My favorite aspect of this year is getting to know people of Paraguay. I love interacting and sometimes even holding conversation with neighbors- when I am having a good day with my spanish that is. :) Those briefest moments make my experience much richer.
It is by getting to know people here that one is able to see the true spirit of Paraguay. In the shy smile from my neighbor Sophie as I walk to work. Or the friendly adios from Toni and Laura on the way to church. In these brief moments I find much joy.
But some of my most memorable moments occur over terere. The chilled terere during a hot summer day creates a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Any sort of conversation can come up over terere. Maybe the re-telling of a hillarious moment staring a kid from the Guardaria. Or a sad tale of our neighbors who made a poor decision. Listening into these talks gives me a glimpse of how God is at work in Paraguay. How through loving relationships, God is changing lives.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Monday, November 16, 2009
Grace Like Rain
I love rainy days. But rainy days are a little different in Paraguay. When it rains, the roads turn muddy and unpassable. The road infront of my house looks something similar to a creek if it gets wet enough. So when it rains, Asuncion takes the day off. Schools close, parents stay home, and the day is free.
On Wednesday, we had a very rainy day. I woke up to the sound of rain hitting the roof. It was a relaxing rhythm that coaxed me further under the covers. Once my tired body was convinced it was morning, I headed downstairs for breakfast, which consisted of a warm cup of cocido- warm milk, but for me soy milk, brewed jerva, the tea leaves used to make terere. Together, me and my host family sat under the patio, watching the rain spill over the terrain. It was such a tranquil sceen.
Since the Guardaria was closed for the day, the dawas very relaxed. For the rest of the morning I sat with Alfred and Edulia, drinking steaming hot mate while surrounded by the chill breeze of the rain fall. This was such a spiritual experience for me. It felt as if God was clearing away all the dirt from my heart.
As the clouds cleared and the rain ceased, the sweet smell of wet grass filled the air. Edulia began cooking bread for the month and the kids spent their free time watching tv. This rainy day was such a blessing. An opportunity to recharge and be reminded of God`s provision.
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demonds, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God.
-Romans 8: 38, 39
On Wednesday, we had a very rainy day. I woke up to the sound of rain hitting the roof. It was a relaxing rhythm that coaxed me further under the covers. Once my tired body was convinced it was morning, I headed downstairs for breakfast, which consisted of a warm cup of cocido- warm milk, but for me soy milk, brewed jerva, the tea leaves used to make terere. Together, me and my host family sat under the patio, watching the rain spill over the terrain. It was such a tranquil sceen.
Since the Guardaria was closed for the day, the dawas very relaxed. For the rest of the morning I sat with Alfred and Edulia, drinking steaming hot mate while surrounded by the chill breeze of the rain fall. This was such a spiritual experience for me. It felt as if God was clearing away all the dirt from my heart.
As the clouds cleared and the rain ceased, the sweet smell of wet grass filled the air. Edulia began cooking bread for the month and the kids spent their free time watching tv. This rainy day was such a blessing. An opportunity to recharge and be reminded of God`s provision.
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demonds, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God.
-Romans 8: 38, 39
Monday, November 9, 2009
Digging to the Core
Being immersed in a culture which you don´t know the language give a lot a time for time for thinking. After a full day of thoughts, I go to my journal to release some of my questions. On November 1st, my day led to this entry...
Last night when I plopped onto my bed, I found myself questioning... who am I?
What kind of person am I becoming after just two months in Paraguay? For most of
my life I have been able to identify myself by what I did
or maybe by certian personality traits. But I don´t have those discriptions to hide
behind anymore. While all those charcteristics are great assets, they are not the core
who I am. The very center of me is that I am a child of God. I am his daughter. But
what does that really mean? How can I continue to dig deeper to discover who God
wants me to become? The only way I know how is to become hungry once
again for Christ. Over and over I must continue to fall to my knees and offer all of myself
to Christ. Because it is through him that I am made whole.
I have found that after journaling I am left with an eager heart. A new found excitment is developing in my faith. Who knows where God may lead...
