Mission Palau
So, I'm currently in Koror, Palau doing mission work as a physical therapist, dental assistant, and for all I know I might even be a literature evangelist. I never thought I'd be running a PT clinic as a pre-physical therapy student; but here in Palau, the need is plentiful, and the regulations are few. Many people are depressed, obese, and in need of the gospel.
You're probably thinking, Josh, didn't you just get back from the Philippines? And the answer to that is yeah, but a lot can happen in the Philippines. While I was there, I was invited to work in Palau by Dr. Omar and Samantha Oliveira. When I heard that I had the opportunity to practice PT work and dental work, I personally couldn't say no.
I found it quite admirable that both Dr. Omar and Sam dedicated a whole year of their lives to missions. Dr. Omar is a dentist and Sam is a nurse practitioner. They could easily be making money and living a comfortable life wherever they want to live, but here they are dedicating a year in Palau. They call it their Sabbatical year of missions. Imagine how many more people would be served overseas if people were willing to dedicate just one year of their lives to missions. I mean, the mormons dedicate two; what are we dedicating?
I've heard that promise many times, "God, get me through school and I'll dedicate some time to missions." Or maybe "God, make me a millionaire, then I'll serve you with my money." If you've ever made that promise I want to say two things to you:
1) There may be need of you in the mission field today!
Some professionals may be called to serve overseas at the most remote places once they finish their education, but some may be needed even today. For example, this island has a population of about twenty thousand people, and according to one of the church members, there are only two PT's on these islands. It also turns out that only one of them has a degree. 10,000:1 ratio......... not bad. But you get the point. There's a big need in these islands, and someone has to fill it. I may not know how long I'll be here, but I know God will use me here.
2) If you promised God to serve him after school, then stick with it!
I've heard it time after time, "Once I finish school, I'm going overseas to serve." But honestly speaking, chances are you don't have any experience and don't understand how everything works just yet (just like me), or you may be paying your school bills for the next five years of your life. So it's rather difficult to serve right out of school. So maybe settle down for a little while, get a feel of the ropes, and then stay true to your word. If you've told God you'll serve overseas, then stick with it! This was some advice coming from Dr. Omar and Sam. It seemed that the thing that can hold you back is really the success you may be experiencing in your occupation, but it's up to you to commit to the promise you made.
I know it has been a minute since I posted on this devotional blog. Reason being is that the internet on this island is pretty weak. I'll try to keep you posted and I hope you answer the call to serve the Lord wherever He may lead you. #blessup
