Embracing God's Call: Faith, Trust, and Obedience
Summary
Growing up as a missionary kid in the Dominican Republic, I learned early on the importance of faith and the reality of God’s calling. My journey began with a child’s fear of being “left behind” after reading Matthew 24, which led me to invite Jesus into my heart—more than once, just to be sure. As I grew, my faith deepened, especially through the support and prayers of my family and church community. Returning to Vancouver as a teenager, Granville Chapel became my spiritual home, a place that nurtured and challenged me.
Despite my initial resistance to missionary life—knowing firsthand its hardships and uncertainties—God gently redirected my path. Through prayer, wise counsel, and the probing questions of church elders, my motives were tested and refined. I learned that God often calls us to places and roles we never expected, and that obedience sometimes means stepping into the unknown, trusting that He will provide and sustain.
Serving in the Dominican Republic and later in Colombia, I encountered both danger and deep joy. The reality of violence, kidnappings, and spiritual opposition was ever-present, yet God’s grace was sufficient. The church in Colombia, though small and often marginalized, became a place of resilience and surprising unity, especially as barriers between Catholics and evangelicals began to break down through the simple power of God’s Word. I witnessed firsthand how forgiveness and courage—like Mrs. Morgan’s response to her husband’s murder—can transform communities and open doors for the gospel.
Returning home to care for my ailing mother was another act of obedience, one that felt uncertain and daunting. Yet, God opened new avenues of ministry, leading me into pastoral care among seniors. Even in unfamiliar territory, He provided guidance and affirmation, often through the most unexpected people and moments—like singing a camp song to a woman with severe dementia and seeing her spirit respond.
Through all these seasons, I have learned that faith and trust are not the same. Faith is believing in Christ; trust is surrendering to His will, even when the path is unclear or difficult. We are all called to be missionaries, wherever God places us, living out the truth that there is one God and one mediator, Christ Jesus. May we continue to go into all the world—near or far—and proclaim this good news with courage and love.
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Key Takeaways
- God’s Calling Often Defies Our Expectations
Sometimes, the very path we resist is the one God gently leads us down. Despite my determination never to become a missionary, God used my background, relationships, and circumstances to draw me into His purposes. Obedience often means surrendering our plans and trusting that God’s wisdom exceeds our own, even when the journey is uncomfortable or uncertain. [07:32]
- The Value of Spiritual Community and Accountability
The probing questions and honest concerns of church elders were not obstacles but gifts. Their willingness to challenge my motives and walk with me in discernment provided both protection and affirmation. True spiritual community doesn’t just affirm our desires; it helps us test and refine them, ensuring our service flows from God’s leading rather than personal ambition. [09:47]
- Grace in the Midst of Danger and Uncertainty
Living and serving in places marked by violence, spiritual opposition, and instability taught me that God’s grace is most evident when circumstances are most precarious. Training for kidnappings and facing real threats became “normal,” but God’s presence brought peace and courage. Trust is forged not in the absence of fear, but in the daily choice to rely on God’s sufficiency. [17:58]
- Forgiveness and Unity Break Down Barriers
The story of Mrs. Morgan, who chose to reach out to those who killed her husband, demonstrates the transformative power of forgiveness. When the gospel is lived out in radical love, even entrenched divisions—like those between Catholics and evangelicals—can be softened. The opening of Scripture to all brought unexpected unity and spiritual renewal, reminding us that God’s Word is the true catalyst for reconciliation. [26:23]
- God’s Guidance in New Seasons of Ministry
Returning home to care for my mother felt like a loss of purpose, but God opened new doors in pastoral care. Sometimes, the next step is revealed only as we walk in obedience, and God equips us for ministries we never imagined. Even in weakness or uncertainty, God’s Spirit leads, affirms, and bears fruit through our willingness to serve. [34:23]
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Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:36] - Early Years in the Dominican Republic
[03:36] - Childhood Encounter with Faith
[07:32] - Wrestling with the Call to Missions
[09:05] - Seeking Counsel and Discernment
[10:33] - Elders’ Questions and Blessing
[11:36] - Returning to Vancouver and New Opportunities
[13:01] - Considering Service in Colombia
[14:04] - Facing Danger and Making Hard Promises
[15:34] - Living Through Kidnappings and Uncertainty
[17:58] - God’s Grace in Difficult Circumstances
[22:37] - The Church in Colombia: Hardship and Hope
[24:45] - Breaking Down Barriers: Forgiveness and Unity
[28:11] - The Call to Return Home
[29:20] - Transitioning and Letting Go
[30:12] - New Ministry in Pastoral Care
[32:59] - God’s Leading in Unfamiliar Places
[34:23] - Lessons from Pastoral Care
[38:24] - Our Ongoing Mission and Final Encouragement
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide: Faith, Trust, and God’s Calling
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### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 24:40-42
“Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left. Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.”
