The Perfect Christian Life?

Do you sometimes come across those people who seem to lead the perfect life? What am I talking about, of course you have. We all have. Different people have different ideas of what the perfect life looks like, but we have all had that longing to live that other person's life. It's so exciting! Or they have an amazing spouse. They can buy the new iPhone 5. They can create a masterpiece with just some glue, string and cardboard. Season tickets, new car, great family, millions of free air miles, fun circle of friends, or my personal favorite, they always seem to have such an intimate relationship with the Lord. Yeah, that's right. I put the ever so cliche spiritual aspect into this post. But I'm just trying to be honest.

I realized some time ago that I was never going to get everything in life that I wanted. I have my own gifts, things I excel in, but I also have imperfections and limitations. Heaven knows that perfect figure only lives in magazines. I'm curvy and I've come to terms with it. When it comes to money or politics, I can only fake intelligence for so long. I'm usually at least a few weeks behind the current news. I can read just fine, but I'm a horrible story teller. I easily get lost when I'm only a few blocks away from home. The only reason I know the sun sets in the West is because I love the beach so much. Things on the top shelf are pretty easy for me to reach, but it becomes awkward when me and my girlfriends want to take that "look at how hot our heels are" pic. I'm no degree of graceful. My complexion can never make up it's mind if it wants to imitate the little Mexican that's in me or the 3/4 of German. I love Christmas music all year round and Sound of Music is one of my favorite movies. If you were to ask my sisters I'm sure they could list off even more imperfections. But please, save me the embarrassment.

But in my short-lived adult life, I have looked longingly on that girl that seems to have it all together. She might not have the best home life. She might not be the prettiest in a group of people and she might not have acquired a doctorate by the time she was 25, but she loves the Lord. You can see it shining on her face every time she posts a picture on Facebook. You can soak up the wisdom from the enriching quotes she takes from her weekly reading. She has passion and desire to serve the Lord in every aspect of her life. She's spread thin from work, ministry, friends and family, but always has time to meet for some encouraging conversation over coffee. HOW DOES SHE DO IT??

I hope you didn't start reading this post hoping to find three steps to a more intimate relationship with the Lord. I don't have the answers! This is a blog about my road through life. This happens to be a rocky point that I'm still working through. I'm imperfect in my life and my faith. I struggle to be intimate with my Savior. I don't always see His hand working in my every day activities. I'm self-serving and impatient. Reading my Bible every day is a struggle. My prayer life can be stale and shallow. God gets crammed into a box with superficial expectations to His abilities. "This is how I want you to work in my life." "This is how I want you to bless me."

Are you asking yourself yet, why I have decided to post about my insecurities and weaknesses? Why not post something encouraging? Why not share how God has grown my faith in the last few weeks in the power of service? The answer is because I have been looked on as that girl who seems to have everything in order. It's easy to fake if you've been a Christian long enough. You have all the right responses tucked away in your pockets. You can string some spiritual words together to make a prayer sound genuine in a public setting. But I'm not perfect. Far from it. And I don't want people looking at my life with a false impression. Is God and His work still the most important thing in my life. Absolutely. Am I in danger of questioning my faith. Absolutely NOT. This is just me in it's rawest form. I don't want people just to see the rose colored aspects of my trip. Things have been amazing and faith building, but I still live with my flesh. It's a daily fight to live righteously and walk humbly with my God.

My hope for those who read this post is not to discourage, but to encourage. EVERYONE struggles in their own way. Even the girl who seems to have it all together with a perfect relationship with God. If you were to look close enough you would find those struggles and insecurities. But it's through those fights with the flesh and with sin that makes us who we are before our God. He gives us different strengths and weaknesses. But it's through the fight and struggle that we become more like our Father. We find our strength in His unending grace and His everlasting desire to forgive. If you are struggling today, discouraged that your life isn't all that you want it to be, know that there is another sister in Christ fighting and struggling as well. But the battle isn't lost. God wins in the end! And we have a cloud of witnesses to encourage and keep us fighting. Please, if you have extra time, look on the verses from Hebrews 12:1-2. It has been such an encouragement to me these last few days. And I'm sure you will gain the same encouragement as you gain strength from our Savior. 

A Bit of the Romantic

I know most of the purpose of this blog is to reveal what God is doing in my life, but it also depicts me as a person. I'm a student, a daughter, a friend, a servant, but I'm also a romantic. That side of me doesn't always show its face. I think it sometimes comes off as cliche, but being here in England where so many literary giants began their work brings the cliche into perspective. The cliche is taken from the fantastical to the historical; from imaginary to reality. Sure the literary writing and characters live in the minds of these great writers, but these great writers lived in the land I now inhabit. I can't help but wonder sometimes if the things I'm experiencing here were inspiration for these great authors.

Take for example, the English countryside: green with rolling hills, spotted white from flocks of sheep. Hedges separate the wide fields. Cows graze. Horses run free.  Most of the time, my view of the sun's setting horizon looks more like a painting than reality. And this is where my imagination is encouraged to drink deeply of what could be. This morning I allowed my imagination to run free in the presence of Miss Jane Austen. I know this post has proven to be much different than the rest, but I beg that you readers stay with me as I allow a peak into another part of what makes me, Me.

Journal Excerpt: The passing countryside allows my period drama day-dreaming take full advantage of my consciousness on my way home. It isn't hard to see Elizabeth Bennett walking through the muddy hillside on her way to Netherfield Park. She knows her appearance isn't up to the standards of the Bingley sisters, but her free spirit allows her to have a complacent attitude. She can't wait to see Jane. But she also knows she will have to endure the company of Mr. Darcy, who hasn't proven to be an advantageous friend. Still, she has caught his gaze and felt his eyes on her since their last gathering. It is unnerving, but her curiosity forces her to find out more about him. As she walks along, her thoughts might be broken by the sight of Marianne Dashwood on the crest of a hill staring down on Willaby's estate. Her cheeks are aglow from her climb, which makes her face even more radiant as she stands there imagining her life as the mistress of the fine home only a few feet below. If only she could foresee the tragedy looming ahead. But perhaps it would only kindle her passion as love cannot be warranted without heartbreak. Emma Woodhouse wouldn't be seen outdoors on a day like this. She wouldn't think to tempt her father's anxiety over the chilly weather outside. He would be so unapproving it would break her heart. But I can just see her settled inside the house, next to her father and a nice warm fire, trying to interest herself in the newest novel of her unfinished library of books. I imagine she will soon pick up the puppy drawing she started last week. That is, if Mr. Knightly doesn't grace her with a visitation, which would prove a worthy distraction. 

