this is the great adventure: catching up

Here is my last letter from the internship, written in June. I know it's August, but I promise to put more updates soon!

Family and friends,

Soo sa day! Jo jet bpoa ey? That means, “Hello! What’s your favorite color?” Unfortunately, that’s about all I managed to learn of Khmer, the language of Cambodia. Good thing I was still able to love the people and serve them without being able to communicate verbally. Isn’t that so beautiful? People all over the world speak different languages, but you don’t have to speak the same language to love someone well. My month spent in Cambodia was filled with so much love. Love from the orphans we played with at Haley’s House, love from vendors in the market with whom we formed relationships, and love from random people on the street who smiled back at us as we drove by. God moved in incredible ways within the members of our team. We were all challenged to open our eyes to the realities of a completely different culture and figure out what role we play in God’s plan for Cambodia. What role do we play? What role do you play? Leigh Anne, who heads up a village outreach program for Asian Hope, answered this question by saying, “The role you play is whatever God leads you to.” Amen.

I still cannot believe that it’s over; that I’m back in the Intern office typing you my last support letter. My fellow Interns and I are wrapping up all of the paperwork from our mission trips, fundraisers, and areas of ministry, and I am so glad for the chance to reflect on everything that’s happened this year. This morning in our staff meeting, we were asked to name an area of significant growth in our lives this year. Mine was learning to fully depend on God and others. I learned the hard way on several occasions that I cannot do everything. Imagine that! I had to depend on others and trust their support. The most important thing that happened to me this year was when I fully surrendered my life to God in order for Him to reveal the next step in His plan for my life.

I cannot wait to begin the next chapter of my life, but I am sad to leave behind the ministry that was the catalyst God used to get me to this point. Six years ago, I had just graduated high school and was getting ready to come to LA Tech. I don’t remember having a plan to find a campus ministry, but this one found me. Throughout my years as a student, this community was where I experienced God and was challenged to become a better disciple of Christ. My plan was to get my undergrad and then my Master’s, but somewhere along the way, I felt God tugging at my heart and telling me He had something more for me. I still remember the certainty I felt about applying for the Internship. It’s the same certainty I feel now about my calling to Cambodia. Ain’t it great how God will work in your life if you just let Him?

I don’t know what my life would have been like without the Wesley Foundation and all of the staff and students who invested in my life. My time here is done, but I will carry these experiences with me in my heart forever. I pray that you continue to pray for and support the Wesley in whatever way you are able. I can’t wait to see how God grows this ministry in the coming years.

Thank you so much for taking this journey with me, and I pray God blesses you as you have blessed me!

Love,

Meredith