“Not all those who wander are lost.”
In The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien, Bilbo Baggins writes the above quote in a poem about Aragorn. That season of Aragorn’s life was not fruitless. It shaped him, building character and courage. The wilderness—the wandering—forged a strong, humble, and gracious king. Aragorn was not lost; he was on a journey of discovery, healing, and calling. The reason I share this is because I see my own journey in the same light. As I set out on another adventure, I don’t see it as merely another move born out of restlessness, but as a step of faith in following the Lord’s leading. I am wandering, but I am not lost.
In less than three weeks, I will be “wandering” across the pond once more to a beautiful little village nestled at the foot of the Yorkshire Dales called Giggleswick. The Lord has a sense of humor… For years, my mom, my stepdad, and I have all been trying to figure out where God wanted us. We’ve all struggled with not feeling settled, not feeling truly at home, or not knowing where God was sending us. Not only did He send us all to a place with “giggle” in the name, but Giggleswick is a village near Settle. Mom and Mike have literally settled in Settle. Although I have not “settled” there yet, I feel such peace in my going, which gives me the confidence and assurance that this has been God’s plan all along. The icing on the cake is that my aunt and grandma have also moved to the area!
This time is so much different from the last. There is a fire in the air. An anticipation hovers over my heart for what God has in store for me and the people I will be serving. This is a God-ordained mission to usher in a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit to an area that has been dry for too long. The testimonies of the goodness and faithfulness of God have already begun, and I haven’t even put boots to the ground yet!
I will share more details about the work I will be doing in the next few months. The plan is to begin working with a local church as a missionary to the community, but that will take a few months to be finalized. I will be volunteering for the first few months, getting acquainted with the community and settling into my new home. If you feel led to give, I will be needing financial support for at least the next four months. This job with the church will be paid, so once that begins, I will not need financial support. During the transition, however, I will need to cover housing costs and living expenses.
I believe this is God’s will, and I know He will supply all my needs. I have no doubt that He will. I have been so encouraged by the swiftness of His faithfulness in this season, and I have complete faith that He will work it all out. I will be sharing more soon, but for now, if you have questions, please feel free to contact me. I am so grateful for all of my family and friends, those who have supported me all my life, and those who have stood next to me for short seasons as well. I am so blessed by the fellowship of believers God has set around me, and I can’t wait to share more of this journey with all of you!
Ways to give:
Zelle: 951-704-3518
Venmo: @carliesmckinley
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