The CMF International Track is an 18 month course designed to help people explore their role in healthcare international mission. As a midwife, I have always been excited at the thought of my skills being transferable on an international level. Not just because it would allow me to experience different cultures, but because it opens opportunities to share my saviour with people who have never heard the good news.
The International Track began back in May when a group of like-minded, mission-motivated people were brought together to start the International Track journey. We were also each introduced to our mentor; a person with international mission experience who is dedicated to pray for us and challenge us throughout the course.
One of the topics we reflected on was the theology of mission. It was great to be reminded that 'mission' (ie the whole church taking the whole gospel to the whole world) was never a human idea, but has been God's intention from the very beginning! And he who is passionate for the glory of his name has promised to make it known in 'Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth' (Acts 1:8).
It is incredible to think that God will be faithful to this promise and achieve his plan, with or without our help. And it is humbling to know that he chooses us as his instruments despite our weaknesses and failures. First and foremost, the International Track has reminded me to rely on God and his strength, not my own. It is his work, his plan, and his power.
We have had teaching in London at All Nations College and via webinars, with reflection questions that follow each session. Each time, we are encouraged to examine our hearts and minds for our motivation for mission as well as opening our ears to hear the Lord speak. For some of us, there is a specific country or people group that we are passionate about reaching. For others, including myself, we are simply struck by the amount of injustice in the world and are desperate for God to use us to make himself known. I have found myself being quite impatient at times, wondering why I can't just book a flight and jet off. But God has not only taught me patience, but how to trust him in the present.
I currently work in an environment where the majority of my colleagues still need to hear the good news of Jesus. While I don't know where God plans to lead me, I do know that he is sovereign and that he has placed me now where he can use me now. I endeavour to make the most of opportunities in the present. Let me encourage you to do the same as you also are a part of God's mission, wherever you are!
Claire Nicholson is a recently qualified midwife in Leeds.
