THE CALL

We’re moving to Ecuador!

by Nancy Rodriguez

For Freedom and I, the idea of doing missions work has always been a part of our Christian walk. Even before we were married, we have known that we were to be in missions, on mission, and have a ministry to fulfill. To add to that, God has frequently led us to some of the dearest people, who have had some experience in another country in the mission field, usually as missionary kids who are now adults. 

For some time, we thought it would be Africa, later Spain. Life had many twists and turns and the missional calling seemed to be put on hold. Of course, the world is our mission field right where we are and we are to be a light to those around us, even in our own homes. But we just knew that God had a cross-cultural, overseas calling for us. 

Isn’t it funny when God shows you your calling in an instant, but then it takes practically a lifetime for you to fulfill it? I guess it’s not that weird when you realize that it happened to Moses, Joseph, and even Jesus. 

Considering that, I guess it seems perfectly fine that this journey has taken us about twenty years. I know that we will always feel the calling onward until we reach our eternal rest, but as you’ve probably heard from other missionaries, you just know when it’s happening now.

We are moving our family to Ecuador! There is anticipation, preparedness, and just a great deal of faith that wasn’t there before. There is energy in our steps, direction, and a steadfast focus. God has prepared a place for us once we get there, lovely people to rent our home in Georgia, and we have a community of church leaders and missionaries ready to welcome us. This is really happening!

WHAT'S NEXT:

I think of the fish from Finding Nemo who were so determined to get to the sea, and then asking, “now what?” once they arrived. While that makes me chuckle, I know that culture shock is real and it’s very disorienting to be in a completely new cultural environment. This isn’t for the faint of heart, not the best career plan, and yet… And yet there is a new faith to walk in, a new place to usher in His kingdom, a new community of people to embrace.

It’s undeniable. For many years I longed for God to tell me specifically where and when otherwise I would not move. It’s different now. I’ve learned that you make a move and then you know. You just know. 

One day during Sunday service it felt like God supernaturally made time slow down. I knew the song but had never noticed this phrase:

“If the wind goes where You send it, so will I”

It tore me up, and I knew. I knew why my husband was laboring in prayer for so many years. He even said many times, “take this calling away,” not because he was unwilling, but because the calling was so strong, and yet so far away. So far away, so many years ago, and yet the time is now and it is at hand.

HOW YOU CAN HELP:

Please consider committing us to your prayers and donating. No amount is too small but we do prefer monthly commitments. We need to be surrounded by a loving cloud of witnesses. If you already support us in any way or have in the past, thank you! You give us courage and hope in what's to come. With God’s help and support from our community, we are hoping to leave in September.