3 Weeks Mission and 1 Week Work: The Lord Provides

One of the best things I looked forward to after finishing college and getting a job was being able to support myself and my family. Thankfully, I was able to fulfill that goal when I started working in 2011.

However, one of the most life-changing realizations I had as a missionary was that—even without having much personal money—I still felt satisfied, joyful, and fulfilled at the end of each day.

Feb 2020 calendar with missions and work deadlines

In February 2020, just before the pandemic hit, I signed up for all the Pure Heart Missions scheduled that month. From February 2 to 8, we facilitated a recollection for diocesan schools in Dumaguete. Then from February 17 to 20, we led a retreat for Grade 9 students at Talamban National High School. Finally, we were set to return to Dumaguete for another round of recollections from February 23 to 27.

I overestimated myself. I had already survived a two-week mission while juggling work, so I thought, “Why not make it three?” Crazy, I know. The Dumaguete mission involved a lot of travel, and I couldn’t find the time to work. I ended up asking my clients to pause my tasks. I tried to finish all pending projects in one week so I could fully focus on the missions. After that, I simply entrusted everything to God, knowing that my salary wouldn’t be enough to cover anything beyond my basic bills.

God Provides for His Mission

As it turned out, I was well provided for throughout those mission days. We had food and accommodation, thanks to the generosity of the families, schools, and communities we served. We even had the chance to enjoy a side trip to Siquijor. But most importantly, I witnessed the lives and stories of countless students from different backgrounds. As they opened up to us, I reflected on how much we actually share in common. Some of them carried the same burdens I did, while others had been through deeply traumatic experiences.

In the end, I realized that God’s provision goes far beyond money or material needs. Through the experience of traveling and sharing the Good News, God gave me what I needed to grow spiritually and emotionally. Yes, we all need air, food, shelter, and money to survive. But virtues, relationships, and a sense of purpose—these are God’s greatest provisions that help me live a happy and meaningful life.