Unfortunately, I don't know the stories of Persuasion and Mansfield Park as much as I'd like to include them in my imaginary montage. But seeing that all of Miss Austen's heroines had their own sense of frivolity and independence I can only conclude that Fanny Price and Anne Elliote would make some sort of appearance on my train ride home. Northhanger Abbey doesn't even claim a remembrance of character so I'm afraid the heroine of that novel will have to remain concealed in the world of Miss Austen's imaginings. Lucky her.

Reverent Fear: It's a Kick in the Pants

"7By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household." - Hebrews 11

I know I have talked a lot of my love-hate relationship with this blog. But I have come to realize that it's another source of accountability during this journey. And we all know most of our takes on accountability. It's not always welcomed with ease, but it is recognized as a necessity. LOVE-HATE epitomized. 

With that said, this post comes out of humble recognition for my need of accountability. I write to you, friends and family, with the utmost transparency. I have been at a crossroads ever since reaching England. Fighting the urge to become complacent with my surroundings, I often find myself being pulled in two different directions. The comfortable road or the challenging one. After several stretching months of ministry the comfortable road of complacency is hard to resist. I must admit there have been days where I have weakened to this temptation. But God is ever present and continually pushing me to face my challenges. He has been the only constant in my journey. Ever since that day last May when I decided to take this trip, He has been the one pushing me forward. The reverent fear that Noah experienced in the opening verse, I experienced that day on the beach. As I sat on the sand, watching the sun set, I knew out of reverence for my God that I was to travel abroad. 

It is interesting that it was out of my reverence for God that pushed me to my decision. I don't think my love for him was strong enough to serve as my motivation. God had to push me to fear Him; to revere His sovereignty. But that reverence brought even more love for my God, my Provider, my Leader. Through reverent fear Noah saved his household. My life of complacency was saved in equal manner. This is my reminder. This is my kick in the pants.

Let Brotherly Love Continue

I take in the new view from my bedroom window. The bus stop outside is only frequented by one or two people at any given time. Hagley Road is a busy street, but the constant English rain keeps the people indoors. There is a beautiful park that faces the little flat where I'm staying with Drew and Michelle. It has replaced my old view of dorm rooms with its loud inhabitants. I no longer hear the thunder of lightening with the passing storm. It's been replaced with the constant hum of rain pouring down on the street outside. Waking up to sun casting light through my window has become a precious rarity. Instead I wake up to Victoria Rose peering at me through the slates of her crib. She clings to her blanky with one hand as she sucks her thumb with the other.

The days are no longer filled with English lessons and impromptu pizza runs. Evenings no longer hold student activities or prayer meetings. Dear friends are now a Skype call away instead of a five minute walk down the hill. Intimate conversations have been replaced with introductions and the exchange of pleasantries. Familiar bursts of group laughter from the next room are no longer distinguishable. Life has again become foreign.

BUT "let brotherly love continue." These words jump out from the pages of Hebrews where I have been spending my quiet time for the last few months. They resound in my head like a deafening call. I read on... "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and tomorrow." HE is the same even if my surroundings are not. I can feel my heart crying for the familiarity of yesterday, but God calls me to the responsibilities of today. Tomorrow will bring more change, but God calls me to nevertheless let brotherly love continue. All of the first meetings and pleasantries I have exchanged are all part of God's plan. They may seem to me as strangers, but to God they are tools. They play an important and precious part in my life for the next four months.

As I struggle through these first encounters and waves of culture shock, God guides me through His promise. He never changes. His will is constant. I can have peace because He has laid out every single detail of my life before me. Every bump in the road has a purpose. Every hurdle is an opportunity for me to grow deeper in my love for Him and more constant in my faith.

This blog is appropriately called On a Mission. When I first envisioned what this blog would communicate, I saw a mission filled with new culture and ministry. I saw the world around me changing for all to see. I saw a testimony of obedience that would speak to friends and family.  I envisioned new life experiences that would expand my worldview and increase my knowledge. My future would finally become clear. God would set my path, leading to a form of ministry for Gospel hungry people. But I was blinded by the tangible work in front of me. I was deceived by my own haughty expectations. This mission is not about a collection of experiences to include on a spiritual resume. The mission itself is ME.

If I take a step back and look at the last six months, I see a lot of experiences, a lot of travel. When I look forward to the next six months I see more experiences and more travel. But then what? Do I just carry it around with me so I can relay my stories to others? Does it just end with story telling? No, because that doesn't lead to action. All the experiences in the world doesn't do anyone any good if they don't allow God to work inside them first. If they don't allow God to use their experiences to mold them more in His image then there will be no real change. This trip has shown me that God is changing me as a person, not adding countries to my passport. He is molding ME into the path I'm going to take in the future. I am the path. It's not a collection of people, places and things. It's just me. I don't know where I will be when I get home in six months. But I know I'm not going to step off that plane the same person as I left. And because of that God will use me in His divined will.

So let brotherly love continue no matter where I might be.No matter who I might be ministering with. Let my faith hold fast to the knowledge that God is the same and He will never leave me or forsake me.  The perfecting of my faith has taken another notch of carving into my identity with Christ. To Him be the glory. 

A Week of Firsts

There have been a lot of firsts for me in the last couple of days. I went motorcar racing this week with a bunch of friends from In-life. HELLO! Friends from home, why haven't we done this?! I ended up racing twice, it was so much fun. But because of my competitive nature I also ended up betting one of the most experienced drivers that I would be able to keep up with him on the track... sometimes my big mouth gets me into trouble. I don't know what I was thinking. This guy has been racing motorcars since he was 10 and owns his own motorcycle. But I bet him anyways. If I won then he had to give me a ride on his motorcycle. If he won, I had to bake him some cookies. I figured, if I was going to lose I would at least get to eat some cookie dough (my chocolate chip cookies have been a big hit here).

The first run Laco was a gentleman and allowed me to race ahead of him to start off. But it wasn't long before he butted into my lane and sped away ahead of me. He was half way around the track before I had time to blink. I got a rhythm on the track about half way into it. I figured out when to push down on the gas all the way through a turn and when to balance the gas and break to get around the tighter corners. I learned that fish tailing is fun, but it slows you down. At the end of the race I was proud to find out I didn't finish last! My adrenaline was pumping and I was ready to get back out on the track to better my lap time. I didn't care that my hands and forearms were shaking uncontrollably from holding the wheel so tightly.

