraising. I can not afford an international trip. But when I did it last time, I relied on the thoughtful donations of others. This is a big deal for me. If I feel like God is calling me on a specific international trip then I know the funds will be there. But, it requires me stepping out in faith and trusting in Him to provide. Something I don’t always do well.