So, the other day I got an email from my mom, and she told me that my sister is going to be visiting the Iowa City group for a few weeks. Although most people, including myself normally, would consider this simply information being exchanged, it has brought up a whole lot of emotions in me. I am not there to be a part of it this time. After spending 6 months in the States, being able to participate in all the family gatherings whether based on a holiday, other major event or just because, it's hard to go back to a life 8 times zones away.
Don't get me wrong, I love being here in Ukraine. It has all the elements of a great life: a wonderful church, fantastic friends, awesome school and even a grandma who cooks us wonderful treats and helps take care of our kids (and tells some great stories too). Although these things make life here interesting, satisfying and wonderful, there's still something missing. In fact, there will always be something missing, the family left behind.
Jesus told us to "estimate the cost." He said in Luke 14:25-32 that it's important to really be wise about your decision to be one of His disciples, to make sure it's worth what you might have to leave behind along the way. I think that applies here too. Is it really worth it to serve God here in Ukraine at the cost of being away from family in the States (and Andre's mom in Spain)? The answer, although harder to say now than before kids, is still yes. It is a privilege to serve our Lord here and to see those around us get excited to do the same. Will we always live in Ukraine? I don't know. I don't know what's going to happen tomorrow. What I do know is that while we're here, I want to serve Him to the best of my ability, being thankful for the intermittent visits back to be with family and their visits here to be with us. I love Him, and I want many more people to find that love that is better than gold, silver or anything else. To Him be all the glory.
Don't get me wrong, I love being here in Ukraine. It has all the elements of a great life: a wonderful church, fantastic friends, awesome school and even a grandma who cooks us wonderful treats and helps take care of our kids (and tells some great stories too). Although these things make life here interesting, satisfying and wonderful, there's still something missing. In fact, there will always be something missing, the family left behind.
Jesus told us to "estimate the cost." He said in Luke 14:25-32 that it's important to really be wise about your decision to be one of His disciples, to make sure it's worth what you might have to leave behind along the way. I think that applies here too. Is it really worth it to serve God here in Ukraine at the cost of being away from family in the States (and Andre's mom in Spain)? The answer, although harder to say now than before kids, is still yes. It is a privilege to serve our Lord here and to see those around us get excited to do the same. Will we always live in Ukraine? I don't know. I don't know what's going to happen tomorrow. What I do know is that while we're here, I want to serve Him to the best of my ability, being thankful for the intermittent visits back to be with family and their visits here to be with us. I love Him, and I want many more people to find that love that is better than gold, silver or anything else. To Him be all the glory.
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