Vision Trip: The Real Reason

Nate and I believe that God has called us to serve in Austria. We have spent the last few years pursuing ministry there, applying to WorldVenture, learning about the country and the spiritual darkness that hangs over it, connecting with missionaries, praying for its people, training, preparing and sharing our story.

But…we haven’t been to Austria together.

Our two week trip to Austria (in 9 days!) will be a good time to connect with our team members, build relationships and cast a vision for our ministry. But I think deep down, what it’s really all about is experiencing a culture in need and beginning to understand what that culture is all about.

It’s about asking questions and becoming learners…

What are their core cultural values, traditions and worldview?

What is the best way to connect the hearts of Austrians to the gospel?

What has led Austria so far from God?

What are some of the biggest challenges in ministering to Austrians?

What have the missionaries learned over the last few decades of ministry? What have they done well and what would they go back and change?

We have so many questions. I could go on and on. The moral of the story? We have so much to learn and so much for God to teach us. Our two-week visit is just the beginning of this amazing journey God is leading us on. God’s heart is for Austria and to see the gospel explode there. But right now, it is a dark place in great need. We need to experience that.

Walking the streets, visiting churches, and spending time with the Austrian people will allow us to immerse ourselves in the culture and begin to learn. It may uncover even more questions…but isn’t that what learning is really all about?