My Worst Nightmare Became My Dream and Passion

By Karen Townsend

Six months ago I absolutely, positively never would have imagined that I would sit at an outdoor café in Kazakhstan, eating noodles with horse meat while teaching Salta, a brand new believer, the basics of growing in her relationship with Jesus.

"Thank you for your help to invite Jesus into my life. . .I think you do one of the best missions in the world. Humanity needs you." ~Salta

Six months ago I absolutely, positively never would have imagined that I would stand outside of an ex-Soviet apartment building saying goodbye to Vika, a student who said, "When I first met you I was so excited to have an opportunity to practice my English with a native speaker. As I got to know you the most amazing thing happened. You have helped me discover truth!"

"I think my life has changed since I met you." ~Vika

Six months ago I absolutely, positively never would have imagined that I would read an email from Timur, one of seven Kazakh students who began a relationship with Jesus this summer, telling me about his recent baptism.

"Thank you for changing my life and showing me the truth." ~Timur

Six months ago I absolutely, positively never would have imagined that I would go to the predominately Muslim nation of Kazakhstan to reach the un-reached. I've spent all of my Christian life believing that ministering overseas was a great idea and an awesome responsibility reserved for other people. NOT ME!!!! So this past summer as I boarded a plane en-route to Central Asia to lead a team of fourteen people on a six week mission trip in Kazakhstan the Lord must have been chuckling. As he chuckled he began a process of stretching, challenging, comforting and using me in ways that I never would have imagined. I saw lives change for eternity. At the end of the six weeks I was changed too. For the first time I realized that ministering overseas is a privilege, not a burden.

I have been left hungering for more, so I am thrilled that in September 2003 I have the opportunity to go back to Kazakhstan to lead a team on a year long adventure of introducing more Kazakhs to Jesus Christ. A lot has changed. Six months ago I absolutely, positively never would have imagined that spending a year in Kazakhstan would be my dream and passion. From nightmare to passion, it's funny how God changes things.