2. 1 Timothy 2:5
“For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.”
3. Mark 16:15
“He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’”
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### Observation Questions
1. In Matthew 24, what warning does Jesus give about being ready for His return? How did this passage impact the speaker’s childhood faith? ([03:36])
2. According to the sermon, what were some of the challenges and dangers faced while serving in Colombia? ([15:34])
3. What did Mrs. Morgan do after her husband was killed, and how did her actions affect the relationship between Catholics and evangelicals? ([24:45])
4. When the speaker returned home to care for her mother, what new ministry opportunity did God provide? ([32:59])
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### Interpretation Questions
1. The speaker describes a difference between faith and trust. How does her story illustrate the difference between believing in Christ and surrendering to His will? ([17:58])
2. Why was the accountability and questioning from church elders seen as a gift rather than an obstacle in discerning God’s calling? ([09:47])
3. How did God’s grace show up in the midst of danger and uncertainty in Colombia? What does this suggest about God’s presence in difficult circumstances? ([17:58])
4. What role did forgiveness play in breaking down barriers between different Christian groups in Colombia? ([26:23])
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### Application Questions
1. The speaker initially resisted God’s call to missions because of fear and discomfort. Is there an area in your life where you sense God nudging you, but you’re resisting? What would it look like to take a small step of obedience this week? ([07:32])
2. The elders at Granville Chapel asked hard questions to help discern the speaker’s motives. Who in your life helps you test your motives and decisions? How can you invite more honest accountability into your walk with God? ([09:47])
3. The story of Mrs. Morgan shows radical forgiveness. Is there someone you need to forgive, or a relationship where God might be calling you to pursue unity, even if it’s difficult? ([24:45])
4. The speaker found herself in dangerous and uncertain situations but experienced God’s peace and courage. When have you felt God’s presence in a hard or scary time? How did you respond? ([17:58])
5. Returning home to care for her mother felt like a loss of purpose, but God opened new doors for ministry. Have you ever felt like a season of your life was a setback, only to see God use it in a new way? How can you look for God’s leading in your current circumstances? ([30:12])
6. The speaker’s ministry among seniors began with a simple act—singing a camp song to someone with dementia. What small, practical act of love could you offer this week to someone who might feel forgotten or overlooked? ([34:23])
7. The sermon ends with the reminder that we are all called to be missionaries wherever we are. What does “going into all the world” look like for you right now—in your family, workplace, or neighborhood? ([38:24])
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Closing Prayer:
Ask God for courage to trust Him with the unknown, for a heart willing to obey, and for eyes to see the opportunities He places in front of you—both near and far.
Devotional
Day 1: Be Watchful and Ready for Christ’s Return
Jesus calls us to live in readiness, not knowing the exact day or hour of His return. This call to watchfulness is not meant to instill fear, but to encourage a life of faith and continual relationship with Him. Even from a young age, the awareness that Christ could return at any moment can shape our prayers, our choices, and our sense of purpose. It is a reminder that our faith is not just a one-time decision, but a daily walk of trust and expectation, always seeking to be found faithful when He comes. [03:36]
Matthew 24:40-42 (ESV)
"Then two men will be in the field; one will be taken and one left. Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken and one left. Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming."
Reflection: In what area of your life do you need to renew your watchfulness and readiness for Christ’s return today?
Day 2: God’s Calling May Lead Us Beyond Our Comfort
God often calls us to places and roles we never expected, sometimes even those we once resisted. The journey of faith may lead us to step out of our comfort zones, trusting God’s provision and guidance even when the path is uncertain or challenging. When we surrender our plans and fears to Him, He can use our willingness to serve in ways that bless others and deepen our own faith. God’s calling is not always easy, but He is faithful to equip and provide for those He sends. [07:32]
Genesis 12:1 (ESV)
"Now the Lord said to Abram, 'Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you.'"
