A need has come to my attention the more time I've spent with Adventures in Missions. All one has to do is be around for a portion of training camp to see that many World Racers come to serve, but what they walk away with is a stronger and lighter self.  In other words, they go on a journey of healing. 

Healing: growing sound; getting well; mending.

For a good portion of my life, I have been fascinated by medicine.  The body, as a whole, is so complex and truly incredible.  My decision to go on the World Race changed my direction from nursing school to working in ministry.  I've talked about this before, but recently, I had a revelation!

My focus has shifted from physical bodies to the body of Christ.

I'll say it again: the body, as a whole, is so complex and truly incredible.  That statement applies here, but now it is referring to all of the individuals that make up the body of Christ. While I was abroad, I never felt my heart break for a particular ministry, but I wanted to be able to focus more of my attention on my team, their personal growth, and healing.  So, while my interest in healing and the body still holds, it's just shifted to more of a spiritual and emotional perspective.  I can still be a part of the healing process, but more as an assistant to the Great Physician.  

Did you catch that?  

I can be a physician's assistant to God when it comes to the healing of the body of Christ!!!

What a cool parallel!  I've struggled to reconcile my interest in medicine with my decision to dive into ministry and here is my answer!  Being at CGA has taught me more about the personalities, gifts, leadership styles, types of service, strengths, and weaknesses that show up in different types of people.  Where one person may have a strength, another may be lacking which leads to balance and a well-rounded community.  If any particular part is hurting, the entire group struggles.  That is why it is so essential to help with the health of the body and to understand each of the individual parts.  

OK, God, I'll be the PA to your Physician.  Done.