Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God. And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. -Philippians 4:17-19I can't begin to describe how different this Homeland Assignment is from our first one! We feel sent, not just supported. And I am definitely enjoying it!
Here are some reasons why:
- The pastor at our home church asked if we felt "sent" the first time, and resolved to make sure we did this time.
- Our missions chair has attended some of our services at other churches just to be an encouragement.
- We led a small group during Advent, we felt connected and they prayed over us (during the holidays when we didn't have lots of speaking engagements)
- Our sending church held an Ice Cream Social and prayed over us and donated sweet love gifts of craisins, and fruit snacks and other treats that taste like home.
- 7 people from church came and helped us stuff newsletters- 600 newsletters in 1 1/2 hour!
- A girl from church came over and watched the baby so we could be productive yesterday.
- Our last Sunday here they will pray for us in church (this Sunday at both services for SUMC folks!)
- We got word this week that a family from church is already working on a care package for us.
So, like Paul, we rejoice that our sending church is abounding in fruit- they are growing in missions and seriously caring for their home-grown missionaries. Their love and support is a sweet-smelling offering and worship that is well-pleasing to God. And we pray daily that our God would supply all their needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
If you're here from the Grove- how was your last Homeland Assignment? Did you enjoy it? And if you're a sender, know that we're grateful for you! What do you appreciate about visiting missionaries at church?
Such an encouragement to hear of all of these blessings to your family. I'm grateful for this testimony, and pray that the support you have received will abound and continue. Blessings to you!
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad this time around has been ready for you! My church tried to be very intentional about sending me when I left, but this sounds like an excellent way for a church to encourage and equip a missionary.
ReplyDeleteMine was a "study assignment" and was about three years long (with returning to field in the summers). I did enjoy it!!
ReplyDeleteLove that you are being well sent! Ours was a two year study assignment where we lived in an area brand new to us. After an initial period of loneliness, we were humbled and grateful for the way our new community embraced us and then sent us off.
ReplyDeleteI try to imagine what it will be like to come again - now, before we have even left.
ReplyDeleteI know it is beyond imagining.
Every new moment ahead of us will be a surprise.
Rejoicing in the blessings you are feeling now. Receive the love that's offered. Carry it with you.