Monday, November 2, 2009
La Guardaria
Coming into this year I didn´t have much of an idea what sort of voulenteer work I would be doing. But now I do! Now, I am beginning have a pace to life.
For the past two weeks I have been working with 10 wonderful co-workers at Iglesia de Amistad´s daycare and kindergarden program. About 96 kids between the ages of one and four spend either a part or the whole day at the Guarderia. With patience and kindness, both the faculty and kids have been showing me how things run. So far my job discription has looked something like this...
For the past two weeks I have been working with 10 wonderful co-workers at Iglesia de Amistad´s daycare and kindergarden program. About 96 kids between the ages of one and four spend either a part or the whole day at the Guarderia. With patience and kindness, both the faculty and kids have been showing me how things run. So far my job discription has looked something like this...
nose wiper, dish washer, lice picker,
dance instructor, cook assistant,
floor sweeper, terere drinker,
hair dresser, hug giver, shoe tie-er,
wardrobe assistant etc....
Each day is an opportunity to learn something new! Who knows what occupation I may be interested in after such a variety of experiences! :)
Monday, October 26, 2009
Helping Hands
The other day I was walking through the neighborhood with one of our family friends and my host mom. We got to a point where the path led to a bridge over a creek. The bridge consisted of two long logs stretched across the gap with a few tattered and broken boards loosely nailed to the supporting logs. As I watched our neighbor expertly cross the bridge, I could hear the wood creeking and saw the bridge wobble and sag with each step.
This is when I began to realize that I too would be crossing that bridge. You have got to be kidding me, I thought. There is no way I can cross that thing. I took one step on to the mess of a bridge and the very first thing I do is look down. The only object in the way of me falling 8 feet to the rocky creek bottom was a worn out board.
I could´t do it. Each time I put my food ahead of me to test the bridge, the board would alert me that it was not capable to carry my weight with an awful creeking sound. At this point, I started looking back trying to see if I could possibly take another route. There was no other choice but to go forward. It was then that my friend came back across the bridge. She took my hand and guided me to the secure and safe points on the bridge. Slowly she held my hand until we safely reached the other side.
In the same way I have been experiencing God in Paraguay. Last week was not easy for me. I had been feeling sick and thinking of home a lot. But God heard my cries and he took me into his firm embrace. I am so blessed to have helping hands from my Radical Journey teammates, my host family, and the friends of my host church. They reached out to me when the bridge a head seemed quite impossible to pass alone. It is with God´s love through others that I have begun walking forward.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Christ Be Our Light
Over the past three weeks in Paraguay, I have seen the bible, Jesus and the church in a different context. In my neighborhood, the church and what it believes is very different from the surrounding community. People of the church naturally stand out because of the choices they make.
For example- when people fill the bars on the weekend, the youth of the church worship together. As my neighbor comes home drunk, my host mom prays for the safety of his wife and children. When there is too much free time for the kids of the neighborhood, the women of the church create Saturday morning activities for them to learn about Christ. As problems of the world are ever present, the people of the church respond in Christ like ways.
What does this mean for me. In what ways can I stand out from the world in order to be a shining light for Christ. How can we as a church stand out in the world.
For example- when people fill the bars on the weekend, the youth of the church worship together. As my neighbor comes home drunk, my host mom prays for the safety of his wife and children. When there is too much free time for the kids of the neighborhood, the women of the church create Saturday morning activities for them to learn about Christ. As problems of the world are ever present, the people of the church respond in Christ like ways.
What does this mean for me. In what ways can I stand out from the world in order to be a shining light for Christ. How can we as a church stand out in the world.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Mi Familia
One of the highlights of living in Paraguay living in a host family. I can remember from the first time I met them thinking, ¨Now this is a neat family.¨
My host father, Alfred, is the lead pastor of our church, La Amistad. He has a great sence of humor (at least from the phrases I understand) and seems to always be laughing at something or other. Edulia, my host mom, is a mother figure for the surrounding neighborhood. Daily she visits people who are sick or going through a rough time. Edulia is also very involved in our church by planning childrens activities, decorating for fiestas or by welcoming others with her warm smile.
