Just last Saturday, as in 8 days ago, our team mates got some life changing news. They discovered that a family emergency was calling them home so they could adopt a 9 year old little boy who has had a tough life. Talk about a fearful situation! They were about to become parents of a 9 year old boy....most people have 9 years to prepare for having a 9 year old, now they suddenly have one. And this leaves us feeling quite alone here in Indonesia. Shawn & I were made to walk with team. And when I say team I mean everyone on the team is working toward seeing the SAME GOAL accomplished. So needless to say, we have all been in shock. Our friends are in shock as the idea of the magnitude of the task ahead sinks in. And we are in shock as we see how much their giftings were helpful to us & begin to adjust to living life here without our friends, who felt a little more like family than team-mates.
But then, (oh how I love that phrase. It exudes the power of God to me) in the middle of the chaos I hear Jesus whisper..."In this world you will have trouble, but take heart, I have overcome the world." And then I hear him say, "I will never leave you or forsake you, for I am with you always!"
So in the midst of the swirling emotions, and the LIE that says we are alone & should be afraid, very afraid, we will choose courage. Not because we are strong, but because Jesus is. Not because we are brave, but because Jesus goes before us. Just like the psalmist declared, we know that by our God we can scale a wall. We will believe His words & declare His promises. He who has called us is faithful & He will surely do it. That's the kind courage I want.....the kind that holds onto Jesus and doesn't let fear stop us from moving forward. By the grace of God we will.
