There’s a title you haven’t seen from me during a September in the past decade. Most overseas missionaries complete four full years on the field and then complete one full year home assignment. I’ve taken an alternate route, completing ten months on the field and two months on home assignment most years. That means that I haven’t been around for longer than a few months in about ten years. It is time for me to be in the States for fall and Christmas and birthdays, and an entire sermon series at my sending church.
Home assignments are supposed to be about connecting. My sending church and most supporters live in West Texas, but my family is in the metroplex and Houston. I haven’t quite figured out how to split my time well since those places aren’t near each other, but I hope that a whole year is enough time to connect with folks all over the state.
I’m with my sending church now, getting ready for the fall kick-off of small groups. I’m subbing several days a week, as my support isn’t enough to cover all the costs associated with living in the States; I’m nerdily excited about what new tips and techniques I’ll pick up from schools along the way! The Lord has provided a place for me to stay and a car for me to drive while here. I’m hopeful for the time I’ll get to spend with those at my sending church; ten years has meant a lot of growth and there are lots of members that I don’t know and vice versa.
As soon as next week I’m headed back to the metroplex for an MK caregivers conference. I think the fall will look a lot like that…travel between places to best connect with those both at and away from my sending church. I’d appreciate prayers as I try to schedule my time well. Also, if you want to connect, please contact me. I’ve got ten more months!
