I have never been known for my eloquent writing or profound ideas, but I am once again faced with an empty page and a needed blog post. The last several months have brought many changes, some good, some bad, and some just change. If you know me on a personal level, you know that change isn’t really my favorite thing, so I have been struggling a bit lately.
As I was reflecting on what to write, I realized that I can relate to our father Abraham in many ways. Just as the Lord told Abraham to pack up everything and head for a land he had never been to, I too was asked by God to leave the only town I had ever known (except the beautiful Bryan/College Station of course) and move to Honduras. Just like Abraham, there have been ups and downs, but through it all I have felt the Lord’s presence with me, urging me to continue to fight when things get hard.
In January of this year, our ministry position changed slightly. Jeff and I are now the Stateside Team which means that we spend considerably more time in the U.S. While we are in the U.S. we speak to and train groups that are coming to serve with us in Honduras as well as fundraise for different ministry projects. While we are in Honduras, we continue our village ministry work. We spend about half the year in Honduras and half in the U.S., but it is broken up into 3-month, 2-month, and 1-month sections.
At first glance, this seemed like it was going to be the best thing ever, the best of both worlds, but I soon felt like I was relating to Abraham again. I often feel like a nomad, constantly moving and setting up “home” again in different places. Just when I feel like I get back into a routine and schedule, it is time to move again. Adjusting back and forth to the different cultures has also been a challenge. Life in the U.S. is faster-paced and always on the go, while in Honduras, there is a much more relaxed atmosphere and go-with-the-flow spirit.
It is inevitable that when I first start driving back in the U.S. I am astounded at how fast the cars are going around me. I am often reminded of Dorothy’s quote in the Wizard of Oz, “People come and go so quickly here!” It takes time to readjust, and the same is true when returning to Honduras.
But, more than anything is the feeling of being torn between two homes. Most of our family and long-time friends live in the Crosby area, the place we called home for most of our lives, but we have also built a family here in Honduras. We found that we quickly realized how much we missed them as well. So, much like Abraham, home moves for us. It seems like we are in a constant state of moving, but we, just like Abraham have to trust God during this season. Although we are experiencing much change currently, we serve the one true God, Who doesn’t change. My challenge through this season is to cling to the Lord, to trust in Him and to find comfort in His unchanging nature.
Shirley Taber says
Amazing blog! I can understand how you feel. Trust God are the key words here!
Cindy Jimison says
Hi Michelle!! this is so true! just like Abraham! we were so glad to meet you and Jeff and your kids! our Micah and Lindsey love you so much! you are a big blessing to them and to ’61 Isaiah’!!!
i can relate to your article cuz we were pastors for 25+ years and i was a p.k. too! we’d just get settled in to a place and then we’d move on…..
In high school in California, one of my best friends was from Mexico….so, it was fun to hear the language. Thank you for your ministry…..it has a far reaching impact!!!! Hugs!!!!