Mission Field

Stockton.  It has made headlines lately hasn't it?

Forbes magazine called it the most miserable city to live in, for more than one year in a row. 

We are known for the highest number of home foreclosures, violent crimes, and unemployment.

Recently, we made National headlines for becoming the Nation's largest city to go bankrupt. 

Joy. 

Growing up, I could not WAIT to get out of this city.  I always knew I was going to go away for college.  I always knew I was going to travel abroad and raise my family elsewhere. I wanted OUT of California's armpit.

Yet, here I am.  Nearing 30 years, and I have lived hardly anywhere else. 

Yet, here I am. Nearing 30, and I cannot imagine myself living anywhere else.

Growing up I always wanted to be a missionary.

Joy.

I have made headway into the hearts of the city's youth.  Over the past 8 years I have been allowed to be a part of literally hundreds of lives in a Godly, mentor-like fashion of teaching, and leading in schools and church alike.

God has given me a special heart for Stockton. I look around, despite all it's ghetto-ness, and feel a sense of compassion for her people. 

I am called his servant. I am willing to go, or not go, anywhere he has chosen for me to be. 

Stockton, it is my home. It is my mission field.