Well, the time has arrived. What was once a far off thought is now becoming reality. We are moving to the city. Tomorrow we will load up a good majority of our things and take it to a storage unit until we figure out what will fit and what needs to go. Then, on Saturday, we will take what is left to our new home. We have spent much of this week painting and cleaning, trying desperately to get everything done. Each day we've been at the house, we have had several knocks on the door from neighborhood kids(one day I had the windows open and I heard someone yell, "CARRIE". A young girl was pointing to my car yelling to everyone that I was home). They come right in and make themselves at home, always looking for something to eat and asking when they can stay the night. It is exciting and a bit overwhelming all at the same time. Stella has already marked her territory in her bedroom. We have decided that her room will be her private cave and only she can invite visitors to enter. We are learning.
My thoughts are a bit jumbled tonight. There have been many emotions and lots of work which leads to a slightly crazy Carrie. In hopes this will help me process, please allow me to list a few things that are running through my head.
1. I want a love for my city. A lady at the park today had a shirt that said, "Love Your City". I want to love my city. I am asking God to give me a love, a supernatural love, for the city of South Bend.
2. I really wish our support was fully raised. With such a busy summer, David and I are so behind in raising support. It is a difficult process, but I am reminded daily that, "when God calls, He provides". He's got our back, we'll keep telling our story.
3. We have WAY to much stuff. As I pack box after box I wonder how we have acquired SO MUCH STUFF. It's time to simplify. Gone are the days of picking up things here and there. There is no room for anything we don't need. Freeedoooom!
4. I'm freaking out a little. When I let my flesh take over I think about safety, privacy, performance, acceptance, time management, Stella's childhood and protection, leaving camp, etc. People have commented a lot lately about how we are stepping out in faith. What I would like to comment back is that this step of faith is not without moments of panic, BUT I am sure that God is in this and He is so faithful. Okay, I'm done living in that spot.
5. I'm really excited. Even in the midst of panic, I have a sense of anticipation of what God is going to do. We are going to be working with great people in a great neighborhood. I'm excited to be part of a team, excited to make relationships with my neighbors, and super excited to see lives changed (mine included).
Many people have asked how they can get involved. Right now there are two ways:
1. Please pray. The next couple of weeks/months will be a time of transition. Some transitions are difficult. With a new culture to learn, a new home, and new norms there will be much to adjust to. We covet your prayers. Will you please pray especially for Stella?
2. Will you come beside us and become a partner in ministry? If you are interested in providing financial support, you can send a check with ACCT. #246 written on the memo line to:
Nappanee Missionary Church
PO Box 110
Nappanee, IN 46550
Thanks for taking time to read my blog.
Carrie
