Jamaica Debriefing
Angela Oesterle
In January 2003, Angela began six months of short-term missionary
service at Jamaica Bible College. She is from the Eden UB church
in Mason, Mich. Angela talks about her experience.
What led you to Jamaica?
I had been to Jamaica twice before with my church. After the
second trip, I knew God was speaking to me to take that next step
and look into how I could further serve in Jamaica.
A letter to Global Ministries led to a meeting with Gary Dilley.
We discussed the available options and agreed to pray about the
issue. I had already shown interest in Jamaica Bible College, and
communication quickly began with Rev. Owen Gordon, the Principal.
There were emails, phone calls, and letters between July and December
2002. In October, I met with Gary Dilley and Donna Hollopeter,
and we further discussed my responsibilities, travel plans, and
finances. All of the doors opened for me to go to Jamaica.
What did you do there?
My main responsibility was in the college library, which is replacing
the card catalog with a computer system. I processed and cataloged
donated books to get them on the shelves for students. I worked
in the library each day from 8:30 to 4:00. I was also a substitute
teacher for some classes, helped with many campus activities, and
filled in for the front office at times.
What did you learn?
More than anything else, I learned that God is faithful, that
he will provide any need I have. I was also made aware on many
occasions that not everything is about me. We may be asked to do
things that seem insignificant, but with eternity in mind, all
things that we do for the Kingdom, big or small, are worthwhile.
I try to not take so many things for granted anymore. I try to
enjoy all the blessings I do have and take time to appreciate the
simple things in life (like an ice cold Coca-Cola!).
Highlights?
The worship times during chapel and church services made a great
impact on me. But the greatest gift I received is the friendship
of so many people I met. Although I was there only six months,
I made friendships that will last a lifetime. This is what made
my time there so special--the people. Advice?
If you are considering becoming a short-term missionary, my advice
is to pray about it and take that first step. Only you can know
if God is speaking to your heart. If he is, there is no use trying
to get around it. It may be the scariest thing you ever do and
it may not make sense to those around you, but you will get the
greatest thrill when you realize you are doing just what God had
in mind.
It's not easy to be alone in a foreign land, but the blessings
you reap make up for any sacrifices you make. Unless you're willing
to attempt big things for God, you will never know how big your
God can be.
What's Next?
I am anxious to return to Jamaica. I may take some training in
library science in the coming months. In that case, I will continue
in the library work when I return to Jamaica Bible College. Right
now, I am trying to be patient and trust God's timing. I know he
has a plan for me and that this will become clear to me as I wait
on Him.
Posted November 26, 2003
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