This month has been somewhat of an emotional roller coaster. We were welcomed with the joy of snow falling in our new winter wonderland and new home for the month, which has now ended in almost 80 degree weather and one more goodbye to add. Even though new friends and relationships were made here in Mongolia, death was close behind as I lost another member of my family. The excitement of returning home combined with the memories and lessons learned this year overwhelms me as it hits me that I’ll be saying goodbye to the only community I’ve known for the last year. That’s when I realize I’ve found myself [ON THIS MOUNTAIN].
We were privileged to receive discipleship training from a missionary here in Mongolia, Mark, just a couple days ago. He encouraged us with re-entry and this new chapter of our lives. He compared it to when we first upgraded our phones to an iPhone. I’m sure most of us were somewhat frustrated when we had to make the switch from our flip phones and T9 texting to our touch screens and handheld gps. While it took some time to get used to, it was an upgrade and much more effective and useful.
On this mountain I look back and see the last ten months of my race on one side. I see all the hurt and joy it took to get me here. I see all of the lost relationships and new ones made. I see the growth and I see how much more growth there is still to be had. On this mountain I see all of the lives we reached, all of the new places discovered, and all of the lives that reached me. I see the life that didn’t stop for me back home. On this mountain I see what community looks like. I see all of the laughs and tears shared, the awkward conversations had, and the constant vulnerability.
On this mountain, I look ahead at the downward slope. It seems a bit steep and scary and I’m now alone. I have to start leading my own life and walking in who God has created me to be. Nothing on this side looks familiar and I don’t know what’s at the bottom awaiting me. On this mountain I see a world of possibility. My eyes are opened, my heart is eager, but I don’t know where the path leads. As I look out on the horizon of this mountain I see all of the people and places He used to get me here and know He will carry me the rest of the way.
I am being upgraded. I am going through the awkward transition, but know it will be worth it. It might take some getting used to, but this new chapter will be more effective and I will be used wherever He has me.
So, I will enjoy this view while I’m on this mountain. I will cherish the time I had in Mongolia and make the most of my last month in China. I will finish this race strong and rejoice when I see what’s at the end.
My social media will be limited as we will be in a communist country. Please do not mention any religious terms if you do message me. We fly out of Mongolia monday morning and fly to America May 22! Please keep our team and safety in your prayers. See you soon America!
