Glad that you found your way to the blog. Blogging is not going to be my favorite thing to do but is a great way to update people and to process through what I am thinking and going through in life. As most of you know I am transitioning to Palestine (on FEB. 19) very shortly to work for an organization called Paidia. I am very excited for the opportunity to work abroad, experience a new culture, and hopefully see many lives come to know Christ.
As for now, I am in full preparation trying to learn a new language, enjoying hobbies while I can (cycling in 40 degree weather - yey), doing some program research, and all the fun logistics of moving to another country.
For the first post I figured I would leave you with a couple of photos of the area that I will working in along with my official support letter. Thanks for visiting.
Dear Friends and Family:
Shalom! I hope that you are doing well. The past couple of years have been a roller coaster full of great opportunities,
disappointments, challenges, and life changes. Most of you are aware that over the past couple of years I have been trying to figure out “what I want to be when I grow up” and find the “perfect” job. I have traveled the country interviewing for positions and finally came to the conclusion that “perfect” does not exist.
This past summer I was blessed to travel to the Tibetan area of China and interact with some amazing people. My life was changed dramatically as a result. First, I realized how blessed I am to have such a supportive group of family and friends. Secondly, while I was in China I felt that God would open doors someday for
long-term missions opportunity in the future. Finally, I experienced an unreached people group that has never heard the gospel of Christ.
The months after returning have been quite challenging at times. Here’s a run down of events that happened in October and November: finished my 3rd rehab on my knee, finished a half marathon at my best time yet, approached with a missions opportunity, interviewed for various jobs receiving a job offer from a VA hospital.
While on a trip to Washington D.C. to consider taking a position with a Veterans Affairs hospital, I received a phone call from the founder of the organization that approached me several months ago about serving in the Middle East. He alerted me that they needed someone to fill in at the beginning of year due to a terminal illness. I initially turned down the opportunity a long time ago due to ongoing knee problems. My mind was racing with confusion over the uncertainty and direction for my future. As I was sitting on the plane, I opened my devotional book A Guide to Prayer going through the daily reading, which happened to be Mathew 4 (Temptation of Christ) and Matthew 28 (The Great Commission). The confusion and anxiety seemed to clear quickly as I was faced with three choices: pursue the American dream and a 401k, stay content in Arkansas, or live a “radical life” following Christ.
Sometimes I think I get so caught up in trying to make the right decision. It can become frustrating processing through the tough questions: “God where do you want me to go? “ “What do you want me to do?” “God should I choose this place or this place?” Sometimes it’s not the decision that is the most important but the process it takes to make it. It has been frustrating at times because I wanted God to write, “GO” in the sky but there was never that sign or voice. I believe that sometimes God will use you anywhere you are willing and there is not always an obvious calling but it’s the process that is important. Several friends have pointed out to me recently that out all the opportunities that I have had my heart has never felt at peace with them. The process of making such a big decision has reminded me that I must completely abandon everything that I am and want to have to truly follow Christ.
At the end of February, I will be transitioning from Northwest Arkansas to live in the West Bank, Israel working for Paidia International Development. Paidia uses experiential education programming (ropes courses) to engage individuals (primarily youth) with ethical leadership development empowering them to transform themselves and their communities. The organization has many programs including a small group ministry geared to younger Palestinians, recreation therapy services for people with special needs, community service events and life skill education groups. The underlying goal is to help Palestinians develop conflict resolution, communication, problem solving, and relationship skills. This is an amazing opportunity to serve and work with Palestinians living in the West Bank using my experience in recreation therapy and ropes course facilitation. With limited time to prepare, I am asking you to consider joining my support team in prayer and financial contributions. Paul writes in Philippians regarding his support for his ministry:
“Not that I seek gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit … the gifts you sent (are) a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.” (Philippians 4:17, 18-20) It is a tough decision to step out in faith in the midst of a struggling economy asking for support. My target monthly budget is $1425 and every one time or monthly support gift greatly helps. Financial support will be managed through a church supported third party organization (Missions Enablers International) based out of Northwest Arkansas so that there is not a connection to my work with Paidia in the West Bank. All gifts are tax deductible and more information can be found with this letter on how to pursue supporting me financially.
