Hi everyone! 

So, I haven't actually left for Spain yet, but I have about a week and a half left in Oregon before I fly out. I have never had a blog in the past, but I decided it would be a good idea to have one for the time I am in Spain, so that all of you can share in my journey and stay updated on how everything is going and what God is doing in my life.

I am so excited to go to Spain, but a part of me is also overwhelmed at how much I have left to do and how quickly this summer has gone by. When I pause to think about the fact that I am actually going to be thousands of miles away from home for 9 months, I get very nervous. There is one thing that keeps me going and reminds me of how amazing this opportunity is, and that is this: God is with me wherever I go. He has taught me a lot this summer and helped to revive my love for Him, and as I am step out of my comfort zone on this trip, I am comforted by the fact that I am going on this journey with Him. 

God gives a promise to the Israelites in the book of Isaiah, and I think it is true for all of His people today (my sister Jenna reminded me once that all God's promises are for all of His people, which is a good reminder for me).

 

"But now, this is what the Lord says - He who created you, O Jacob, He who formed you, O Israel: 'Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze."

I have taken this promise to heart and I am getting super excited about going to Spain!! I will miss you all though and hope you keep in touch. Please keep me in your prayers whenever you can as I am going to a place where I only know 3 other people and will probably go through a lot of trials. Thank you so much!

-Sierra