Now- the explaination of my family would not be complete if I left out my new brothers and sister! Jeremias (11), Noemi (9), and Josias (7) are three full of life kids that I have enjoyed getting to know the past two weeks. The first time I met Jeremias he came running to give me a big hug (what a great way to be welcomed into the family!). He seems to be the inquisitive and observant one. When I was first unpacking, Jeremias took interest in each of my posessions, intently asking ¿Que es eso? or ´what is that?´.
Noemi is a charming girl. She enjoys singing and dancing weather or not their is music on. Noemi has also had a lot of patience with me, as she helps me learn the spanish language. Josias is a hyper kid who loves to fool around. He loves playing soccer and makes many funny faces in a day.
Even from the few days I have lived with the Klassens, it has been a gift to see how Christ like they act towards people in their community. From simply exchanging a friendly ´buen dia´to having friends and family over for savory meals. Their home is filled with love. I think that is partly because they so freely give love to others. In Dorothy Day´s autobiography ¨The Long Loneliness¨, she states that
¨Most of our life is unimportant, filled with trivial things from
morning till night. But when it is transformed by love it is
of interest even to the angels.¨
The Klassens have fully embraced this idea and have discovered the gift of love with no boundaries.
My host father, Alfred, is the lead pastor of our church, La Amistad. He has a great sence of humor (at least from the phrases I understand) and seems to always be laughing at something or other. Edulia, my host mom, is a mother figure for the surrounding neighborhood. Daily she visits people who are sick or going through a rough time. Edulia is also very involved in our church by planning childrens activities, decorating for fiestas or by welcoming others with her warm smile.
Now- the explaination of my family would not be complete if I left out my new brothers and sister! Jeremias (11), Noemi (9), and Josias (7) are three full of life kids that I have enjoyed getting to know the past two weeks. The first time I met Jeremias he came running to give me a big hug (what a great way to be welcomed into the family!). He seems to be the inquisitive and observant one. When I was first unpacking, Jeremias took interest in each of my posessions, intently asking ¿Que es eso? or ´what is that?´.
Noemi is a charming girl. She enjoys singing and dancing weather or not their is music on. Noemi has also had a lot of patience with me, as she helps me learn the spanish language. Josias is a hyper kid who loves to fool around. He loves playing soccer and makes many funny faces in a day.
Even from the few days I have lived with the Klassens, it has been a gift to see how Christ like they act towards people in their community. From simply exchanging a friendly ´buen dia´to having friends and family over for savory meals. Their home is filled with love. I think that is partly because they so freely give love to others. In Dorothy Day´s autobiography ¨The Long Loneliness¨, she states that
¨Most of our life is unimportant, filled with trivial things from
morning till night. But when it is transformed by love it is
of interest even to the angels.¨
The Klassens have fully embraced this idea and have discovered the gift of love with no boundaries.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Life in Paraguay
The other day I said in very broken spanish to my host mom, ¨muchos cosas para mi escribir¨.
What I was trying to say was there are so many events for me to discribe that I don´t know where to start. How can I manage to discribe what I have seen and learned so far.
Well- first of all it is improtant to know how loving and beautiful the people of Paraguay are. Their unconditional love and hospitality has made me feel very welcomed. The past couple days I have gotten to know people in my neighborhood, host family, and members of numberous Mennonite churches in Asuncion. I have felt especially welcomed by my host family as they have made many sacrifices to have me in their home such as taking time to explain the spanish language, providing dairy free food and inviting me so freely into their lives.
For the next three weeks, me and my Radical Journey teammates will be taking the time to work on our Spanish-which can be quite humerous at times- and becoming familiar with Asuncion. This time of orientation has been very helpful as we begin to get situated in our homes.
Some days I look around me and wonder why I am here. Why is it that God called me to Paraguay. Throughout these next 10 months I want to be open to whatever God has instore for me. I have no clue where that may take me, but I am ready for a ´radical journey´.
