Hannah Brown - From Panic to Peace

I sat in the pew on New Year's Eve, not really knowing what to write down as a prayer for the year. So I scribbled down a few things about being faithful to God, to be courageous and step out, knowing He had my back. I wanted to learn to trust Him more. As I walked out of the church that night I kept in mind that God would not give me trust and faith and courage wrapped up in a nice box with a bow on top. No, I knew that He would give me opportunities.

What those opportunities would be, well, that is a whole other piece to the picture. In February Scott approached me and casually asked if I was going to New Orleans with them. I was panic stricken even considering being part of the team. I told him I would think about it. After a few days I decided I would, at least, help them raise money, get ready to go, etc. Well, that wasn't enough; it just didn't feel right to compromise. I was either going to do all or none. I was absolutely terrified. After handing in my application to Scott, I passed Keith Moore's office door. Out of the blue I remembered that the prayer I wrote in January was somewhere in that office.

Then, just for a moment, I struggled to even recall what I wrote. In the most amazing few seconds I pulled all the parts together. New Orleans was part of the answer to my New Year's Eve prayer. The awful knot in my stomach disappeared, replaced with an easy peace and a few butterflies.

Now, as the trip draws nearer, that calm has lasted and helps me to forget the scary things that make me nervous so I can enjoy the amazing ride I am on. God answers prayers; I am learning to trust.

- Hannah Brown, grade 9