It’s official now: in 2027, I’ll be boarding a plane to Ethiopia.
It’s a trip I’ve been thinking about for a long time—one that, from this moment on, will only draw closer. Although Ethiopia wasn’t the exact place I had in mind at first, I have wanted to go on a missionary trip to Africa for a very long time.
This certainly won’t be a vacation for rest and relaxation; rather, it will be a journey dedicated to giving—to truly being present for people in prisons and those caught up in prostitution. I want to show them the love of Jesus, not just through words, but through actions and by simply listening.
Although it’s still a while away and my suitcases are currently tucked away in the attic, the journey has long since begun in my mind and heart. And, to be honest? That stirs up quite a lot within me.
What’s on my mind right now: From Brazil to Ethiopia
At this moment, the preparation is primarily an inner journey. Although I had the privilege of making a similar trip to Brazil years ago with The One in Him Foundation (you can read more about that here: The body of Christ – Come see a Man , Stepping out in faith – Come see a Man), this remains an exciting experience. Once again, I find myself asking the same questions: What will I see? What will I experience? How will I perceive it all, and how will it change me?
I am already mentally preparing myself so that I won’t become overwhelmed by everything I am about to see and experience. Based on my previous trip to Brazil, I know that it took me months afterward to readjust to life back home in the Netherlands.
Sometimes it all feels a bit surreal, but at other times, I am overcome with gratitude: “I’m going to Ethiopia! God is actually sending me to Ethiopia!”
Fortunately, we are receiving excellent guidance at school over the coming months. There are several outreaches scheduled that will serve as a valuable ‘taste’ of what we will be doing during the mission trip.
Getting started: the practical side and seeking sponsorship for the mission trip
Naturally, the practical work is also gradually getting underway. I have begun by creating a flyer and reaching out to business owners, family, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances to invite them to sponsorship. I am also actively building a network of people who would like to follow my journey (and keep me in their prayers).
Sharing what I am planning to do can sometimes feel quite daunting and makes me feel vulnerable; however, the drive to bring hope and demonstrate the love of Jesus is far greater.
In the coming period, I will be taking many more steps in my preparations, and I am really looking forward to sharing those updates with you here.
❤️Will you join me on this journey—in your thoughts and through your support?