Disclaimer: I am still getting use to the key boards down here so sorry if I do not use all the correct grammer hehe
What I was trying to say was there are so many events for me to discribe that I don´t know where to start. How can I manage to discribe what I have seen and learned so far.
Well- first of all it is improtant to know how loving and beautiful the people of Paraguay are. Their unconditional love and hospitality has made me feel very welcomed. The past couple days I have gotten to know people in my neighborhood, host family, and members of numberous Mennonite churches in Asuncion. I have felt especially welcomed by my host family as they have made many sacrifices to have me in their home such as taking time to explain the spanish language, providing dairy free food and inviting me so freely into their lives.
For the next three weeks, me and my Radical Journey teammates will be taking the time to work on our Spanish-which can be quite humerous at times- and becoming familiar with Asuncion. This time of orientation has been very helpful as we begin to get situated in our homes.
Some days I look around me and wonder why I am here. Why is it that God called me to Paraguay. Throughout these next 10 months I want to be open to whatever God has instore for me. I have no clue where that may take me, but I am ready for a ´radical journey´.
Disclaimer: I am still getting use to the key boards down here so sorry if I do not use all the correct grammer hehe
Friday, September 18, 2009
Dirty Rotten Day
Bad days are no fun.
It all started when I discovered I needed to have the yellow fever shot... which I did not have. I cannot get into Paraguay without this shot. And I am leaving on Sunday. This resulted in two hours of being put on hold trying to find an office that could give me the shot before I leave.
Next thing, my debit card was not working. Try as I might, it would not work when trying to make a small purchase at Walgreen's. How am I going to get by in Paraguay without money? Yet again phone calls were made and more annoying hold music filled my ears.
Oh and yes. The washing machine decided to attack my clothing, resulting in gross detergent everywhere. It was a mess. And terrible timing.
All of this plus preparing to leave for Paraguay on Sunday.
It was a bad, terrible, no good, dirty rotten day filled with a roller coaster of emotions. But God was present. I saw God through friends who cleaned my laundry for me. Friends who gave me hugs, notes and prayers of encouragement. Friends who took me to the clinic so I would not get lost. I saw God in all of them. Looking back on the day, I can see that this was God's way of reminding me of his constant support.
I need not fear, for he will be there to take my hand and guide me along the way.
It all started when I discovered I needed to have the yellow fever shot... which I did not have. I cannot get into Paraguay without this shot. And I am leaving on Sunday. This resulted in two hours of being put on hold trying to find an office that could give me the shot before I leave.
Next thing, my debit card was not working. Try as I might, it would not work when trying to make a small purchase at Walgreen's. How am I going to get by in Paraguay without money? Yet again phone calls were made and more annoying hold music filled my ears.
Oh and yes. The washing machine decided to attack my clothing, resulting in gross detergent everywhere. It was a mess. And terrible timing.
All of this plus preparing to leave for Paraguay on Sunday.
It was a bad, terrible, no good, dirty rotten day filled with a roller coaster of emotions. But God was present. I saw God through friends who cleaned my laundry for me. Friends who gave me hugs, notes and prayers of encouragement. Friends who took me to the clinic so I would not get lost. I saw God in all of them. Looking back on the day, I can see that this was God's way of reminding me of his constant support.
I need not fear, for he will be there to take my hand and guide me along the way.
Monday, September 14, 2009
One Baby Step Forward
I would not consider myself an athletic person.
Due to my athletic past (which includes many balls hitting me in the head :), I was quite surprised when I agreed to run with a group of girls in the morning. At first we took our mornings very slowly. As we continued, each morning got relatively easier. Yes, there were some days that I hardly had enough motivation to pull myself away from my warm bed. And yes, I am by far not the worlds greatest jogger after all my "hard work". But I keep getting up. Each morning is a new opportunity. A chance to go a bit farther or jog a bit faster than the day before.
