Bucket showers and a miserable soul. That’s what I thought of when I heard the word “missions”. My younger self would never have thought I would be on a missions trip. My parents and Grandparents were all full time missionaries for decades, and I love both travel and service; but I have never really felt truly called, and it seemed so out of my comfort zone. I graduated a little bit early this past May. My parents were not in love with me going to college younger than everyone else, so they enforced a gap year. I had been searching for what to do, but all my plans fell through. My original plan for college, then a job, then a Bible school in Greece, then a travel year… every single one of my plans didn’t work out. In hindsight, I think it was God nudging me toward His plan.
After being frustrated for weeks, I found world race. I dismissed it because I didn’t want to be gone a full year. I quickly turned my attention to other paths, but then I saw, last minute, this trip to Italy and Albania. Learning, service, Italy, coffee, 4 months, Biblical teaching: It was the dream. The return date lined up exactly with my established plans- God, working His purpose in my life.
Through out this discovery of what my future will look like, I have learned one thing: His way is higher than my way, than what I want. Although this was never in my plan, I am excited to chase this calling and be a part of his bigger plan for me and the people we will impact. His ways are higher, and we must submit.
I am excited to begin a new journey- to grow in my faith and help the faith of others. I hope that you will join me in this in whatever way you can; whether that is financially, prayerfully or even just listening to my story unfold.
May He who is able to do far more than we could ever ask or imagine bless you and keep you!
Zoe D. Goke
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