After all the anticipation, the time has finally come. I’m on the field, sitting in the kitchen of our hostel in Chiang Mai, Thailand. All this waiting and I’m left wondering… how? How did I get here? How am I feeling? How will I be used to make an influence for The Kingdom? And finally, after only a few short days of life here, how on earth will I ever be able to leave?
Now, I must admit, in all my passion for missions, I’ve never really felt called to Asia. For as long as I can remember I have been obsessed with Central and South America, (which is the main reason I chose this route) and though I can’t say that my heart has changed a noticeably large amount, I’ve found myself loving all that the city of Chiang Mai has to offer. I can confidently say that God is doing a work in my heart, and I’m all for it. However, I’ve found myself in a very interesting place. As I battle the oh so infamous jet lag, I’ve also begun to juggle adjusting to my new home, roommates , and responsibilities… learning a few new things along the way:
1) The hearts I have already met are insanely amazing and inspirational.
2) 48 hours of travel really does a number on you.
3) There is absolutely no shortage of coffee in Thailand (nor hedgehogs apparently?).
4) Contrary to popular belief, being on The World Race does not mean you live in holes.
More on article number 4: I am beyond ridiculously blown away by our living conditions. In complete honesty, I don’t know if I want to even share with people how absolutely blessed we are here. Maybe its because I’d like to keep the facade that we’re out here suffering for Jesus. (Must be a 2018 missionary thing? I don’t know.) Anyways, all I remember was saying to one of my squad mates, “Quick! Take a picture of the place with the 24/7 waffle bar sign so we can come back!” only to discover approximately 2 seconds later that that “place” was going to be our new home for the next two months. Some of the “rough” accommodations that come with the Zion Hostel include but are not limited to:
1) A full blown (not to mention AMAZING) coffee shop called Bella Goose
2) Lofts with beds for everyone
3) A rooftop (with showers, and breathtaking views of the sunrise)
4) A kitchen
5) Amazing staff
6) Endless smiles
7) And finally… WiFi (well sometimes.)
8) Oh, also, clean water!
I know, I know, we are really riding the struggle bus out here.
The final adjustment I’ve made is to living a life of constant ministry. Whether it’s smiling at someone on the street, chatting with monks, or asking the Barista her name and informing her how INSANELY beautiful she is (seriously everyone here is gorgeous), there is absolutely no shortage of ways to minister to those around you. It took stepping out of my own home to realize the simplicity of such a thing. It almost seems so easy here that I start to wonder what’s prevented me from doing it back in my place of familiarity. Perhaps the most defined form of ministry ,however, is the one our team has been assigned to ( in fact it is the most defined one) for the next month we are doing “women’s ministry” which looks like painting a house for women and doing prayer walks. I must admit, its something that intimidates me, but I’m so excited to be stretched and empowered. What a gift!
I’m in love with getting to know my squad, and all that community living entails. Also…MOM, I CLEANED MY AREA WITHOUT BEING ASKED!! Though it’s only the first week. I’ve discovered so many personal challenges in trying to honor those around me, as well as trying to stay in tune to what God has for me, and not lose sight of why I’m here. A big, and perhaps underrated challenge is suppressing a Savior mentality. I’m so grateful for those who aren’t afraid to challenge me to focus, and redirect my heart. So much has happened in such a short time and I know with absolute confidence that this year, these people, these places, and my crazy cool Father, are absolutely going to change my life. The Emma Joy Briner you once knew is not the same one you will come to know upon return. Thank goodness.
Anywho, thats all for now! Stay tuned for some more updates soon!! Adios! ( I don’t know goodbye in Thai, sorry.)
