The golden calf

IT'S OFFICIAL. I have survived my first week here in Ecuador, and can I just say.... it has been crazy! Weddings, baby dedications, a full week of VBS, painting a daycare, and standing in the middle of a cloud (which is the coolest part). It has been so nice getting back into the swing of things and seeing the  Chacauco staff that I love oh so much! It has been so busy with a loaded schedule, and about to get even crazier as we embark on a three day camp tonight and going to the jungle next week! But even more importantly, Gardendale is coming in just a few minutes and I am so excited to see my daddy and my friends! This week has been filled with excitement, love, and challenges. I've been struggling with the concept of love. I have been reading in 1 Peter lately for my quiet time, and have found the expression "deeply love" very constant. I was thinking and praying, "Lord I am here with the people I love so much, doing what I love so much, what are you trying to teach me?". Then it hit me like a brick wall. Do I love these people and this country more than I love the Lord? Anything.. let me repeat. Anything and everything that comes between my relationship with the Lord is an idol. I totally experienced a V8 moment. If you hear the name Morgan Ramsey, many people think the girl that goes to Ecuador all the time. And that's cool and everything, but that's not what I want to be known for. I want to be known as the girl that passionately loves Jesus, and wants to serve her Lord wherever He calls, Ecuador or not.
        The Lord has speaking to me and saying is Ecuador your golden calf? Is it my idol that I love more than the Lord? I sure hope the answer is no, but it is something I am chewing on. I want to the love the Lord with my whole being, not just because He has called me to serve this summer in Ecuador, not just because he has called me to the mission field, but because He first loved me, because He gave His life for the wacked up messed up me. Because He is my redeemer, Savior, lover of my soul, healer,  my counselor, my King, my Lord, my Alpha and Omega. Do I/we deserve this? ABSOLUTELY NOT. We will never deserve his grace and love. Who are we to give anything less to the Lord of all creation.
       So pray for me as I come to grasp this concept. I pray the Lord transforms my heart this summer in a new way. Not for more love of Ecuador or its people, but more of Him. Thank you for praying for me through this journey! I love you all and thank you for reading along!

Morgan Ramsey
Isaiah 6:8