Jessica Barnes's Blog
Expectations / 10.01.08, 03:26 PM
I can’t even count how many times at Mission Year orientation we heard the phrase “don’t have expectations.” During devotionals one morning, we wrote down all of our expectations for the year on index cards, then tore them up and threw them on the ground. Speakers, Mission Year alumni, and city directors told us that we might not end up at the service sites we thought we would, we might not have the perfect community living situations, we might disagree with our roommates, and the neighborhood might not look the way we had imagined. They also told us that by eliminating all of these expectations we had created, we would be able to make room for God to carry out his plans for us. We’ve been reminded over and over that this year isn’t about any of us, it’s about God and we’re just a part of his plan for our communities.
Since getting to New Orleans a few weeks ago (finally, after so much confusion and change of plans) nearly all of my expectations have been destroyed (in the best way possible!) I was expecting a community full of people and organizations rebuilding the city. Instead, we found houses still destroyed from Hurricane Katrina three years ago, most without hope of being rebuilt. I was expecting people in the area to be as passionate about social justice as I am. Instead, we found that most of the organizations dedicated to serving the community are closed down and boarded up. I was frustrated at first and disappointed by the lack of…everything in the neighborhood. Then we started walking through the community and really looking for neighbors and activity. We might have to search for relationships to build and areas to serve, but I feel like in the end, it’ll definitely be well worth the effort.
All of that is to say, we’re finally here! We’re moved in and becoming a part of the neighborhood and it feels so great to have a place to call home for the year. We’ve gone to events at our church and spent some time with neighborhood kids in the park. Now we’re getting ready to start at service sites and really get involved in the community. I’m so excited to share the experience with all of you!
“In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.”
-Proverbs 16:9
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Jessica, I’m very proud of you. Love, Mom
By Mom / Oct 3, 11:18 AM / #
Jay Jay – you rock! Thanks for sharing – keep it coming. Many prayers and blessings as you serve Christ.
By Lindsay Kate / Oct 22, 03:55 PM / #