An hour later I was racing again. This time I knew the track and my opponents. We all sped off, hitting the gas as hard as we could around the turn. I was able to keep two guys behind me past the first turn.  Three tight turns were coming up, and I knew they would have to hang back until we got through them. I tried to hit the turns as smoothly as I could. Success! I passed one car and was able to keep most of the others behind me. My friend Katka and I battled it out on the next lap. She nearly caused me to crash, but I creeped by her on the inside track. I had a couple frustrated drivers behind me for the rest of the race. They pushed and shoved, but somehow I was able to keep my lead. I finished with a faster lap time, AND with the triumph that Laco wasn't able to pass me on the track. There was a motorcycle ride in my future.

Today was a beautiful day for a motorcycle ride. It was warm and sunny with big, white, puffy clouds that sprinkled the blue sky with magnificent contrast. By the time Laco and I set off the sun was setting. It was that beautiful orange hue that made the green leaves of the trees glow with warmth. Laco went slowly at first, being considerate of the fact that it was my first time on a motorcycle. But as we got out of the city's main streets and onto the winding roads of the countryside he leaned into his handle bars and picked up speed. As I lavished the thrill of racing up and down roads and around corners, I took in the green, rolling hills stretched out on either side of me. We stopped twice. First, at a race track to watch the "experienced" riders at work. Then again as we passed the dam on our way back. We stood by the bank watching hot air balloons stretch across the water.

I think Laco could sense my confidence growing on the bike because we got back to the office quite quickly from the dam. The motorcycle ride seemed to finish before it started, but it's an afternoon that I will always remember. Laco, if you're reading this thank you again for such a great ride. And don't worry, I intend to keep my end of the deal. 

Playing Charades

Charades is a great game. Especially if you play it with people that are willing to risk looking a little foolish to have a bit of fun. Masters of the game know how to contort their bodies and faces into inhuman positions in attempt to resemble whatever it is that is written on their card. The expectant teammates frantically yell out words hoping that one of them will lead to the right answer. Thrill and excitement ensues when someone guesses correctly and part of the puzzle is solved. "Ok, second word... sounds like..." and the game carries on!

When you are prohibited from speaking, communication suddenly becomes a whole different exercise. Have you ever thought what life would be like if communication was limited to hand gestures and a few befuddled noises? Those of you who have ever struggled with language barriers know exactly what I'm talking about. The few words that you know become your lifelines in trying to express the other ten words you want to communicate. When a person talks you have to listen carefully for any fraction of a word that sounds familiar. You focus on hand gestures and body language. A quick roll of the eyes or a slight movement of the hand could give you a clue to the puzzle.

Over the last four months I have become very good at playing this game. I play it constantly when my Czech friends try to explain a new English word to me. They start gesturing with their hands trying to form it's shape in midair. I begin to laugh when they make noises in attempt to imitate its sound. "It's about this big... it has feathers... and sounds like a dying cat..." "Peacock!"

I've noticed the more I play the game the better my observational skills become. I love observing my friends while they are having a conversation in Czech. As I stand by and watch, I can usually figure out what they're talking about. I then love joining the conversation just to see the look on their faces. They stand there looking at me, eyes wide and jaws dropped to the floor. I just look back at them with a playful smile. They now like to test me in my understanding. Just a few days ago I stood in the dining room and observed several people having different discussions around me. After everyone was done talking a friend turned to me and asked what I thought they had talked about. I went from one person to the next describing everyone's conversation. They laughed in amusement and told me to keep up the good work.

I wish God was just as easy to read...

I sometimes see my relationship with God as a big game of Charades. I'm waiting to catch a glimpse of a hand gesture, a flicker of the eye, anything that tells me what direction He has laid out for me. He has given me plenty of signs, I just need to look for them. Exhilaration comes when He gives me confirmation of a right decision. But brokenness is felt when I realize I have made a wrong one.

Bumps in the road are equally hard to face. They might not always be a wrong decision, but it's still hard to accept God's change in direction. I had to face this just last week. God has changed my direction for this trip in a big way. I will be spending four months in England starting in July, and spending less time in Greece. England was nowhere in my plans before I left, but it's now written on my itinerary in bold letters. But God has taught me that with every bad decision and every bump in the road, He is still leading me in the right direction.

God had to take me through the process of accepting this redirection, and it was a bit painful. My sin was unearthed, and I was forced to face it's ugly head with my eyes wide open. There is nothing worse than admitting sin that you have tried hiding behind righteous motives. "I am serving you, Lord. Why can't you let me serve you where I want, and in the way I want?"

While dealing with my sin, I was reminded of a sermon I heard once that was about how we love God. The pastor made a point that I haven't been able to forget. Why do we always try to love God the way we want to be loved? It is like a wife trying to love her husband by sending him a bouquet of her favorite flowers and a box of her favorite chocolates. It sounds ridiculous, but we somehow think we can love God that way. "God, I know the Bible tells me that You are shown love in obedience, but how about I serve a few extra hours in the church instead?" Just as a wife must learn and understand how her husband wants to be loved we must learn how God wants to be loved. That is how we can show Him our true devotion.

I had to recognize my own self-righteousness last week, and love God in obedience. But you know what? God has mercifully given me joy in His new plan. Because that's what it really is. It's His plan. I am merely a traveller on His road. If He wants to take a hard right then I know it's for my own good. I just have to choose to love Him enough to take the turn with Him. 

Journal Excerpt

People sometimes say that a blog is just an online journal. I have to agree to a point, but I'm sure it doesn't come as a surprise that I don't share everything on this blog. But I've decided to give you a little excerpt today...


Wednesday, April 25, 2012:


As I'm sitting here on a small beach, I look out over the Aegean Sea and am amazed at how unreal the beauty of this day seems. The beach is a narrow stretch of tiny rocks, pretending to be sand, that disappears in places around Port Taylor. Along the rocky cutouts of the shoreline grow magnificent purple wildflowers. There are no waves on this clear calm day in the harbor, but the rhythm of the water lapping onto the shore brings nourishment to my expectant soul. 


The water ripples along the aqua blue peninsula in trained succession. It looks as though it's taking a leisurely stroll around the shore, watching people sun bathing, drinking coffee at beach-front cafes or having lunch on the deck of the local seafood restaurant. Fotis and Mary will be coming soon to meet me for lunch at such a restaurant. They say there is something special about Greek seafood. We will see...