I am trying to look at the next 10 months with the same attitude. Yes we do not know what we will be doing. And yes we might not be the most qualified for the job. But with God's strength we can look at each day as a new chance to take a step forward. An opportunity to connect to our host families in a new way. Or a chance to learn some more Spanish.
With each baby step, I hope to learn how to "live a life worthy of the calling we have received" (Ephesians 4:1).
Due to my athletic past (which includes many balls hitting me in the head :), I was quite surprised when I agreed to run with a group of girls in the morning. At first we took our mornings very slowly. As we continued, each morning got relatively easier. Yes, there were some days that I hardly had enough motivation to pull myself away from my warm bed. And yes, I am by far not the worlds greatest jogger after all my "hard work". But I keep getting up. Each morning is a new opportunity. A chance to go a bit farther or jog a bit faster than the day before.
I am trying to look at the next 10 months with the same attitude. Yes we do not know what we will be doing. And yes we might not be the most qualified for the job. But with God's strength we can look at each day as a new chance to take a step forward. An opportunity to connect to our host families in a new way. Or a chance to learn some more Spanish.
With each baby step, I hope to learn how to "live a life worthy of the calling we have received" (Ephesians 4:1).
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
A Lesson in Hospitality
It all started with a bag of popcorn.
On Monday we were given the whole day to practice the gift of hospitality. With no guidelines or regulations, we were free to be creative with our time. Nothing in particular came to mind for me, so I decided to keep the day open for God do his thing. All I knew was I wanted some of Chicago's very own Garret's popcorn (www.garrettpopcorn.com). They have some of the best caramel corn ever! :) So off I went to find me some popcorn. On the way downtown, I was praying and observing the people I passed. The closer I got to Garret's the more homeless I saw. And this is where it all begins.
A young couple stopped me asking for some spare change. I felt a tug at my heart and went for it. They just lost their jobs and have been living on the streets for a couple months. After getting them a meal, we talked for awhile about their current struggles. I gave them my best wishes and continued on my way to the popcorn.
Once I found my beloved popcorn, I thought it would be awesome to continue talking to people and hearing their stories over this beautiful snack . One young woman I shared popcorn with told me how in the last week she had given birth to a still born from all the stress of being homeless. Another man I met gave me a big smile at the end of our encounter and said I was 'such a sweet girl'.
I must have looked quite silly sharing my big bag of caramel popcorn in downtown Chicago, most likely smiling from ear to ear. Not only was I feeling excited about my special treat, but the joy of sharing and listening to others share their stories. Everyone has struggles. Each of us have times of pain. It is through those stories that we can look back and see where God has been holding us close.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Asking the Hard Questions
The other day we got into our country groups and tried to explain what we have learned over the past two weeks and where we are spiritually. But I couldn't seem to do it. I wasn't able to express my spiritual walk, my questions or believes. I was stumped.
Part of the reason for this 'spiritual standstill' might have been caused by the whirlwind of new information I have received thus far. From talking to JPUSA residents about their faith walks to hearing about the issue of male prostitution in Chicago (http://www.streets.org/). Or maybe it is the new faith insights I have received from our Radical Journey discussions. And quite possibly it could also be this new sense of responsibility to make my faith my own in this new found adulthood. All of these opportunities sparked an investigation of my current spiritual foundation. What exactly does my hope lie in? Am I truly surrendering my life to Christ?
But amidst all these questions I feel a sense of calm. Because even as my questions begin to pile up, I am reassured that I want Christ to be the center. God's powerful and mighty love has reshaped peoples lives and is at work in Chicago. Questioning my current truths does not leave me feeling weak, but finally alive to God's call.
Part of the reason for this 'spiritual standstill' might have been caused by the whirlwind of new information I have received thus far. From talking to JPUSA residents about their faith walks to hearing about the issue of male prostitution in Chicago (http://www.streets.org/). Or maybe it is the new faith insights I have received from our Radical Journey discussions. And quite possibly it could also be this new sense of responsibility to make my faith my own in this new found adulthood. All of these opportunities sparked an investigation of my current spiritual foundation. What exactly does my hope lie in? Am I truly surrendering my life to Christ?
