When I am Weak, then I am Strong

Being a part of an intern team as the only national is awesome and hard at the same time. It’s a great opportunity to see God work in different parts of Slovakia and to see a bigger picture of the English Camp ministry. I love meeting new people whose hearts are passionate about Christ. I want to use the gifts and talents that God has given me to glorify His name, to serve other people, and to share His Son with non-believers.

When Mike Sullivan, a member of Josiah Venture in Slovakia, invited me to be a part of this year’s summer intern team, I was really excited about the opportunity, but faced some obstacles and fears along the way.

I was worried about raising support for this summer because I am a pastor’s kid who comes from a Slovak family with an average salary. And, tithing is not part of the culture in our country. I knew that if God wanted me to intern, He would provide, but I felt really small. I also thought it would be impossible to ask for money and support in Slovakia. However, as I talked to people from our church, I found they were willing to support me. I was very surprised when our youth leader decided to teach our youth group, around 50 students from the ages of 15-20 years old, about giving. At a youth meeting, he promoted my summer internship and encouraged students to bring some money the next week. We didn’t expect anything big, but I was excited for the students’ characters to grow. The next week, we past around a basket. The students gave around 70 Euros/$100. These young people were challenged to prayerfully sacrifice their money for supporting my ministry, and they accepted. I was shocked and amazed by God’s work and movement among my peers.

Knowing that God has provided all the support I needed makes my ministry easier this summer. I know that I am where I am only because God wants me to be here. I wouldn’t be able to make it all by myself.

I’m ready to see how God will change me: my attitude, character, and my life. Being an intern, for me, means being out of my comfort zone for the majority of the time. I have a packed suitcase and sleep in a different bed almost every week. Because I am around Americans every day, I speak mostly English, and am learning what it’s like to be submerged in an American culture among my culture. In addition, we do school promotions which are hard and super exhausting, but I am glad. Because when I am weak, then I am strong (2 Cor. 12:10). I’m learning, it’s not about me, but about Him, His strength and glorifying His name.