I gazed upon the precious letter from my best friend. She wrote me a letter for each month of the Race, and they are one of my most prized possessions I carry in my backpack. As I carefully tore open the envelope, I had an inkling this letter would change my outlook for my ministry in Swaziland.
“My prayer for you this month is that you accept any feelings of homesickness and then give them back to Jesus. He has you here for a reason! Even if it’s just to love on your team.”
Truth be told, I am a homebody; my best friend knows that. I really love being with my family and soaking up the warmth and joy exuded from one another. Going into the Race, I prepared myself for the reality that I wouldn’t see my family for eleven months. So when I read the letter, I chuckled at the thought of getting homesick in month two, because I still have nine months to go! I might get homesick in month five or six, but two?
The reality of it is, I’m not homesick. I do miss my family and friends, but I know I’m supposed to be here. Unfortunately, the enemy has done everything he can to conjure up circumstances of trying to make me want to go home.
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El Shaddai is absolutely breath-taking. The orphanage, or its more fitting name of a children’s home, literally sits on top of a mountain in Swaziland, and my squad and I have had the privilege of looking out for miles at God’s creation. Hues of blues, greens, purples, and browns dot the landscape below and at night when the clouds clear away, thousands of celestial bodies shimmer against the black canopy. I feel Abba’s presence the most through nature, and observing His glorious work always brings a girlish smile to my face; it’s like I’m beholding my First Love for the first time.
My excitement grows with each passing day as time draws near to arrive in India for our next month of ministry! When I signed up for the Race and saw India on a route, the LORD put a burden on my heart for this unique country. It’s mysteriousness might be what grabs my attention, and I want to give my everything to the people there. Alas, I can’t help but think about the unpleasant stigma that Indian food carries…what goes in must come out, and comes out painfully. I know the LORD can strengthen my stomach for the exotic foods I will try, and He will be there with me if I do experience bouts of sickness.
I have gotten physically sick three times since my Race began, and being away from all the people and things I find comfort in makes me dwell upon home. But the LORD has been there to comfort me in my times of sickness; in my instances of humility; in my moments of brokenness. I know He will be with me every step of the way in India. His presence alone is how I will combat sickness in every form. And His companionship will be how I bring His radiant light to broken people; broken people just like me.
