What I learned my first term


In seven days our first four year term as overseas missionaries comes to an end. It flew by. Most missionaries don't make it this far, and even less leave the first term with plans of returning.


We made it and we're coming back. But only because of God's grace.


I grew up on the mission field and this helped so much, but I still learned a lot.


1. I'm not one of those women who can balance "ministry" with family. Womens Bible studies, prayer groups, one on one discipleship...all those things will have to wait. I have a family to raise. Maybe in 20 years?


2. Apart from my relationship with God, my marriage is more important than anything else. If that relationship fails, everything else does too.


3. I still hate packing.


4. Saying goodbye doesn't get easier.


5. Plans change.


6. God is in control.


And probably the biggest thing I learned this term...


7. I don't know anything.


I still have so much to learn.

7 comments:

Kathy said...

You DID learn something: how important your husband and kids are and how important you all are to God! :) This week will FLY by, so enjoy it too! I'm so happy you will soon be able to show your kids a Toys-R-Us! :)

~Karen_ said...

I understand and agree! It is always nice to hear of other missionary wives who primarily minister to their families!

Where will you be when you come to the USA? It would be nice to meet you since I've met most of the rest of your family (mom, dad, sisters, but not your brother).

My God give you all safety while traveling!

Unknown said...

I Love You! See you in a week! (Boy oh, that felt good to type!)

Heather Wheelock said...

I'm with you on all points! Well said. I was kinda hoping that you were gonna say that the goodbyes do get easier some day! Oh well :-) and if you ever find someone who LIKES to pack please tell them to make their life's ministry to pack for missionaries :-) Hope you guys have a great furlough. Maybe some day we can get into the same country at the same time again!

Sarah Joy said...

I love it! I especially relate to #7!

D said...

Thank you for your honesty. I stumbled upon your blog today as I too am evaluating my first four years on the field, and it was a huge encouragement. I need to focus so much more on being a better mom and wife, and not pretend or try to be superwoman. God bless you and your family! Denise in Estonia.

Tereza said...

#7~ yup I've learnded that too...if not on the mission field but on the mission field of motherhood:)