Where am I going?

Jamaica. Mustard Seed Communities. Where am I going?

If five years ago, even two years ago someone told me I would be going to Jamaica I would have jumped for joy! Going to a warm climate for a trip sounds like fun to me. This is my idea of vacation. For me when I think of Jamaica, I think of paradise. Lush, flowering plants with intoxicating aromas. So many shades of green that the eyes are overwhelmed by the intensity. There is an island native music that makes ones hips sway to a beat and beckon for one more dance in the warm air. I can imagine a happy couple embracing each other as the sun sets on the horizon. Maybe they even lock in a passionate kiss. Jamaica. Paradise.

If someone had told me I would be going to Jamaica for a service immersion trip to work with children at Mustard Seed Communities I would have laughed at them. If Jamaica is paradise, what will a service immersion trip be? How can it be Paradise? This couldn’t be further from the truth. Well, actually there are parallel truths. My trip to Jamaica will include seeing the vibrant colors, the plants and flowers. Except instead of being intoxicated by the aromas and smells I will be admiring them out of a spirit of thankfulness for God’s creation. The music I hear will inspire a rhythm and beat. Yet rather than dance the night away we will be dancing for the Lord of the dance. Will there be happiness and love? Yes, there will be love. Love for my neighbor. Love for the children. Yes, I think Jamaica will be filled with warm embraces as I laugh, live, and get to know my fellow Christian brothers and sisters at Mustard Seed Communities. The national motto of Jamaica is “Out of Many, One People”. The many different experiences, moments, facets, and people are Jamaica. They make this great island a paradise. Yes, indeed I am going to Jamaica.

- Michelle Kelley