One of the most rewarding experiences was having the day camps with the kids. They can be so full of energy. By the end of the week, it was hard for me to leave each village and realize that the seed was planted, but I couldn’t watch it grow.

God really worked in my life when we visited the village of Shageluk. The Lord gave me an intense burden for the people while I was there. Before I came, my burden was more general and focused on lost people; but God started working in my heart. He called me to deeper prayer specifically for the people of Alaska and of this village.

One girl that really touched my heart was from the village of Holy Cross. She has a great spirit, was not afraid to be herself, and her personality stood out from the rest. All week long I anticipated sharing the invitation to believe in Christ. When Thursday came and I explained to her about sin and what Jesus did for us on the cross, before I even asked her if she believed, she blurted out cheerfully, “I believe in Jesus.” My heart just sang!

That was a life-changing experience for both of us!

During my time in Alaska, I never thought that God would call me to further ministry. I went to Alaska with a lot of questions and I felt like I was running away from Him sometimes. But one night I couldn’t sleep. I felt Him calling me to surrender to full-time ministry. I wept as I presented God with excuses, just like Moses. But I remember Paul saying, “I consider it all rubbish, that I may gain Christ.” Philippians 3:8.

My questions aren’t all answered, but I trust Him to lead me in the future.

Daisy Contreras grew up in Texas and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor’s in Biology.