Reflection: Is there something God is prompting you to do that feels uncomfortable or uncertain? What would it look like to trust Him with that step today?
Day 3: Trusting God in Times of Danger and Uncertainty
Faith and trust are not always the same; while many believe in Christ, truly trusting Him can be tested in times of danger, loss, or uncertainty. In situations where safety is threatened or the future is unclear, God gives grace and courage to persevere. Even when circumstances are beyond our control, we can rely on God’s presence and the prayers of His people. Trust grows as we experience His faithfulness in the midst of trials, learning to rest in His sovereignty and care. [17:58]
Psalm 56:3-4 (ESV)
"When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?"
Reflection: When have you faced a situation that required you to trust God beyond your own strength? How can you lean into His faithfulness in a current challenge?
Day 4: The Power of God’s Word to Break Down Barriers
God’s Word has the power to transform hearts and break down divisions, even those that seem insurmountable. When people are able to read and encounter Scripture for themselves, it can bring unity, healing, and new understanding across lines of difference. The opening of the Bible to those who had never read it before led to unexpected friendships and reconciliation, showing that God’s truth is living and active. The simple act of sharing and studying Scripture together can be a catalyst for change in individuals and communities. [26:23]
Hebrews 4:12 (ESV)
"For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart."
Reflection: Who in your life could you invite to read or discuss God’s Word with you, trusting that it can bring understanding and unity?
Day 5: Every Believer Is Called to Be a Missionary
The call to share the gospel is not limited to those who serve overseas; every follower of Jesus is sent to be a witness wherever they are. Whether at home or abroad, in familiar places or new ones, we are all given the privilege and responsibility to proclaim Christ and serve others. God equips each of us uniquely for the mission field He places us in, and our daily lives can be a testimony to His love and truth. Let us remember and live out the truth that there is one God and one mediator, Jesus Christ, and let that shape our purpose and actions each day. [38:24]
Mark 16:15 (ESV)
"And he said to them, 'Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.'"
Reflection: What is one practical way you can live as a missionary in your own community this week?
Quotes
But you know when you're in it God gives the grace and it was no big deal it was just that's the way life was yeah you just experience yeah faith and trust I think are different I think most of us that know Jesus Christ as Savior have faith but sometimes it takes a long time or we need to have trust yeah and and I still struggle with that in certain areas of really trusting like even for today again. [00:20:14] (58 seconds)
So I went into her room, and she was yelling, and she was screaming, and I thought, Lord, what do I do? So I just started to sing one of the camp songs, Christian camp songs. And all of a sudden, she just quiet and bright down and started singing with me. [00:34:23] (20 seconds)
Well, as I mentioned to you, and we are all missionaries, it doesn't matter where we live. And I just, I think for us, our missionaries are 75th I won't be here for the 100th so I'll say it now that that I hope we keep on with the that was read today go into all the world and and preach the gospel to every creature. [00:38:13] (29 seconds)
So, I did. And something that came to me as I was praying one day was, you know, these people that you're going to be visiting are older and likely—maybe some of them haven't heard the good news. So, are you going to turn down a calling for that? [00:33:12] (23 seconds)
So I thank George for what he meant to me in just helping me establish myself here. I thank Cam and Kay is another one that we miss terribly, who impacted all our lives, but certainly mine with Cam in missions. And so here I am, doing what they were. [00:36:54] (33 seconds)
And I appreciated that he felt that way. And I was able to talk to him about it. We actually became very close. And I know he prayed very much for me. Yeah. And, well, the Lord answered his prayer. [00:10:33] (16 seconds)
And then I have taken many courses and been at the bedside of many people who are in their last days. And I had the privilege of being with George Rich last Sunday afternoon and just having one -on -one time with him. I went in fear and trembling because I knew he was very ill. [00:35:44] (30 seconds)
And as a matter of fact, one of the things that I had to do, and because I did go, that I had to do, as well as Eva, who I lived with, was a promise, or I don't remember if I signed anything, but there was a lot of kidnapping going on at that time. So we signed, or gave our word, that if we were kidnapped, there was no ransom to be paid. [00:14:46] (29 seconds)
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