I have finally returned home!
After 11 months of traveling and a quick road trip from Chicago with great friends, I am on my front porch looking at a familiar, yet somewhat changed sight. It feels good to be back. I am happy to see my mom, dad, and sister. It was so good to know that when I saw them, this next season I will be able to poor into them and them into me. I missed them like crazy!
I get to see old friends and share in the stories that have shaped their past year. I can see how they have grown, what they have struggled with, where they have succeeded. I am so excited to share hugs, smiles, and laughs again!
At the same time, I am sad. Sad that the family I have been surrounded by this past year is now broken up. It will never be the same again. Not that it will end completely, but just in the context of living together in community, serving God, and pushing each other to be more like Him, will never look the same. I will see them from time to time. We will call, text, Skype, Facebook, and I will hear about what God is doing in their lives, but we might not get to share the same bed, deodorant, food, shower, or experiences!
That’s the best and hardest part of moving on to new things. It leaves you with such sweet memories and yet those memories can burn. I am battling the temptation to see my past as a culmination instead of part of the greater story of Christ. That temptation is always there when things change, but my hope is in something much deeper.
This was not my first transition and it wont be my last. I have been so blessed to pass through many seasons of love and community in my life, that God has used to get my attention. I will pass through new seasons of life and experiences and have to grieve those sweet memories as well.
But God is eternal.
All of my experiences are for Him to be made known and glorified. When I am reminded of this is brings me such awesome joy. My circumstances may never be the same, but my God is (James 1:17). He remains forever good, just, merciful, loving, patient, righteous, and kind.
As I say goodbye to people for now and take a step of faith into what is next, I know I can stand firm on the rock that is Jesus Christ. Knowing that in Him all things are made perfect and holy (Heb 10:14). I am on a path that will not be completed until I stand before my savior face to face. I wouldn’t trade one tear, smile, loss, or gain to pass over a moment, minute, season, or person that I have had the honor and joy of being a part of.
My next step is not the same and neither am I. Let God have all the glory!
