3 Weeks Mission and 1 Week Work: The Lord Provides
One of the best things that I looked forward to about finishing college and getting a job is to be able to sustain myself and support my family. True enough, I was able to meet that need since I was formally employed in 2011.
However, one of the life-changing realizations and moments I experienced as a missionary was not having enough personal money but feeling satisfied, happy, and fulfilled at the end of the day.
In February 2020, just before the pandemic hit, I signed up to join all the missions of Pure Heart Philippines for that month. We were scheduled to facilitate a recollection for the diocesan schools in Dumaguete from February 2 to 8. From February 17 to 20, we also facilitated another retreat for the Grade 9 students of Talamban National High School. Then, we were set to go back to Dumaguete for another set of recollections from February 23 to 27. I overestimated myself. I already survived a 2-week mission while working, so I thought, why not make it three? So crazy of me. The mission at Dumaguete ended up with a lot of road trips, and I didn’t find time to work. I ended up asking my clients to pause my work. I tried to finish all my pending tasks for the month in one week so that I can focus on the missions. Then, I just left everything in the hands of God knowing that my salary wouldn’t be enough to meet my other needs aside from the bills.
There’s Provision for the Lord’s Mission
As it turned out, I was well-provided throughout the mission days. We were provided food and accommodation. Thanks to the generosity of the families, schools, and communities we served. We were also able to enjoy a side trip to Siquijor. And most importantly, I saw the lives of countless students from different walks of life. As they shared with us their stories, I pondered on the idea that we really share the same problems. I encountered kids with the same problems as mine. I also met students who’ve endured traumatic situations.
