Brace yourselves, the romantic holiday events are coming. Engagements, hand holding in the snow, holiday parties… It’s enough to make a 30 year old single dude on ministry pay downhearted.
Well I hope to change your perspective in this 5 minute read on how I’ve been able to go from “single and tryin’ to mingle” to “single and satisfied”
It came to me as I was traveling down the Amazon river the day before Thanksgiving in a wooden canoe. I had just spent three hours fishing, hiking through the rain forest and chatting about Christ at a lake with a group of young Brazilians. It took me almost a decade to realize what I had. Now that I see it, I’m able to embrace three key qualities about myself. I’m available. I’m willing. I’m equipped.
When I had an opportunity to spend two weeks in Malawi 10 years ago, I took it. I was willing. On the trip I learned about international travel, sharing my faith and the third world.
Later, when my church offered a class on evangelism, I took it. I was available. In the class I learned how to share my faith boldly yet tactfully and some creative ways to engage with my community.
I took the opportunities in front of me to take trips to Zambia, Ethiopia, Haiti, Italy, and Brazil. My job sends me out to Colorado and Oklahoma monthly. With each trip I was becoming more equipped. Having more conversations about Christ and encouraging people around the world to daily take up my cross and follow Him.
I’m Single. I’m reminded every Christmas, tax season and birthday. My Instagram (@speakingquitefrankly) looks different than many of my friends. Instead of cute dates and photos of babies I post stores of life change and photos of remote places in the world. My calling has been one of a traveling missionary- Working full time, yet using PTO and holidays to spread Gods love wherever I go. I am available, willing and equipped and God has used this to take me to places many relationship-bound people only dream of.
How do you unwrap your gift of singleness? Realize your freedom. Then dream big- knowing God is able to do more than you can ask or imagine. Volunteer locally, look internationally, submit to Jesus daily and you two may find yourself watching the rain forest birds fly overhead as your canoe in guided to the best fishing spot in the Amazon.
Frank Colarusso is striving to daily lay down his life and follow Christ. As recovering foodie, when he isn’t taking full advantage of creation at summer camp he can be found serving the church in Dallas, Texas. Follow him on Instagram at @SPEAKINGQUITEFRANKLY.
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