Though not entirely aware of this at the time, I came to Ecuador with many expectations—wanting answers to questions which I have never dared to fully ask, an escape from the North American culture which I both love and hate, and the distraction of adventure. Yet, ironically, I also desired a closer relationship with God. For so long I had been moving towards the opportunity to spend an extended time abroad in a foreign country, thinking this would answer many of my troubling questions about my future. But instead of answering questions, my time here has only roused more. As I approach the end of my time in Ecuador, I wrestle with questions like: “What is the next step?” “Which relationships should I strive to maintain?” and “Will I ever be returning to Quito, Ecuador, or Latin America?”.

I don’t have any answers. The sun seems to be setting on this adventure faster than I can hope to process. But as I prepare to board yet another plane and fly into another sea of unknown adventures, I find peace and joy in the same truth which steadied my feet as I embarked on this adventure— “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.” The same God who I knew to be present in Ecuador is likewise fully present in the next unknown adventure, which is fully known to Him. His presence and love as limitless as the Ocean upon which I am now looking fills me with peace and joy. My questions do not startle, baffle, or overwhelm Him. He knows the answer to all my questions, spoken and silent, and for whatever reason, He has chosen to let me walk this journey without knowing. Therefore, because of His unquestionable goodness, I am confident to walk into the unknown with all my unanswered questions.

As this adventure ends, it is enough to revel in the beauty of this setting sun, recollecting upon the many experiences had and friendships made. Though my next adventure remains uncertain, today I learned that Jim Elliot, one of my historical role models, was similarly uncertain of his future. In fact, when he plotted out five potential locations to where the Lord might lead him, all of them were incorrect (I probably shouldn’t enjoy this discovery so much, but I do.). Even though Jim Elliot did not know the next adventure, God was still faithful to walk alongside him every step of his very uncertain way. And so, after much reflection upon the words of two historical mentors, Jim Elliot and David, I must conclude this grand adventure with their words: “My cup overflows. Surely, goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life. And I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Bottom of Form