A mother's reflection on trusting God [by Amanda]

A few nights ago, our team spent some time at a local agency hosting an “English corner” for 8-12 year olds. These students come once a week to practice their English with native speakers. Our team played games, taught songs, and told stories about Christmas in America.

While everyone else was crammed into a tiny room having tons of fun, Abi and I made our way to the waiting room full of parents and grandparents. Right away, a mom took Abi in her arms. Smiling, she said, “Tā yănjing piàoliang” (meaning: her eyes are beautiful). She could not get over Abi’s blue eyes or her radiant smile.

After several other adults played with her, one of the fathers in the group picked Abi up and carried her towards the hall. Little did I know that he had spotted a mirror and wanted to see if Abi enjoyed looking at herself as much as the native babies do. In the room, one of our American friends living in this city sat and observed the situation. Later, she took me aside and asked me if it was hard to have so many people wanting to be around Abi and take her places without communicating it to me.

I looked at her and smiled. I told her it was hard, but it is nothing compared what our Father did when He sent His Son to a world that would ultimately kill him. Trusting the Father’s plan for Abi’s life can sometimes be a struggle. The reality is I want Abi to be comfortable and provided for. I don’t ever want to see her suffer or get hurt. As she grows up, I want her to see her family often and be near me all the time. However, these desires of mine are not what should determine the life she will lead because she was born with a purpose greater than physical safety or comfort. The Father created her life to bring Himself glory. For right now, that means she is living on the other side of the world, helping her parents and friends build relationships with people who do not know the Son. I am not sure what it will be like in 20 or 30 years, but I am confident the Lord is preparing us both for the plan He has for her life.

December Prayer Requests

Family – Since it is very cold, pray Abi will not get sick and that she would not be too stir crazy having to be inside all day. Also, pray that she will be happy as we travel home next weekend through fourteen time-zones. Pray for Amanda as she takes care of Abi and interacts with friends in our apartment complex. Pray for Jonathan, that he will know how to lead and manage the team, in addition to caring for his family and making new friends.

New Friends – Pray for our new friends. Several of them are spending a lot of time with some of our team. Pray that the message and life of Christ would be clear to them. Ask boldly that the Father would give them the light of the knowledge of His glory in the face of Christ. Also, pray they would connect with our “long-term American friends” living in this city.

The Team – Pray for team unity, health, and excitement for what God is doing here. Pray they will not be too homesick as we finish our last week here. Also, pray they will re-enter American culture with a heart oriented around God and his kingdom. Finally, pray they will not suffer “reverse culture shock” as it may be difficult to re-connect with friends, family, church, and school.