The Joy of Obedience

Hey friends and family!

I am so incredibly grateful for each of you. It’s hard to believe that I’ll be leaving for Mexico in less than a month. So much has happened since I last wrote. The Lord has graciously provided both a car and an apartment—two things we’ve been praying for together. He heard our prayers and provided abundantly, without complications. God is so good.

With everything now in place, I’m officially set to leave for Mazatlán, Mexico on January 10. Please mark your calendars and pray for safe travels that day! It still feels surreal that this is really happening.

Lately I’ve been reflecting on the fact that the Lord is the Author of our stories. He is gracious, He sees us, and He knows what is best for us. When I look back on my life and this journey, I can see His intentional hand in every detail. When I was in high school and first felt called to full-time ministry, I never imagined this is where He would lead me—but He knew, and He made a way. There were no accidents. God placed a passion for children in my heart long before I ever knew I’d be serving in Mexico. No coincidences—just His intentionality.

All of this makes me excited for what’s next. Surrender isn’t easy—far from it—but we were created to surrender to the Lord. We’re meant to trust Him, not ourselves. And while obedience can feel costly, it is actually freeing. It’s not a list of rules; it’s an invitation to walk in joy. I still have my struggles and areas I want to hold onto, but I’m learning that letting go brings the greatest joy. Total dependence on the Lord allows me to see His hand so clearly.

This new chapter in Mexico excites me because I can’t do it on my own. It stretches me, challenges me, and places me in a posture of complete dependence and obedience. And honestly—that’s a joyful place to be. I can’t wait for the new opportunities, new people, new Spanish words, and new ways to experience God. My grandpa always says that the safest place to be is in the center of God’s will, wherever that may be. And it’s true. God has me in the palm of His hand. I feel safe, free, and deeply expectant for what He will do in me, through me, and around me. My life is His.

As I wrap up my time in the States, I am overwhelmed by God’s goodness and by your goodness to me. Thank you for showing up through prayers, encouragement, and support. I’ve loved meeting with so many of you—catching up on life, sharing what God is doing in Mexico and what He did in Argentina, and hearing how He’s moving in your own lives. This past weekend, I had the chance to share at my home church, Grace Church Bath, and left feeling so encouraged and loved. Thank you for being part of my story—and prayerfully, part of so many stories yet to be written in Mexico.

As I finish this final stretch here in Ohio, my prayer is to end well—to stay deeply connected to the Lord, to be intentional with friends and family, and to stay present right where my feet are. I’m looking ahead with excitement, but I also don’t want to miss what God is doing right here.

I ask for your prayers as we enter this next phase: prayers for preparation, for the goodbyes, for the sweet memories ahead, and for peace and comfort through it all.

A special note for those who have committed to joining my financial support team: since I’m leaving in less than a month, please make sure your account is set up with CMC (Central Missionary Clearinghouse) and begin sending your gifts. Your generosity means the world to me, and your support helps me continue to say “yes” to Jesus.

What a JOY it is to follow Jesus!

Naomi Bogue