Monday, August 31, 2009

Unforeseen Circumstances

Due to unforeseen circumstances, I am coming home. I am talking to the sending agency and the people here at KCA, about the next steps. I like being in Kiev, and have thoroughly enjoyed the country, as I have been able to, but I am going to have to go home, at least temporarily. This is a very difficult decision and not one taken lightly.

A person wonders—what will my supporters think, will I be accepted upon arriving home (by more than my family), will I still be supported in my decision, will I be lifted up and encouraged during this difficult time in life. Or will I be ridiculed and looked down upon? Will people assume me as a failure or one who just couldn’t handle the “missionary life?”

God has called me here for a reason, and sometimes we do not know why, for years. Why did he bring me here for two weeks? I know I will come back; hopefully, sooner than later. “God, I want to trust you in every area of my life. I confess my pride concerning coming home. Thank you for your forgiveness. Amen.”

“My tears turned to tears of joy. Not because the pain was gone, but because I knew God was using me to reach His world. It’s not about me, but about Him. When you weep, whether from personal pain or disappointments, let God turn your tears of sorrow in to tears of joy, hope, love, and expectation for those around you. Let Him take your eyes off yourself. You may still cry tears, but they will be sweet tears—bittersweet tears.” Father, help me take my eyes off myself so that I can turn my eyes to the lovely face of Jesus. Amen.

As I was reading today, I found the best answer that I have ever heard concerning the question, “Where are you from or where do you live?” The answer, “It does not matter where I live or where I’m from, because Jesus lives in my heart.” No matter where I am, He is there with me. With Jesus in my heart, I’m at home anywhere.
The quoted paragraphs come from Beth Moore’s book, Voices of the Faithful.

I have been encouraged many times over by the people here at KCA and The Mission Society, my sending agency. People are concerned about me, and agree that it is a wise decision, to come home, for a period of time. The headmaster at the school said, “There is no shame in coming home.” I need to grasp that for myself and believe it in my heart.

I would covet your prayers, support, and encouragement, during this challenging and frustrating time. Prayer is our connection with God—and we know it works. Support—both physically and financially, as I am without work and I am trusting in Gods provision. Encouragement is vital; I am downtrodden.

7 comments:

lfhcreative said...

Oh Faith! I wish I could give you a big hug. I will be praying for safe travels and encouragement.

Sara Braisted said...

Lots of prayers your way, as always! God's many blessings & healings!

Sue said...

Faith,
I am shocked. You were so excited. What happened? Myself & others in western PA will be praying for you.

Margo said...

Faith, you are in my prayers. I can't imagine how hard it must have been to be alone in a different country - God will use you where he sees fit! There is no shame in trying something and having Him tell you it's not where you are supposed to be. Hang in there and accept the support of your friends and family, and rest up!

Craig said...

Faith, I, too, am sad that something has come between you and your time in Kiev. Know that I, too, pray for your safe travel and that God will show you your next steps on His path.

Carolyn said...

I'm so glad that you have found comfort from that Beth Moore book! I know that it provided encouragement to me many times. When you said earlier that there were so many difference that they're hard to list, I COMPLETELY understand! It can be overwhelming. Love you!

Erika said...

Faith, thank you for your honesty as your share your struggles. I wish I could bring you here to Iowa for a few weeks, put you up in my guestroom, plop one of my babies in your lap and sit with you and talk and pray. (Don't know when I'll be in S.A. next). Let me know if you could use a phone call.