Lunch was FANTASTIC: fresh calamari, shrimp, octopus, and some kind of squid. I'm sorry if I'm making some of you turn green, but I'm in Greece. You have to expect me to talk about seafood. There was also some fresh salad and bread in there somewhere ;)

I'm only half way through my trip, so I'm not going to give a full synopsis of it yet, but I thought a little teaser would keep some of you satisfied until I have time for a full post later next week. Just in case you haven't been on Facebook, here are a couple pics from the great city of Athens!

An Afternoon with Jana

So far, I have posted a lot about what I’m doing here, the places I have gone and the things I have learned. But today I would like to share a little bit about a friend I have made. Her name is Jana (Yana). 

Jana and I get along really well. She was one of the first people I met at the ski trip when I first arrived in Brno. Her sweet, bubbly personality caught my eye immediately. Everyone seemed to love her and I couldn’t wait to get to know her better. We had a few opportunities to talk at the ski retreat where I was introduced to her sensitive and caring nature. 

We soon learned that we shared a youthful quality. We like to giggle. We giggle like little girls whenever we see each other. All Jana has to do is look at me a certain way and we both break out laughing with childish glee. I don’t know what it is about Jana, but the sun always shines a little brighter when she smiles. I love to spend time with her. Even though she is a few years older than me, I know I have found a kindred spirit that also shares my 12 year old soul. 

I forgot to mention that Jana is one of my English students. And she speaks very little English. But somehow we have learned how to read each other’s mind. We laugh when I complete all of her sentences. When she can’t communicate her thoughts into words, she will usually break out into a game of charades making sounds and gesturing with her hands. After a few minutes of her frantically waving her arms and pointing to object in the room I confess that I knew what she was talking about the whole time, but I just wanted to see how well she could play our game. Then the laughing starts up all over again. 

Jana has taught me a lot. She cares for people far more than she cares for herself. Her eyes light up when she asks me about my weekend, even if all I did was spend every day sitting in my dorm room. She makes me feel like hearing about my boring weekend is the most interesting thing she has heard all day. God has greatly gifted her with a care and passion for people. She might not always understand the words I say, but she can understand their meaning. I remember the first words she said to me were, “I’m sorry, my English is not good. But my name is Jana.” Somehow I knew then that there was something special about her. 

This afternoon, Jana and I had English class. Instead of sitting in a gloomy room, we decided to go into the center and do some shopping. Jana had some errands to run and I was ready to get outside in the sunshine. I quickly revised my “lesson” to learning new vocabulary and proposed the plan to Jana. Her eyes lit up and she said, “Yes! What good idea!” As we walked out the front doors of the office, the warm rays of the sun were ready and waiting to meet us. But the cool spring breeze kept them in a comfortable balance. 

We rode the two trams to the center and Jana led me around the cobblestone streets and alleyways to her favorite craft shops. She loves to do crafts, and today she was buying supplies to make beautiful organza flowers that could be used as pins for your clothes or for your hair. As we walked through the shops, we practiced all her vocabulary: beads, chains, clasps, stones, thread, yarn, and on and on. At each store, we had to stop and admire everything lavender. It’s Jana’s favorite color and she’s yet to find something lavender that doesn’t bring more joy to her life. 

As the church bells rang, we strolled through the farmer’s market. We admired all the fresh herbs, fruit, nuts, vegetables and flowers the vendors were selling. Everything smelled fresh and juicy. The air was full of spring. We walked down another alley that lead to one of Jana’s favorite stores. It’s called Dominica’s Place. Inside the tucked away store were beautiful vintage place settings, candle holders, clocks, wooden boxes lanterns and much more. It looked like the store could have come straight out of a magazine. The spiral staircase in the back corner showcased a decorative place setting complete with ornamental duck figurines. It took little effort to imagine a fantastical, candlelit, garden party under a canopy of stars in this quaint little shop. As we left, we both sighed with the desire to stay in our dreamland. 

No afternoon spent in the center would be complete without ice cream. Actually, most of what they have here in Brno is gelato. But you won’t hear me complaining. As expected I got chocolate and Jana took swirl. We walked and licked. We licked and talked. And as we headed back to the office, I had to suppress the urge to start skipping along the sidewalk as if we were two grade school girls on summer vacation. 

I hope to spend more afternoons like this with Jana. Life always becomes a little fuller and the day is a little brighter. If only I could put her in my pocket and take her with me wherever I go. I know you all would love to meet her :)

Sweet Silence

Hello dear readers,

I sometimes sit here and wonder how many of you are out there? Twenty, maybe twenty-one? But then one of two things happen... either I get depressed thinking there might be only five people who read my blog. Or I get terrified thinking there might be hundreds of people I don't know reading my blog, and that now know all of these personal things about me. Ridiculous, I know, which is why I've stopped thinking about it. So, I'm just going to pretend we're all close friends and we're sitting down for a cup of coffee...

Do you want to know what happened last week? Good, because I'm going to tell you anyways. This conversation is going to be one-sided. If you want to share what you did last week, you'll have to go start your own blog. This one has my name on it ;)

Charlie

Spring has finally sprung! The world outside is starting to turn several shades of green. I attempt to take a walk every day. I wander the neighborhood that surrounds the dormitory where I live. I live on the side of a hill so I get a good workout walking up and down the streets. On one of my walks a couple of weeks ago, I met a new friend. He's a beautiful dog that I've named Charlie. As I walked by his house, he jumped up next to the gate wagging his tail. I stopped and tried petting his furry back through the holes in the gate. He got excited and started nipping at my fingers playfully. As I began to walk away he started barking in disappointment. I walked back, gave hime one last pat on the head and promised to visit another day. However, the next time I walked by Charlie was accompanied by another dog that looked just like him. This new friend was not very friendly. He started barking at me as soon as I came close to the gate. I decided he wouldn't get a name until he becomes a little nicer. We are still working things out.

Pilgrimage Church of St. John

Just in case you are beginning to worry that my only friends are animals I meet on the street, I have made a lot of human friends too. I got to spend a lot of time with them this weekend at a retreat In-Life held for the believers in the cities of Brno and Prague. We stayed at a facility in the "Highlands" about an hour North of Brno. There is some beautiful country up there! We took a short walk to an old, beautiful church that sat on a hill overlooking the town. It was rainy that day, but the church and it's views were still breathtaking. The church is one of 192 sites protected and preserved by UNESCO. If you don't know what that is, go look it up.

