I was walking with Steph last week, just reflecting on our time in Asia these past few months. I asked her, “If you could describe each month in one word, what would your words be?” She answered so meaningfully, and then- of course -turned the question back on me, as is only fair.
Cambodia was easy: sweet.
I’ve never experienced a joy and love like my time in Cambodia. After a season of literal and metaphorical winter at home, it was so special to experience a season of abundant flowers and growth. I was constantly surrounded by giggles, squeals, hugs, kisses, and a million reminders that God is good. I fell in love with God again, and learned what a life of following Him looks and feels like. It’s hard, but it’s abundant and sweet.
Thailand, month one: reset.
We quickly realized that though we had some hard times in our first month, Cambodia was a breeze. Thailand brought challenges from the very beginning, but while we failed many times both individually and as a team, we chose to dig in deeper to work through the struggles and hardship. I had to constantly realign my heart and mind to point towards Christ, and along the way I learned areas and habits in my life that I needed to “reset” to do so.
Thailand, month two: rejoice.
This last month has been so good to me. A reoccurring theme on my trip has been “God is good through it all”. Through the ups and the downs, the mountains and the valleys His love and goodness are consistent. So month three was a season of rejoicing in the Lord in everything He does. Even as I sit here typing this in Atlanta, preparing to leave my team in a few hours to go home, I’m thankful for the pain and grief I’m feeling because that means the love and joy was real. It hurts to say goodbye because it has been unbelievably good and tender, so I’m counting my sadness right now a blessing. God is good.
Yes, I am coming home today! I never actually thought this day would come, but after a few long days of travel and debriefing, I am hopping on a flight to RI this morning. I still can’t express how grateful I am to every single person who was supported me on this journey. Every prayer sent, dollar donated, and encouraging text is appreciated and is what got me here. God has truly shown me his love and faithfulness through the community He has built for me back home. I can’t wait to see everyone and tell about the amazing things God has done in my life, and also hear about what He‘s doing in yours.
So I’ll wrap up my final blog with thank you.