Thank you once again for your prayer and support as I embark on this exciting and challenging journey. I would love to schedule time to meet with you about how you might play a role in ministering to Palestinians. In addition feel free to contact me regarding any questions that you might have.
For Him,
Colby Webb
Dear Friends and Family:
Shalom! I hope that you are doing well. The past couple of years have been a roller coaster full of great opportunities,
disappointments, challenges, and life changes. Most of you are aware that over the past couple of years I have been trying to figure out “what I want to be when I grow up” and find the “perfect” job. I have traveled the country interviewing for positions and finally came to the conclusion that “perfect” does not exist.
This past summer I was blessed to travel to the Tibetan area of China and interact with some amazing people. My life was changed dramatically as a result. First, I realized how blessed I am to have such a supportive group of family and friends. Secondly, while I was in China I felt that God would open doors someday for
long-term missions opportunity in the future. Finally, I experienced an unreached people group that has never heard the gospel of Christ.
The months after returning have been quite challenging at times. Here’s a run down of events that happened in October and November: finished my 3rd rehab on my knee, finished a half marathon at my best time yet, approached with a missions opportunity, interviewed for various jobs receiving a job offer from a VA hospital.
While on a trip to Washington D.C. to consider taking a position with a Veterans Affairs hospital, I received a phone call from the founder of the organization that approached me several months ago about serving in the Middle East. He alerted me that they needed someone to fill in at the beginning of year due to a terminal illness. I initially turned down the opportunity a long time ago due to ongoing knee problems. My mind was racing with confusion over the uncertainty and direction for my future. As I was sitting on the plane, I opened my devotional book A Guide to Prayer going through the daily reading, which happened to be Mathew 4 (Temptation of Christ) and Matthew 28 (The Great Commission). The confusion and anxiety seemed to clear quickly as I was faced with three choices: pursue the American dream and a 401k, stay content in Arkansas, or live a “radical life” following Christ.
Sometimes I think I get so caught up in trying to make the right decision. It can become frustrating processing through the tough questions: “God where do you want me to go? “ “What do you want me to do?” “God should I choose this place or this place?” Sometimes it’s not the decision that is the most important but the process it takes to make it. It has been frustrating at times because I wanted God to write, “GO” in the sky but there was never that sign or voice. I believe that sometimes God will use you anywhere you are willing and there is not always an obvious calling but it’s the process that is important. Several friends have pointed out to me recently that out all the opportunities that I have had my heart has never felt at peace with them. The process of making such a big decision has reminded me that I must completely abandon everything that I am and want to have to truly follow Christ.
At the end of February, I will be transitioning from Northwest Arkansas to live in the West Bank, Israel working for Paidia International Development. Paidia uses experiential education programming (ropes courses) to engage individuals (primarily youth) with ethical leadership development empowering them to transform themselves and their communities. The organization has many programs including a small group ministry geared to younger Palestinians, recreation therapy services for people with special needs, community service events and life skill education groups. The underlying goal is to help Palestinians develop conflict resolution, communication, problem solving, and relationship skills. This is an amazing opportunity to serve and work with Palestinians living in the West Bank using my experience in recreation therapy and ropes course facilitation. With limited time to prepare, I am asking you to consider joining my support team in prayer and financial contributions. Paul writes in Philippians regarding his support for his ministry:
“Not that I seek gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit … the gifts you sent (are) a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.” (Philippians 4:17, 18-20) It is a tough decision to step out in faith in the midst of a struggling economy asking for support. My target monthly budget is $1425 and every one time or monthly support gift greatly helps. Financial support will be managed through a church supported third party organization (Missions Enablers International) based out of Northwest Arkansas so that there is not a connection to my work with Paidia in the West Bank. All gifts are tax deductible and more information can be found with this letter on how to pursue supporting me financially.
Thank you once again for your prayer and support as I embark on this exciting and challenging journey. I would love to schedule time to meet with you about how you might play a role in ministering to Palestinians. In addition feel free to contact me regarding any questions that you might have.
For Him,
Colby Webb
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