Home. I’m back. I am here in the States, for a quick turn-around before I go back into the field serving in Africa (SAAYYY WHAT??!) for a few more months. It’s both strange and completely normal. Culture shock and comfortable. Feels like it’s been forever since I left, yet almost like I never did. Processing. Processing is a word I have used more this year than ever before. Reflecting and conversing with the Lord about all aspects of this trip is a real and healthy “process” (for lack of a better word). I’m grateful that I have been able to process throughout the year, and prepare (as much as possible) for re-entry into the U.S. prior to leaving the field.
But home now. Wow. I am now surrounded by familiar faces. I hear American accents and native English speakers, and don’t whip my head around trying to figure out where they are from… because, well they are from here. I can spend time sharing a meal at the table with my family, easily run into the city to visit with friends, and seamlessly connect over the phone with my people. My large pack sits half unpacked in the corner, telling me to take a break and enjoy this period of rest. I watch as many World Cup games with my family as possible. I navigate and occasionally fumble along the unique route of sharing about my life experiences living cross-culturally and working to advance the Gospel. “How was your year?” “How was your trip?” These are huge questions to answer, BUT PLEASE do not be afraid to KEEP ASKING and continue to challenge me with more questions. I can tell you about the most adventurous experience I had, about the local who stole my heart, and the ministry I was most passionate about. The Lord has done so much! He will continue to. He is good, and His steadfast love endures forever.
It is a sweet gift to be home, but that does not mean it has been easy. Strange anxiety-like echoes from parts of my past have tried to creep in unexpectedly. Fear of the future peaks it’s head in uninvited. The noise of a million thoughts attempt to chaotically flurry around my mind. And at these moments, God’s Word speaks louder and anchors me. He has placed people around me to direct my sights back to Him. While everything else continues to fluctuate, move, shift, and change, I know my God is unchanging. He is good, trustworthy, faithful. I am indescribably thankful for His presence, nearness, and for all that He has done. I know I can boldly ask for wisdom and guidance to walk out my faith, continuing to run my race well in joyful service to Him and in fellowship with Him. And so, I fellowship and serve Him here at home as a daughter, sister, auntie, friend, JoJo— my “Month 12 ministry” so to speak. Home.
Psalm 136:1
Give thanks to the Lord for He is good. His love endures forever.
Thanking you for following me along this journey. My journey living and serving internationally is still continuing.
I will be launching again in August, team leading with X Squad, heading to South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Malawi before heading back to the States in November! The World Race is more than a mission trip. This is an opportunity to join in on the work God is already doing all over the world, and to be further stretched and developed as a disciple of Christ. If you desire to partner with me financially, you can donate directly through the “Donate!” link above. You can also donate by mail with a tax-deductible contribution to:
Adventures in Missions
P.O. Box 742570
Atlanta, GA 30374-2570
Be sure to indicate that it is for Joelle Urquhart!
