I first understood that sex trafficking existed, I was in my late 20’s. That knowledge planted the seeds of aching and groaning of “What do I do, Lord?” I had to do something.
Around the age of 20 , I had responded to the love of God in Christ. Knowing both God’s great love for people AND the idea that sex trafficking was actually happening caused great conflictedness in my soul.
I couldn’t reconcile that a loving God would let this evil act keep happening over and over and over – to vulnerable innocent children or women.
I also knew without a doubt that God is GOOD. He is clear about His goodness and man’s sin. We are more sinful than we could ever imagine and more loved than we could ever dare hope. This is the shortened version of my agonizing over this “apparent discrepancy” in God’s character – there is no discrepancy in His character. Not one ounce.
Ephesians 6:10-20 is a key verse for help, hope and practical application of the shape of what this form of evil takes and the more powerful love of Christ to bring hope, redemption and restoration to those marred by the evil of sex trafficking. I had to do something.
One of the first books I read that brought the horrors of sexual abuse of children to light vividly was “Amy Carmichael: Let the Little Children Come to Me” by Lois Hoadly Dick. I don’t even know or remember where I picked up this book. As I read this little book ,
I was full of tears as I learned of the painful truths and the beautiful gospel being lived out through Amy in India- I had to do something.
I had discovered W.A.R. – Women At Risk and had done a couple of concerts to raise funds for the organization. (I’m a musician and vocalist) That was a good thing, though through the years I’ve yearned to do more than send a check and sing songs of hope. (Though sending a check and singing songs of hope are a very necessary part of supporting ministries like this!)
As a single parent of 3 young kids, my energies went to my own children for just over 10 years with little to no involvement in trafficking ministries of any sort.
Fast forward 10ish years – After retiring from full time teaching in December of 2021, I had been asking the Lord how, when and where I can do something. A – hands on- in partnering with a Christ Centered ministry to sex trafficked women?
I had been receiving emails from RRC, opened up one, went to the site and felt “strongly led” to inquire about employment. I knew if they weren’t hiring, I’d be volunteering. I came to the RRC office, talked with Krista for over an hour. I found out that their 2nd meeting on advocacy was that same night. I asked if I could come and she said “Yes.”
About 2 months later, Krista had let me know that the RRC board had been in discussions about hiring a Volunteer Coordinator. I just knew I should be that person 😉 though I wasn’t going to karate chop my way into that role;). I surrendered to God’s timing and His will.
After about a week, I was hired!
Knowing Krista’s heart, her vision, and ultimate desire is to bring the gospel of Jesus Christ into the lives of any woman that RRC encounters as well as meet practical needs. AND soon have a Restorative Care home to help the women become all God has intended, was enough for me to know RRC is the place I want to be serving.
I feel my heart has enlarged with joy as I’ve started this role partnering with RRC, and the many others I’m getting to know that show up at Redeem and Restore in response to the call to do something. I have joined the team as a volunteer and now also as an employee!
*Holly Dykstra, RRC Volunteer Coordinator & Advocate Team
YOU can be part of the team too- Volunteer Today!!
