The time has finally come.

In just 3 days I head across the border to Mexico for the next 10 months to get the training I need to move long term to an underdeveloped, remote part of the world. This time is designed to equip me with the tools needed to be effective and avoid unnecessary attrition before the task is complete. I will learn how to acquire culture and language in a place where there is no formal language. I will also be learning how to start a business if that ends up being something I need to do in my next context.

It’s crazy, it’s exciting…I am so grateful to step into this next season and yet, I find myself battling the oddest fears that rage with in me – HOWEVER – coexisting with those fears, there is a peace that passes all understanding.

A peace that is hard to explain, but I know it is there. A peace that comes from knowing God is bigger than all of my fears. He is bigger than all the unknown that lies before me. I am encouraged by the truth found in Ephesians 3:20, that God “is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us.” And 1 Corinthians 2:9 that reminds me that I cannot even IMAGINE what God has prepared for me as I love Him and trust Him and walk in obedience. HOW CRAZY IS THAT???  

Hudson Taylor – a missionary to China in the late 1800s – once said,

“God uses men who are weak and feeble enough to lean on him.”

In this season, there are many times I feel weak and feeble. I am reminded more than ever that I need the Lord and am in awe of how He continues to strengthen me each day. It’s unlike any time of my life. There is a complete surrender and dependence that the Lord is going before me.

While away, I will try to be in communication as much as possible but we are limited to about 30 minutes of Wifi access a week so not sure how often I will be able to update. WHAT A WILD ride we are embarking on!! One of my biggest prayers in this journey has been, “God, I know you are with me, but I don’t want to do this alone.” And I am so thankful for those who have come alongside me to pray, to open their home, to speak truth, to financially sacrifice to make this happen, to listen to me as I process—each of you are a tangible example to me of God providing.

I love you guys.  

OH…if you would like to send me mail you can you send that to:
Rachel Closs
C/O RI Students
PO Box 530159
San Diego, CA 92153