When I was in middle school, I asked for a book series for Christmas. Not the popular Baby-Sitters Club or Sweet Valley High books. 

I asked for missionary biographies. 

Those books inspired me to understand that God can use all sorts of people to do all sorts of things in all sorts of places- A young and poor Irish woman helped enslaved women escape in India. A young Sikh man had a vision of Christ and traveled the world sharing faith. A blinded New Yorker wrote poems and songs that inspired faith and changed education policies. Could a suburban southern girl dare to move overseas for a life of purpose and adventure? These missionary biographies gave me a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people who had the courage to say, “Yes, I can do that.” 

Often, people asked how Travis and I knew we were called to Africa. To such a weighty question, I always felt we had a rather unimpressive answer, “Well, God has given us the gifts, desire, and ability to go.” I never felt that we satisfied anyone’s question. And when we returned to the United States for cancer treatment, was our calling over? Now that my sweet husband is in heaven, what does that mean for my calling?

I recently heard a sermon about purpose, calling, and assignment that resonated with me. As the Westminister Confession offers, my purpose in life is to “glorify God and enjoy him forever.” My calling comes from the unique giftings, desire, experiences, and personality that I have been given. For me, that calling centers around teaching writing & literature, rallying people, organizing events, hosting others, and counseling in educational best practices. My purpose directs my calling in how I can glorify God and serve the world. And my assignment? Well, that is where I found freedom. God can use me anywhere.

When Aidan mentioned that he would be open to an international experience in high school, I asked God if it was time for our assignment to change. And I took one step: I had a conversation. This led to the next step which led to the next and the next. And this is where I am now in this next step- raising support to serve overseas again!

I have been offered a position as the Supervisor for Academic Support for Black Forest Academy in Kandern, Germany. As such, I will oversee the services that allow students who need additional assistance to succeed. When these students have these supports, their families are able to stay in their fields of overseas service. I love that I can glorify God and use my gifts to support students and their families. So, what is my next step? Since BFA is a school that serves kids of missionaries, the teachers raise their salaries. This brings me to ask you, would you consider supporting Aidan and me as we move overseas with Serge?

To read more, go to serge.org/amy-johnson