As we stepped off the plane, my feet stepped upon the soil of my new home. I closed my eyes, breathed a big sigh, and took the first steps of what will be an exciting and challenging journey. It still seems surreal that we are here. Yesterday on a jeepney, I looked at Josh and said, “Am I dreaming?” But, no. I’m not dreaming. We are here.
There have been a lot of new things. Beautiful things, disgusting things, sad things, happy things.
Beautiful things: Other white people, good friends, rain, the guest home, nice malls, palm trees, & Chilis! Disgusting things: Human waste at the end of the driveway, trash everywhere, going through three shirts a day because of the sweat. Sad things: Kids playing in the filthy water in the streets, lots & lots of lost people, squatter villages. Happy things: That we have the opportunity to be here & knowing that one day, by God’s grace, there won’t be as many lost people!
We are currently still living in the guesthouse while our apartment is being remodeled and painted. We are hoping to be able to move in sometime this weekend or at the beginning of next week. The Lord blessed us to be able to find an apartment in the same complex as some of our friends. It’s amazing how much work and money it is taking as we start completely from scratch again. One challenging thing is that there are no closets, cabinets, or storage in our apartment. None! We’re still working on what we’re going to do about that. 🙂
We have all adjusted really well. The kids love riding on the jeepneys & in taxis. We will be able to get our own car in 6 months, but until then, this is how we get around. The food here at the guesthouse has been excellent. No complaints there. We have eaten out a few times. Check out the picture in our July album of Little Josh eating his rice ball! I really love the food here.
On a more serious note- since we’ve been here, God has really impressed a song upon my heart. “Before The Throne of God Above.” It has really helped me to keep my focus & remember that whether I am in Texas or the Philippines, I am before His throne. And when I’m tempted to despair, I remember He who made an end to all my sin & that that is why I am here. Because of what He did for me, I want to bring Him glory by pointing others to my Perfect Spotless Righteousness- Jesus. When I am afraid, I remember that one with Him, I cannot die. My life is hid with Christ on high! Hallelujah!!! May you be encouraged to keep pressing on for Him in whatever you may be doing! Thank you for your prayers. May all glory be to Him who has brought us this far!