When God Asked Me to Cook
I have been a member of GPBC for almost 40 years with so many experiences that have grown my faith over the years. One, in particular stands out to me.
Twenty-seven years ago, in 1999, I had a profoundly life-changing experience. GPBC was planning a mission trip to Mexico and needed a cook for about 60 volunteers over four days of service. I felt God speak loud and clear to me that I should volunteer. There were many reasons why I should have ignored this prompting; This volunteer responsibility was beyond the scope of my talents or abilities, and I really don't enjoy cooking! But God's voice was convincing, and I accepted the position. Fortunately, the amazing Leslie Hillman signed up to assist me. Neither of us had any experience planning menus, shopping, or cooking for a large group.
Our camp was on a very windy, hot, dusty, and relatively flat piece of land. We brought all our water, food, cooking supplies, tents, and gear with us to Mexico. Two of my children, my son Tyler, 14, and my daughter Janine, 17, were on the mission trip with me as part of the volunteer team.
Leslie and I planned meals that were easier to make for our large group. We bought all our groceries, water, and other supplies before crossing the border. I drove our large truck across the border and to our setup location. This was another new experience for me!
Leslie and I prayed often, asking God to help us with the task at hand. God answered our prayers in so many ways. Despite the harsh conditions and water constraints (no running water), the two of us managed to provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner for four days to our hardworking group of volunteers.
My children learned so much, and we all grew in our faith during those four days. The people we served while in Mexico were so grateful for the homes our volunteers built. We were all touched by the joy the children and adults expressed and their willingness to learn about God. Tyler said, “I remember building the houses and experiencing a type of contentedness in the families I had not experienced prior. This was and is instrumental in who I am and one of the core inspirations of my travels. To dive deep, connect with, and serve people of all different cultures, beliefs, and perspectives. This helps me anchor in even deeper to my faith.” Janine shared, “I have many memories from our Mexico mission trip, including tents blowing over the edge of the quarry where we all slept, and that He is so pleased when His people depend on Him!"
A verse that describes our experience well is Revelation 3:20: "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me."
There are times in our lives when we don't listen to that still, small voice, and we miss an opportunity to grow in our faith. I'm so thankful that both Leslie and I listened. I wouldn't trade this experience for anything, and I'm grateful God gave me the opportunity and the prompting.