Saturday, April 7, 2007

Alana's Call to the Mission Field

We asked Mission Team Member Alana Laux to share about how God called her to come to New Orleans. The following is Alana's story, in her own words.

I had been given the gift to successfully compete in track. When the opportunity to do missionary work in New Orleans was laid before me, I felt divided between the two.
This is where my competitive will and faithful service collided. I was split by the decision – completely torn and confused. Should I stay home to continue practicing and competing in track? Or, should I serve the Lord in New Orleans instead?

As these questions and concerns continued to rise within my chaotic and whirling mind, the more I thought about the decision, and the more difficult it became to decide. At the highest peak of confusion, I looked to God for the answer. Through Him, I found it.

Initially, I had decided to stay home to continue practicing and competing in track. I felt that as an athletic competitor it was my obligation to devote my time to training. As an athlete, I felt that I was making the correct decision-but under the track suit and running shoes, I continued to feel spiritual discomfort.

It was less than one day before departure to New Orleans when the answer became clear. Like any ordinary day, I attended speed training, but that day, I felt unsettled. It was as though my heart was being spoken to. It was then apparent. Going to New Orleans would bring forth greater success and accomplishment than any track practice or competition could ever bring. This was the answer I had been waiting for!

God called to me because He needed me…He spoke to my heart…He silenced my chaotic mind… And as I write this from New Orleans, I am perfectly content with the decision He has made for me.

1 comment:

Vangy said...

Alana, I'm so proud of you! I can't wait to hear from you when you return about how God is working in your life this week. Vangy