A Reflection on God’s Goodness and Sovereignty

A Reflection on God’s Goodness and Sovereignty

“Oftentimes, we can enter the mission field with great expectation and hope for seeing God work in a radical way. And I am not saying this is a bad thing by any means; we should carry a heart posture of excited anticipation as we hold the truth of the Gospel within us. However, I was reminded on my trip to Albania that our perception of God working in the lives of others is so limited by our own imperfect understanding of His character.
I have never been on a mission trip before. I would also admit that what may be considered a gift of evangelicalism is not one that I am strong in. Though this reality does not excuse me from The Great Commission, it presented itself as a challenge during my time in Albania. Unlike many of my peers that I had the joy of traveling with, I did not feel like I played a fundamental role in any of the students’ encounter with Christ. I did not have any transformative conversations, nor did I see any radical responses to the Gospel as I had hoped I would. I had loved the kids well, had fun with them, and even shared the gospel with many of them, but there seemed to be no fruit. This could have been a point of frustration for me, a desire to give up due to feeling insignificant. But I know the Lord protected my heart and used this experience as an opportunity to reveal Himself in a new light; he revealed himself as a God of Patience.
I have known that He is patient, but I did not understand this concept in its fullness. God does not work according to our perception of time. Our desire to measure someone’s spiritual progress by moments in time, such as a time as a Bible camp, does a disservice to the spiritual journey God has authentically created for each of His children. I have no idea what seeds were being planted as I simply loved on the students in my English class. I understand my spiritual gifts concern more discipleship, theological discussions, and engaging and challenging conversations. However, the language barrier on this mission trip revealed that God is able to work just as well without me and my gifts. And yet he chooses to use me even in my own weaknesses. Who am I to be upset if I do not tangibly lead someone to Christ? Who am I to question the role Christ has given me in His plan?
God has graciously invited me to be a part of His good work, and to expect to do anything apart from where He wishes to use me would be a shame. So, though I did not leave my trip with what felt like any incredible stories to take home with me, I left with rest; a rest in knowing that God’s timing is perfect and He possesses the oversight over every child’s life. He knows the hearts of the kids I wish I had gotten to know better, and He knows exactly where they stand in their relationship with Him. I was faithful in going where I was called, and I trust that God honors that, even if I am not there to witness the moment of salvation for a multitude of the students. Afterall, it’s not about me, it’s about Him and His desire to bring those He loves closer to Him.
He did exactly that with both the students of the Albanian English camp, and even me. And for that, I rejoice in the Albanian missions trip of 2025.”
– Hadley Elgard