The retreat was spent in sweet fellowship with fellow believers. The time was refreshing and re-energizing. I met new people, and got to know others better. I think the most significant thing I walked away with was a deeper understanding of time spent with God. Let me explain...

In the past, my understanding of time spent with God was always active. I pray, work through different issues in my life, and read my Bible. These things aren't wrong, and I definitely should be doing them. But I learned this weekend that time can be spent with God I'm complete silence; no words, no thoughts, no sounds. Just time spent recognizing God is present. God and I went for a peaceful walk together on Friday night. As I stumbled throughout the dark I found a path that ran next to the river which flowed through town. We walked up and down the path just appreciating each other's company. We found a bridge that crossed the river, and we sat watching a flock of ducks settle into their nests for the night. It was an amazing time that brought me closer to the One I love. I didn't have to be pouring out my heart, or learning a new truth from His Word. I was just there with Him enjoying the cold beauty of the evening.

The rest of the weekend was just as impactful. We learned how to better communicate with God. I think this helped in teaching us how then to better communicate with others. I was sad to see the weekend end. But a friend wisely told me it's better for a thing to end with you wanting for more than for it to overstay its welcome.

I want to leave you with this same feeling as I end this post. It is over for now, but more is coming...

The "American" Smile

I learned this week that there is such a thing as an "American" smile in the Czech Republic. I discovered this a few days ago when I met a girl at a cafe. She was very interested in my life in California and asked me a lot of questions. All of a sudden, she burst out, "You have to show us your American smile!" I thought she was joking at first so I laughed. But then I realized she was serious. She and the other four people sitting at the table were staring at me intently, waiting for me to show them my American smile... I didn't know what to do next. I told them I had no idea how an American smile was different from a regular smile. They explained to me that Americans always wear a big smile and show their teeth in pictures, even if they aren't happy. It's fake and looks forced.

After I thought about it, I realized she was right. We do force a smile every time a picture is taken. It doesn't matter if we're at a wedding or a funeral. We wear the same smile. It made me question if we fake more than just a smile. I think the idea that we always have to seem happy or content in life is a big part of the American culture. We also don't like to admit our weaknesses. We are Americans. We are strong and  proud. Weakness only leads to failure.  

I was talking with a friend today for a long time about this topic of weaknesses. He is on staff here at In-Life and attends my student conversational class on Thursday afternoons. We were discussing yesterday's class when I admitted to him that I didn't feel confident in my teaching that day. I had my lesson plan prepared and printed out in front of me, but I still felt lost. I couldn't find a direction for the discussion to go. I told him how discouraged I was feeling after class when a student came up to me and enthusiastically told me how much she enjoyed the class that day. What? I couldn't believe it! But even more people came up to me afterwards expressing how much they enjoyed the topic and discussion. As I look back on it today, with new perspective, God was hard at work through my apparent weaknesses. More fruit came from yesterday's class than from all the previous classes.

Why does God work that way? Why doesn't He work through the days that I am feeling confident and strong? I don't want to imply here that I have all the answers to these questions, and I do believe God works through our strengths. But God showed me this week that weaknesses aren't a sign of defeat. They are a tool. A verse automatically came to mind while I was thinking this through. It comes from 1 Corinthians 1:27 and it says, "But God chose what is foolish in this world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong." Now, I am not saying that we should accept our weaknesses as a part of our personality and not work toward fighting against them. The Bible also tells us to become more like Christ; to continually sanctify our life in preparation for His second coming. But it clearly states in the verse above that God chooses to work through our weaknesses.

There has been more evidence of this in my life in the past 6 months than I'd like to admit. God has had to work through more of my weaknesses than through my strengths. But through this I have grown so much closer to Him. He has taught me so much about myself. His power is shown so much greater in my weakness than in my strength. And this trip has been all about God's power! But an even sweeter discovery came in realizing that through God's strength, we are shown strong. People see God through us. We become God's example for other people. Just like in class yesterday, I was feeling discouraged and disappointed. But no one saw that. All they could see was the strength God gave me to instruct the class in a successful manner. We still shine because God shines. And that is when it has the most impact both in our lives and in other people.

I hope that all made sense! Sometimes the thoughts in my head make sense to me, but they don't come out so clear to other people. I have been very enriched this past week through what God has been teaching me. I'm really looking forward to next week too! An American missionary is coming to Brno to give a lecture on communication with God. The people here at In-Life say he is an excellent speaker and always gives interesting lectures. He has kept a great relationship with the people here for many years. I will also be going to a retreat next weekend with the fellow believers here. I am looking forward to getting away and spending some intimate time of fellowship with these new friends.

God continues to put people at home on my heart. I think and pray for you often. I know the people at Crossroads are gearing up for the big Easter celebration! Know that I will be with you all in spirit that day and will be praying it gives you opportunity to reach more in Santa Clarita. Here's hoping for 2000 more people to show up next year! My family has especially been on my heart this week. There have been times here that I've had the opportunity to meet other's family members. It aches my heart to know I can't  introduce my own family and have them along on my adventures. I miss you Mom, Dad, Pooper, Fatty and Baby Girl!

I will write again soon :)

Rachel

JOY

Last week I taught a conversational English class to a group of eleven students. The topic was life fulfillment. What is fulfillment? Where do people find fulfillment? Can ultimate fulfillment in life be reached? As I prepared the lesson, I was forced to ask myself these same questions. Being a Christian, I could easily and robotically respond with, "Christ is my ultimate fulfillment". But stating a quick response is much easier than having to explain and reinforce my beliefs in front of a class of atheistic students. Could I stand in front of them with my beliefs and have no secret doubts of it's truth in my life? 

I now ask you these same questions that have been running through my head the last few days. What is fulfillment? Where do you find fulfillment? I hope it forces you to soul search just as it has me. 

During the class discussion one very interesting conversation was started about the meaning of joy. One student said that ultimate fulfillment is finding complete joy in something. Another student argued that joy was the same as happiness, an emotion that comes and goes with the tide. This student then proposed that ultimate fulfillment could never be reached. As long as you are alive, you will always be in want for something. Happiness is only temporary. I have to agree that happiness is a temporary emotion. It is dependent on surrounding elements that make up life at the time. But JOY, joy is something different. 