But amidst all these questions I feel a sense of calm. Because even as my questions begin to pile up, I am reassured that I want Christ to be the center. God's powerful and mighty love has reshaped peoples lives and is at work in Chicago. Questioning my current truths does not leave me feeling weak, but finally alive to God's call.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
An Adventure for the Sences
Let me tell you what- I love the cultural diversity of Chicago. There is nothing quite like it.
This weekend I had the opportunity to get a piece of both Greek and Latin culture right in the heart of Chicago. On Friday night we ventured out to the Greek festival. Walking down the blocked off street, a variety of smells and sounds were every which direction. Tempting aromas drifted through the air from the open grills on each side street. The authentic Greek music being played gave an exciting energy to the party.
Saturday we ventured off to the Latino Festival. After taking the "scenic route" to the park we were excited to hear the inviting sounds of the Latino band. All around us both young and old were dancing to the music. Some were doing traditional salsa while others were break dancing. Even us Mennonites were moving along- now that's impressive! :)
Looking back on the eventful weekend, I find so much power in different cultural backgrounds celebrating together. By learning more about cultures that differ from our own, we can learn to love each other that much more!
This weekend I had the opportunity to get a piece of both Greek and Latin culture right in the heart of Chicago. On Friday night we ventured out to the Greek festival. Walking down the blocked off street, a variety of smells and sounds were every which direction. Tempting aromas drifted through the air from the open grills on each side street. The authentic Greek music being played gave an exciting energy to the party.
Saturday we ventured off to the Latino Festival. After taking the "scenic route" to the park we were excited to hear the inviting sounds of the Latino band. All around us both young and old were dancing to the music. Some were doing traditional salsa while others were break dancing. Even us Mennonites were moving along- now that's impressive! :)
Looking back on the eventful weekend, I find so much power in different cultural backgrounds celebrating together. By learning more about cultures that differ from our own, we can learn to love each other that much more!
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Ready, Set, Go!
Oh what adventure today has been!
After three days of finding our way through the city, our final test has come. This morning we were blindfolded and taken to an unknown location and told to find our way back. The adventure begins!
Team Paraguay was dropped off in a Spanish neighborhood with nothing but a map to direct us. But never fear- we knew where we were. :) After feeling quite confident about our location, we took the time to work on our Spanish at a near by flea market. Spanish was being spoken everywhere and I found myself not feel nervous but rather excited for the challenge. One food vendor held a Spanish conversation with Naomi and I about her produce. Melons, pinas y tomates are a few of the many fresh produce that added color to the market.
Later, while eating lunch at the Resturante de patio, I told the team "a couple of months from now, we will be eating together in Paraguay". Together we will soon be embarking on a journey of a life time.
But never fear-- God is leading the way.
After three days of finding our way through the city, our final test has come. This morning we were blindfolded and taken to an unknown location and told to find our way back. The adventure begins!
Team Paraguay was dropped off in a Spanish neighborhood with nothing but a map to direct us. But never fear- we knew where we were. :) After feeling quite confident about our location, we took the time to work on our Spanish at a near by flea market. Spanish was being spoken everywhere and I found myself not feel nervous but rather excited for the challenge. One food vendor held a Spanish conversation with Naomi and I about her produce. Melons, pinas y tomates are a few of the many fresh produce that added color to the market.
Later, while eating lunch at the Resturante de patio, I told the team "a couple of months from now, we will be eating together in Paraguay". Together we will soon be embarking on a journey of a life time.
But never fear-- God is leading the way.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Living the City Life
Greetings from Chicago!
So this very moment I am sitting at a computer in the library of one of the most beautiful cities out there. Life is good :)
But I guess I better back track a bit and fill you in to how I go here. Sunday morning my dad and I left at 5:50am for the Dulles airport. We found everything ok and said tearful goodbyes as I headed off to my flight alone. While siting for my plane to board, I had an overwhelming feeling of independence which both excited and scared me.
