An Enriching Experience in Lens!

My name is Rachel. I am 19 years old. I had planned to volunteer in Chad starting in September, but God had something else in store. How happy I was when the person in charge of the community café in Lens wrote to me saying that I could come and volunteer for three months.

The minute I opened the door to my new apartment, I immediately felt at ease. I kept busy during the month of October with the service in the café, the time spent in the church, and especially the hilarious nights with my roommates, Maike and Marlene.

But then, on October 28^th, President Macron announced another lockdown. The thing that stood out to me the most was that the following day would be my last time working in the café. What would I do for all of November? My initial reaction was to just head back to Germany. Having to spend all day in the house without anything to do… that sounded like a nightmare!

But in the midst of all this, God had another plan for me. That night, as I was in my room alone with God, I understood that I needed to stay in Lens as planned. He reminded me of something I had said I wanted to do four years prior: to head off somewhere on my own after high school and spend alone time with God. That night he told me: “That time is now. Away from your friends, your family, your church, all distractions.” So that’s what I did. I had been asking myself a lot of important questions about my faith and the Bible, and now I had the chance to try and find some answers.

I am so grateful for the month of November! I was able to get to know my Lord Jesus and myself better. When I realized how small I was, he showed me his grace!

I am also extremely encouraged by the perseverance of the church and all they do to bless the people of Lens. I am grateful to have had a glimpse into their lives as missionaries.

I would like to thank my co-workers at the café and the church for this opportunity to spend these few months in France. It has truly been a pleasure! My stay has enriched me in many ways! I will continue to pray for them and for the city.

Rachel R.