I believe joy is a state of being, not an emotion. I believe you make a decision to be joyful the instant you accept Christ into your life. With Christ as your Savior, God as your Father and the Holy Spirit as your guide, in what other way can you express your new, perfect and holy state? Complete joy is what bursts forth from a renewed spirit. That is what I call finding ultimate fulfillment. Does this mean that I never have a bad day; that I walk around with a smile on my face all the time? Absolutely not. But what it does mean, is that through the rough days, through the trials, and through the disappointments, I can find joy. There isn't a bad day or a heavy emotion that can change my eternal future in heaven with my God. 

These last few days have been emotionally draining. God has had to show me that following His will is not a promise of an easy road. Each step is a step of faith; a test of my dependence on Him. Even though happiness has not defined my last few days, joy has. I can say with complete sincerity that God is my true fulfillment and my joy. The challenge now is can others see this joy no matter what emotion has taken over? My desire and my prayer is that they can. 

I'll write again soon,

Rachel

Where Do the Hours Go?

Have you ever sat down to work at 9 AM, and then five minutes later realized it was 5 PM! Where does the time go?? If anyone has an idea, Facebook me later. I'd like to know where the last 3 days of my life went. I'm sure I'm not the only one who has experienced this. Usually, I'm the last person to find out about things, so I wouldn't be surprised if people have been looking for the lost hours of their day for years now.

I have a vague idea of the sequence of events from the past few days. I know I did some teaching. Whether anything was actually learned is something you will have to ask my students. It's a good thing there is a great, big ocean between us. No one will ever know!

I was able to spend a lot of time with people last week. I am finding friends with common interests, but I'm also discovering new interests from the time spent with my new friends. Tonight I made "something" from sticking a needle into a piece of wool over and over again. I have included a picture of it for your viewing pleasure. There is a word for this certain kind of craft in Czech, but I have already forgotten it. The Czech language is a bit hard to get used to. I have to hear a word at least 5 times before I have a good grasp of it.

The people here are getting to know me pretty well too. I have two students who bring me an offering of dark chocolate before every class. In exchange, I tell them they are some of my most advanced students. I've learned that guys tend to behave better when they feel superior so it's a win-win situation. But I must be gaining some kind of reputation because I have also received Oreos, cake and hot chocolate all in the last 48 hours! I'm glad Spring is just around the corner because I need to start working off all this sugar.

I can't wait until it's warm enough to tour more of this beautiful city and the surrounding country. I've been told of so many amazing places that I want to visit; the streets of Prague, towers made of sand rock, castles full of history, and much more. Yes, be jealous! But what I have enjoyed the most is becoming a working part of the In-Life ministry. Their influence reaches out to 5 other cities in the Czech Republic and also across it's borders to Slovakia. All it's ministry staff and volunteers have one common goal, to reach the students in the universities with the Gospel. They hold weekly events that provide them with a chance to connect with unbelieving students. They also provide Bible studies and discipleship groups for the believers involved in the ministry. Through it's many working parts God has reached hundreds of students over the years. Many In-Life alumni have moved on to start churches and other evangelical based ministries.

I get to play a very important role as a native-speaking English teacher. English classes are provided in school and even offered as a course of study in the Universities. But there aren't a lot of native-speaking English teachers available to teach correct pronunciation and conversational English. That's where I come in :) Starting tomorrow, I will be teaching a 10-week conversational English course to university students in Brno. The hope is that through these classes, more students will become involved in the In-Life activities. The more new contacts are made, the more hearts are won for Christ! It's a tremendous privilege to be able to serve alongside In-Life in this way, but it also carries a lot of responsibility. Please, pray for me over these next ten weeks as I prepare each of my lessons. Pray that God will be able to work through my insecurities and weaknesses, and that the testimony of God's grace and truth might shine through.

We worship an all knowing and sovereign God. May He be praised above all else!

Thanks for reading and I will write again soon,

Rachel

Oreos, Peanut Butter and Prune Juice

Sometimes, it's the little things in life...

Last week when I was traveling to Ostrava, I happened to see an advertisement for Oreos. I was in the middle of a conversation with a friend, when I suddenly yelled out "Oreos"! My poor friend was so startled she started looking in every direction for the object cause of my disruption. I had to tell her that embarrassingly enough, my excitement was over a cookie. But it was the best cookie in the world! Milk's best friend!

I was now on a mission to hunt down the Oreos in Brno. It took me a few days, but I found them! They were a bit expensive so I decided to wait to buy them until I was really desperate. Then a couple of days ago I was at a party and what did I find waiting for me in the middle of the snack table... Oreos! I thought this had to be a direct gift from God so I greedily took some. Those had to be the best Oreos I ever had.

I have come to realize that Peanut butter is a traditional American product that is very foreign to most other cultures. When I was visiting India, found out the people hated it. They didn't have anything similar to it so they rejected it completely. In Brno, people compare it to Nutella, but they still aren't the biggest fans of it. When I went to the grocery store for the first time it took me 20 minutes just to find the one brand of peanut butter the store sold. The jar was half the size you would find in the States, but they still sold it for the same price as a jar double the size. I thought it was worth buying since I could eat it with so many things.

The next day I walked into the ministry office with my apple and peanut butter snack. When I sat down to enjoy my delicious food I got some very curious looks from the other people in the office. Peanut butter with fruit? They asked me what other things I ate with peanut butter. As I began to tell them, their faces became more disgusted with every item I added to the list.... celery, pancakes, chocolate, Oreos! Peanut butter with jelly... on bread? I realized I would have to introduce this Czech ministry to the amazing world of salty-sweet snacks.

Since I was a little girl, I have known the affects that come with drinking prune juice. Grandma and Grandpa always had a good stock of it in the refrigerator, but it was never meant for every day use. You only had prune juice when you were "sick". I found out this past week that not everybody grows up with this knowledge.

While at a restaurant with a friend, we were deciding what kind of crepe to order for dessert. When she suggested we order the crepe with prunes I gave her an uncertain look. Prunes? Right before we are about to take a long trip back home? She looked confused so I began explaining the consequences that came with eating prunes. I watched her face as it broke out into complete laughter and disbelief. Through our laughter and tears, I finally convinced her to order the strawberry crepe instead... just to be on the safe side.

There are certain things that bring me comfort when I start to miss home. I Skype with friends and look at new baby pictures on Facebook. I re-read emails with news about life back in the Sunny State. But sometimes it's the Oreos, peanut butter and prune juice that can make me feel a little closer to home. 

