Grateful Living
God Is Always Working: A Journey of Faith and Discovery
In this edition of Grateful Living, we share a story of rediscovered faith and renewed purpose. What began as a quiet struggle turned into a beautiful testimony of God’s perfect timing and transforming grace. Through a Mission Discovery Trip to Ukarumpa, Papua New Guinea, Jennifer Howell found that when we step out in faith, God meets us in ways we could never imagine.
Jennifer’s Story - “The Highlands of Papua New Guinea — where faith, community, and God’s beauty shine through every mountain and every heart.”
God Is Always Working
Sometimes in life, an opportunity arises that seems too good to be true — a coincidence, perhaps. But in God’s timing, there are no coincidences.
For months, I had been struggling with my faith. I felt distant from God, uncertain about my commitment and authenticity as a believer. My prayers became simple and desperate: “Lord, help me find my way back to You.” I longed to be immersed in a Christian community — a place of prayer, devotion, and renewal.
An Unexpected Invitation
One Sunday in April, I noticed a flyer at church for a Mission Discovery Trip to Ukarumpa, PNG, led by Helen Sahl. I’d seen a similar flyer years earlier and dismissed it, feeling unworthy and unsure I belonged with “strong Christians.”
But this flyer kept reappearing at home, as if refusing to be ignored. Still, doubt lingered: You have nothing to offer.
When I heard only three spots were left, I initially thought it wasn’t for me. During Missions Month, I joined a conversation in the church kitchen about the trip, and people were excited about it and urged me to go. They also encouraged me to meet Helen Sahl (Wycliffe Australia) the following morning since she was in town.
That simple conversation became the nudge I needed to step out in faith and trust that God knew exactly what He was doing.
Stepping into the Unknown
With both anticipation and anxiety, I joined the team, not knowing what God had planned. I prayed that He would open my heart — to listen, to learn, and to grow spiritually. I longed for the courage to step into the unknown, trusting that He would guide every step.
From day one, I was immersed among like-minded brothers and sisters in Christ. Daily devotionals, reflections, and shared prayer fostered spiritual renewal. I led my first devotional, which deepened my awe of God’s work and His use for me, despite feelings of inadequacy.
Mission Encounters and Cultural Discovery
Throughout the trip, we connected with many mission families—sharing meals, stories, and reflections late into the night. These conversations offered insights into the joys and challenges of mission life and the perseverance of those serving in remote areas.
Cultural encounters also taught me unexpected lessons. Seeing God’s work alive in diverse communities—through joyful worship, warm hospitality, and simple daily routines—stirred something deep within me. People who had so little, by our standards, lived with overflowing joy and gratitude. Their faith shone through every part of their lives.
Local communities in the Highlands greeted visitors warmly, opening their homes and hearts with humility and grace. Their resilience, generosity, and steadfast faith reflected the heart of Christ Himself.
A Servant Heart
Each day deepened my understanding of mission impact and the universal reach of God’s love. I began to see that God’s work is carried out through those with a servant heart — people willing to listen, serve, and love in faith. This experience reshaped my spiritual journey. It taught me gratitude, humility, and a renewed commitment to follow wherever God leads. What began as uncertainty became a pilgrimage of purpose, clarity, and connection.
Ever Grateful
I will never forget this opportunity — or the people God placed along my path. My time in Ukarumpa was more than just a trip; it was a turning point. I returned home with a stronger faith, a deeper love for God’s mission, and a desire to inspire others to see how even small acts of giving can create a life-changing impact. God is always at work — sometimes quietly, sometimes through a persistent flyer on the table — guiding us towards the places and people who will help us grow. For me, Ukarumpa was where God met me once again. And I am forever grateful.
Jennifer Howell
God Is Always Working
Sometimes in life, an opportunity arises that seems too good to be true — a coincidence, perhaps. But in God’s timing, there are no coincidences.
For months, I had been struggling with my faith. I felt distant from God, uncertain about my commitment and authenticity as a believer. My prayers became simple and desperate: “Lord, help me find my way back to You.” I longed to be immersed in a Christian community — a place of prayer, devotion, and renewal.
An Unexpected Invitation
One Sunday in April, I noticed a flyer at church for a Mission Discovery Trip to Ukarumpa, PNG, led by Helen Sahl. I’d seen a similar flyer years earlier and dismissed it, feeling unworthy and unsure I belonged with “strong Christians.”
But this flyer kept reappearing at home, as if refusing to be ignored. Still, doubt lingered: You have nothing to offer.
When I heard only three spots were left, I initially thought it wasn’t for me. During Missions Month, I joined a conversation in the church kitchen about the trip, and people were excited about it and urged me to go. They also encouraged me to meet Helen Sahl (Wycliffe Australia) the following morning since she was in town.
That simple conversation became the nudge I needed to step out in faith and trust that God knew exactly what He was doing.
Stepping into the Unknown
With both anticipation and anxiety, I joined the team, not knowing what God had planned. I prayed that He would open my heart — to listen, to learn, and to grow spiritually. I longed for the courage to step into the unknown, trusting that He would guide every step.
From day one, I was immersed among like-minded brothers and sisters in Christ. Daily devotionals, reflections, and shared prayer fostered spiritual renewal. I led my first devotional, which deepened my awe of God’s work and His use for me, despite feelings of inadequacy.
Mission Encounters and Cultural Discovery
Throughout the trip, we connected with many mission families—sharing meals, stories, and reflections late into the night. These conversations offered insights into the joys and challenges of mission life and the perseverance of those serving in remote areas.
Cultural encounters also taught me unexpected lessons. Seeing God’s work alive in diverse communities—through joyful worship, warm hospitality, and simple daily routines—stirred something deep within me. People who had so little, by our standards, lived with overflowing joy and gratitude. Their faith shone through every part of their lives.
Local communities in the Highlands greeted visitors warmly, opening their homes and hearts with humility and grace. Their resilience, generosity, and steadfast faith reflected the heart of Christ Himself.
A Servant Heart
Each day deepened my understanding of mission impact and the universal reach of God’s love. I began to see that God’s work is carried out through those with a servant heart — people willing to listen, serve, and love in faith. This experience reshaped my spiritual journey. It taught me gratitude, humility, and a renewed commitment to follow wherever God leads. What began as uncertainty became a pilgrimage of purpose, clarity, and connection.
Ever Grateful
I will never forget this opportunity — or the people God placed along my path. My time in Ukarumpa was more than just a trip; it was a turning point. I returned home with a stronger faith, a deeper love for God’s mission, and a desire to inspire others to see how even small acts of giving can create a life-changing impact. God is always at work — sometimes quietly, sometimes through a persistent flyer on the table — guiding us towards the places and people who will help us grow. For me, Ukarumpa was where God met me once again. And I am forever grateful.
Jennifer Howell
Posted in Grateful Living