On Christmas morning when I was six, I opened up a book full of pictures of Children from all around the world and when I saw how they lived, something inside me shifted and I felt this passion to reach them. When I was only seven I would preach to my little friends who weren’t Christians over and over again, telling them how they needed to be saved from there sins. I remember after awhile they would get kind of annoyed with me but I couldn’t help it. I just wanted everyone to know about God’s salvation.
I have always had a desire to help orphans. Then, when I was about 8 I heard this story about a missionary in Africa called Mary Slessor. Her story inspired me so much that I decided Africa was where I wanted to go! Year after year I would ask my parents to let me go to Africa and be a missionary and of course they said “Not now!”
The last few years I have been working with Child Evangelism Fellowship, teaching after school Bible Clubs and summer 5-Day-Clubs Clubs to kids in my city. I have seen over 150 children come to Jesus and their lives be changed. I absolutely loved what I was doing but I still longed to go to Africa and help the poor and hurting. So, for the 50th time I asked my parents if I could go to Africa this summer and GUESS WHAT?!? They finally agreed I was ready! I am so honored that God would choose me, that he would call me by name and give me this opportunity to share His overwhelming love and salvation with those who are so close to His heart, orphans!!!
This is my favorite verse EVER!
Isaiah 61:1 – The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, Because the LORD has anointed me To bring good news to the afflicted; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to captives And freedom to prisoners;
YAY!!! I AM SO EXITED!!! JESUS IS ALIVE!
I loved reading your story and I think that it’s great that you have had a passion for missions from a young age. I’m really glad that your parents finally said yes and that you are able to go to Swaziland this summer! I can’t wait to see how God is going to use you!
I think this story is amazing. I am so glad that your parents finally said yes and that you get to join us on this mission. I think we are all in for a life chainging experience.
Rachel
Noelle, that was so amazing and touching! I am so blessed to be a part of this team, I honestly cannot wait to meet everyone. Thanks Noelle, for such beautiful and heartfelt words.
I absolutely love that verse, and your story! I can’t wait to meet you 🙂