“And the Lord answered me: ‘Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it. For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end—it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay.’” - Habakkuk 3:2-3
Almost three years ago, I found myself sitting in the parking lot of my work asking God: “should I quit my job and move to Thailand.” To my surprise, God’s answer was “stay” and I was left asking “what then?”
Since I started my career as a business person, I felt a gap between my work life and my faith. I would tell myself that the striving for promotions, experience, and power were all for God’s kingdom but deep inside I felt empty, alone, and questioned the greater purpose of it all. Looking out into the world I saw the untouched brokenness and knew there must be something more that can be done.
As I questioned, God has journeyed me over the last seven years through an extended process including Africa, a workplace shooting, being laid off, a long commute, and Thailand. Each of these experiences changed my heart in some way, whether towards loving people or simply trusting God. While my journey continues, I’ve learned an overall truth: following God is a choice we make every day in each moment; it doesn’t require us to fly around the world or lose a job. God simply asks us to be obedient to Him today in whatever circumstances we are in or resources we have.
A little over two years ago, I found myself in Thailand on Easter morning preparing for a week of determining how business people might help women coming out of prostitution find sustainable finances. As I sat jetlagged in a children’s center turned church, I was given a hard-boiled egg that read Habakkuk 3:2-3. God calls us to obedience and patience for His visions to come in our lives. Since that time, He has given me opportunities at my work, in Thailand, and in Pasadena to use my business skills and show His love for His kingdom.
If you are interested in finding out how God might use your business skills for His kingdom, please come to the Business as Mission Luncheon on Sunday, May 20 at 12:30 pm in the 4th floor of Hutchins Hall and hear how He is already at work. The cost is $5 per person and no reservation is required.