Boldness over Fear

To Gulu, 

Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game 

- Babe Ruth 

These past three months have be been a battle for me. Some days fear has gotten the best of me. Since moving to the other side of the world, I have been comparing my self to Timothy (referring to Timothy of Biblical times). Paul, Timothy's mentor, had to tell him constantly not to be timid or fearful but to be brave and bold instead. Paul is a lot like my mom and dad. I always get calls from them reminding me that I am called to Africa and not to let Satan tell me otherwise. 

My best fear is speaking to a group of adults. I am SO out of my comfort zone when it comes to this!! A room full go kids, no problem! I could do anything not to speak in front of crowds full of adults, which is why I went to school to become a CHILDREN'S pastor. God obviously has a different plan for my life as I am currently training children's pastors.

This past Saturday was the first training session for children's pastors and ministry volunteers. A half hour before starting I was so scared, but once it got going I was looking around the room and felt a wave of calmness cover the room. We jumped right in and got to introduce ourselves and I taught on the role of a children's pastor. I felt so comfortable standing in front of everyone.

I think... NO WAIT! I know it is because I love what I do, and I want the world to know!

God gave me a passion to teach children and to teach others how to teach. When I was getting to know the different leaders who came, I was so inspired as they spoke on why they chose to be a part of children's ministry. Everyone has a story of pain, but instead of bottling it up we can share with others and help them through the situations we face. Most of these leaders lived through the war, and they have been hurt in so many ways, and yet once they spoke about sharing the gospel with children their face lit right up! Their stories helped me with fear, as they have lived through so much. These leaders are real-life heroes and I cannot wait to equip them so they can equip the next generation. I still cannot believe I spoke in front of these amazing leaders!

Every Saturday morning (repeated on Wednesday for those who have other commitments) will be level one training for 8 weeks. Then I will offer level 2, a more in-depth level with more lesson planning. After that, I will be focusing on level 3, an intestine for the key team leadership ( a hand-picked group of leaders who will carry out children's programs here in Gulu!).

These past three months have been a battle. However, I am winning with God on my side. 

With love, Shelre 

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