Ostrava

As promised, here is the story of my trip to Ostrava.

I learned a lot about the city that day. It is the third largest in the country; Prague and Brno being the first two. It is a city of industry. All day long, people kept apologizing for the bad air quality. I reassured them that being from LA had given my lungs plenty of experience with bad air quality.

The day started out early. Our train left the station at 8:45 AM which meant I had to catch a tram at 8:25 AM. Since I am a new user of public transportation I assumed that if the tram schedule said it would be at the station at 8:25 AM I could get there at 8:25 AM. WRONG! At 8:24 AM I watched my tram disappear down the street as I ran down the hill. This was a good preview for what the rest of the day would hold. So we were already running ten minutes late, but thankfully tram drivers tend to drive a little faster on Saturdays so we made good time getting to the train station.

We got on the train and found our seats with no problems. I travelled with 8 other people that day and I enjoyed getting to know them better on our 2 1/2 hour train ride. We had a great time talking and laughing about English words and idioms. I taught them three new English words: dachshund, badger and dentures. About an hour into the trip our train made an extra-long stop at a station. It wasn't until after we had been stopped for a half hour that a lady came to tell us the train had broken down and we would be taking buses to the next train station. She told us she would return to get us when the buses had arrived. Twenty minutes later we watched everyone get off the train and realized the lady had forgotten about us.

So we joined the mass of people headed to the buses. Unfortunately, two buses was not enough to take everyone to the next station so our group had to wait for a third bus to come. Our bus finally arrived and we all piled on. Packed like sardines, we sat there waiting for the bus to move. I guess it was a good thing it didn't leave right away because a mother from one of the back rows started asking everyone to get off the bus so her 4-year-old daughter could go to the bathroom. So, back off we went and then right back on. It was somehow harder to fit everyone in the second time, but we managed it.

Finally, our bus left and headed to the next station. We arrived and noticed the train to Ostrava was not on the departures list. People flooded the information window to find out what had happened. Even though I couldn't understand what was being said, I could tell that people weren't happy. I found out soon enough that the train to Ostrava had left without us. The next train was scheduled to arrive in 45 minutes.

That's how life goes sometimes! So our 2 1/2 hour trip turned into 5, but when you're with friends, it makes things more fun! We finally arrived in Ostrava around 1 PM and headed to a friends house where lunch was waiting. That's where I met Litga. She is an In-Life Staff member working in Ostrava. She doesn't speak much English, but she has a warm smile and a bubbly personality. Litga took us to a small historical museum where we learned about the city's coal mining days. The museum was actually two rooms in a man's house that he had converted into a museum to display his collection of historical items. It was very interesting to look at pictures of when the city was still under communism. Things were much different.

After the museum, Litga took us to a French Cafe for dinner. I laughed to myself that we were the only people brave enough to venture outside on that freezing, Saturday afternoon. I got to see a lot of the city, but not many of it's people. The city was beautiful with it's cobblestone streets and old fashioned lamp stands. The buildings hold historical character through it's magnificent architecture. I would have taken pictures, but my hands had to stay safely in my pockets where it was warm.

This concludes my adventure to Ostrava. I hope you enjoyed reading about it!

Mondays...

I've noticed something. It doesn't matter where I go, Mondays are always the same. It's somehow harder to wake up in the morning. My feet seem to wear 10 lb. weights on them. And the events of the week ahead are always overwhelming. It doesn't help that today is dreary with little chance of snow. If it's going to be overcast, you think it would be courteous enough to snow. Make my day a little bit brighter with a fresh, white blanket to drape over the overwhelmingly, grey world outside. I'm sorry if I sound a bit less than cheerful... but it's Monday.

Veveri Castle 

I do have a couple stories to entertain you with this week. The first happened the day after I wrote about my boring life. I think God wanted to brighten up my mood with a bit of irony. So on Tuesday night I decided to go to the grocery store by myself. To understand how big of a venture this was, you must know that the use of public transportation is a new thing for me. I am having to learn bus numbers, tram numbers and the names of their stops along the way. Trying to read a map with small letters isn't very easy. Adding on that the map is in Czech, you can better understand my situation. However, I convinced myself that I had been in the city long enough and could get myself to the grocery store and back without any problems.

So, off I go at 6:30 pm. I figure it will take me an hour and a half, which would get me home at a safe time at night. This is where I make my first mistake. I don't allow time for me to make any mistakes! Mistake number two: I didn't read all the directions. I consult my map and hop on my first tram. It's the wrong one. Of course, I don't know I am on the wrong tram until I see myself passing the grocery store, headed in the opposite direction.

Late Sunday afternoon

Mistake number three: I haven't started learning Czech. Once I realized I was on the wrong tram I knew I had to get off and go back to where I started. As I stood to get off the tram I realized the doors are not opening. Almost immediately, I have everyone on the tram trying to tell me in Czech how to open the doors. I figure it out amidst the yelling and get the doors open. But apparently I didn't get off fast enough because the doors of the tram closed on me before I was safely through them. I am sure I brightened the day of a few Czech travelers by affirming all Americans are ignorant.

Mistake number four: Letting fear overcome rational thinking. Once I get off the tram I realized how dark the station was and that it was right next to a cemetery! I immediately become anxious and nervously wait for the next tram to take me back. It finally appears and I hop on. I'm feeling better at this point as I head back to what's familiar. However, my confidence evaporates when I watch the grocery store disappear out the window as I head in the wrong direction once again. I am on another wrong tram.

Aja enjoying the sunset

This time, I said a little prayer before consulting my Czech map. I got off the tram, read the signs thoroughly and got on my final tram of the evening. I breathed a sigh of relief when it stopped right in front of the store. Shopping was a whole other adventure. I have a new found gratitude for picture labels.  I am happy to say that I made it home on the first attempt. The silver lining from the evening is that I now know the general destinations of trams 1, 2, 5, 6, 7 & 8! Only ten more trams to go!

I had a pretty full weekend. I took a trip to Ostrava, which is 2 1/2 hours North by train. That adventure I will save for a later post this week. But I will tell you about my trip to see the nearby Veveri Castle. I went with two staff members, Zuzka and Aja. They were kind enough to show me around and answer all my questions... or at least read me the signs with all the information on them. It was late afternoon so the sun was that beautiful golden color as it set behind the hills. The original castle was built in the 13th century. The city is in the process of restoring it, but the process is slow as they don't have a lot of money for the project. Its gorgeous stone walls and gothic towers give it a magnificent presence high up on the hill. It overlooks a river which adds serenity to the beautiful scene. During the winter season the inside of the castle is closed to the public. I am looking forward to exploring it more in the Spring.