After a bit of a delay I did make it to the O'Hare Airport in Chicago right on time. A handful of other Radical Journey members where there and we headed off to meet the rest of our group. For the remaining part of the day we moved into our pocket sized flat at Jesus People USA (http://www.jpusa.org/) and got to know the other members of our group. JPUSA is a intentional community in Chicago of about 450 residents that shows Christ's light to their brothers and sisters in the city. Their loving and generous hospitality was a wonderful welcome.
For the last three days we have been preparing for our year long journey to come. Usually we have a prayer time with the residents of JPUSA. We have also taken the time to share our faith stories which has been a powerful experience. Today we had the chance to navigate the city of Chicago by our selves in a scavenger hunt which was quite an adventure indeed! :)
It is weird to think that I have only been at orientation for 4 days because the relationships that have formed seem so much more developed. Together we are getting excited to live out God's call in our lives and there is nothing quite more exciting than that!
Looking over this post, I feel like I have left so much out! But unfortunately I have a time limit here and that time is almost up. But in closing I do have one more thing to say. I want to remind you that Christ is at work through the people of Chicago! It is such a blessing to be a part of this group! Thank you again for your continued prayers and support. Love you guys!
So this very moment I am sitting at a computer in the library of one of the most beautiful cities out there. Life is good :)
But I guess I better back track a bit and fill you in to how I go here. Sunday morning my dad and I left at 5:50am for the Dulles airport. We found everything ok and said tearful goodbyes as I headed off to my flight alone. While siting for my plane to board, I had an overwhelming feeling of independence which both excited and scared me.
After a bit of a delay I did make it to the O'Hare Airport in Chicago right on time. A handful of other Radical Journey members where there and we headed off to meet the rest of our group. For the remaining part of the day we moved into our pocket sized flat at Jesus People USA (http://www.jpusa.org/) and got to know the other members of our group. JPUSA is a intentional community in Chicago of about 450 residents that shows Christ's light to their brothers and sisters in the city. Their loving and generous hospitality was a wonderful welcome.
For the last three days we have been preparing for our year long journey to come. Usually we have a prayer time with the residents of JPUSA. We have also taken the time to share our faith stories which has been a powerful experience. Today we had the chance to navigate the city of Chicago by our selves in a scavenger hunt which was quite an adventure indeed! :)
It is weird to think that I have only been at orientation for 4 days because the relationships that have formed seem so much more developed. Together we are getting excited to live out God's call in our lives and there is nothing quite more exciting than that!
Looking over this post, I feel like I have left so much out! But unfortunately I have a time limit here and that time is almost up. But in closing I do have one more thing to say. I want to remind you that Christ is at work through the people of Chicago! It is such a blessing to be a part of this group! Thank you again for your continued prayers and support. Love you guys!
Sunday, August 16, 2009
7 Days and Counting
It's hard to believe that this time next week I will be in Chicago getting ready for an incredible journey! God has prepared me bit by bit for this new step and I am excited to take it with Him.
This was my last Sunday at church-- and what a great experience it was. I felt the community of Harrisonburg Mennonite wrapping their arms around me and affirming my decision. I feel very blessed to have such a supportive body keeping me in their thoughts and prayers.
This next week there are a lot of goodbyes in store. I don't like to think of leaving in a 'goodbye' sort of way, but rather a 'see ya later'. I can't wait till when I can get together with friends and family after my year in Paraguay to exchange laughs once again like not a day passed.
This is all I am going to post for now but so much more exciting events are sure to come!
This was my last Sunday at church-- and what a great experience it was. I felt the community of Harrisonburg Mennonite wrapping their arms around me and affirming my decision. I feel very blessed to have such a supportive body keeping me in their thoughts and prayers.
This next week there are a lot of goodbyes in store. I don't like to think of leaving in a 'goodbye' sort of way, but rather a 'see ya later'. I can't wait till when I can get together with friends and family after my year in Paraguay to exchange laughs once again like not a day passed.
This is all I am going to post for now but so much more exciting events are sure to come!
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