Another view of the castle

My English lessons are in full swing this week so I am staying very busy. A couple of prayer requests would be that I continue to manage my time well even with the increased work load. There are a lot of ministry activities that happen every week. I would love to be a part of all of them, but know I need to use my time wisely. I have always struggled with saying no to things, so pray God would guide me in the prioritizing the right things.

Thanks everyone and I will put a post up about Ostrava in the next few days. :) 

The Mundane

I was talking with my friend Katka today while sitting in the office lesson planning. We were talking about blogging. I was sharing with her how I am new at blogging and still find it weird that I am broadcasting my life on the internet. It's not as easy as you think. Take this last week for example. It was my first week in Brno, living in my dorm room. I did everyday things. I unpacked all my things, tried decorating my room the best I could to make it feel homey and went grocery shopping. I got up every morning, lesson planned and hung out with new friends. In my head that all sounds like regular, mundane things that no one really wants to read about on a blog...

But then I put myself in everybody else's shoes. If one of my close friends or family members moved to another country for a year, I wouldn't care if they blogged about brushing their teeth in the morning! I would just enjoy reading about their new life, even if all they ever talked about were the simplicities that made up their day. So, all of that to say, I will do my best to spruce up this blog post by making my mundane activities of this past week sound exciting.

Last Monday morning was actually quite an adventure. It was my first full day in Brno and I finally settled into the room I will be in for the next six months. Most of you know that for the past 4 months, I haven't stayed in one place for more than 6 weeks. I was glad to finally feel at home somewhere. But it was quite an adventure trying to collect all the things I needed living on my own. Trying to pack my life in 2 bags for an entire year leaves me with little wiggle room for things such as a frying pan or silverware. But the In-Life staff were very kind to lend me a whatever I needed. The only problem is, I have borrowed things from so many different people I will have to keep an inventory for what belongs to who. Haha, oh well. I have joked with everyone that at the end of 6 months I will just invite them all over to my dorm room for a party and they can take home whatever they find that's theirs :)

I was pleasantly surprised to find I could buy most things I am used to buying in the States at the stores here in Brno. I think the biggest adjustment I have had to make, besides the weather, is transportation. I am learning how to travel the bus and tram systems in the city. It really is such a blessing to have a car, but the public transportation provides me with time to talk with people and observe life on the streets. I take tips on how to dress warmer by scoping out people walking by. It's amazing how much fur I've seen here! Who knew!

I've tried some new food. I wish I knew how to spell the dishes I've tried, but let's just say Czechs like their cheese! It's with everything here, but I'm not one to complain. Every time I try something new, people ask me if we have anything similar in the U.S. This starts a conversation about American food and what I like to cook. It's fun to watch their expressions when I tell them about things like guacamole, pb&j, and oreos. They made me promise to cook them an "authentic" Mexican meal sometime next week, but only if I didn't make it too spicy.

I went ice skating yesterday with a group of friends. We went to a dam just a little outside the city that had frozen over. I have never skated on anything other than a rink before so it was quite an experience! There is a castle about 2 miles out on the ice, but it was too cold and windy to try and skate there. I do hope to see it sometime though. I will be going bowling on Wednesday with In-Life students. It should be fun to do something that I actually have experience in!

Well, friends, I hope this has been entertaining enough for you. I need to head to bed since I have started teaching this week. My first session is tomorrow morning at 9 AM. Pray God can work through me to help these brothers and sisters in Christ. I feel very inadequate, but I know God can work through the weakest of people.

I will post again soon!

Ski Retreat

Hello Everyone!

I made it back alive from the ski trip! There were times when I was coming down the mountain on my skies that I wasn't quite sure if I would... But I did make it back, with sore muscles and a few bruises. It was so pretty up there. It was a winter wonderland full of breath-taking views and snow that glittered in the sunlight. I have put a few pictures up on Facebook, but I will link some here as well. 

There were about 30 people that went on the trip and about 10 unbelievers. It was the perfect setting for me to meet most of the students involved in In-Life. I have made some new friends, and had some good conversations. It was a little rough at first to communicate. Most of the students involved can speak English, but they are unconfident to have a full conversation. So it took some time to get to know some people well enough to get them to start talking. But God works in His own timing. I am learning His plans usually take longer which involves more patience on my part. But He is at work. 

I tried cross-country skiing for the first time. I went out with a few other people at 9:45am and didn't return until 5:30pm. It was a LONG day. I was only thinking I would be out for a couple of hours. But how could I pass up skiing up a mountain with the sun out on such a brisk morning? My body hated me for it, but it was well worth it. I made it outside every day whether it was on a walk or just to play some ultimate frisbee in the snow. 

The retreat also allowed me to have a lot of time with God. We had a time of devotionals every morning which included some worship songs. All of them were in Czech, but there were some English songs I recognized and was able to sing along with. Everyone here is very thoughtful. I always have someone to translate for me when there is a conversation going on or a message. The believers over here are very transparent with their relationship with God. I have only been here a week, but I already see how important fellowship with one another is to their faith. I am excited to be a part of it!

Yesterday, I moved into a dorm room that is right down the street from the In-Life offices. I've unpacked all of my things and am settling in. This morning, we had a staff prayer meeting. We started discussing the schedule for my English classes. It won't begin for another couple of weeks, but I am glad I have the time to prepare a little bit more and observe the areas that need the most work. 

I hope to start taking some tutoring lessons in Czech soon. The more I am here, the more I realize how important it is. I am very excited to start and for the impact that it will have on my ministry. 

A few prayer requests would be that I continue to get settled here in Brno. I am not missing home too much yet, but I know I will in the weeks to come. Every day God continues to reaffirm His call for me to be here. But I wouldn't be human if I didn't have my doubts. Pray that I will continue to rest my soul on God's affirmations. Pray also, for my time management. I got a glimpse today of how much goes on in this ministry and how much expectation there is for my English classes. I love staying busy, but pray I will make time for myself and for the Lord.

Thank you for all your sweet prayers and messages. I will write again soon!

Rachel

First Post from Brno!

I apologize for not posting before I left, but life got a little crazy trying to say goodbye to everyone and packing up my life. If anyone is interested, my life now consists of the two bags I took with me, and 4 boxes in my parent's garage. A little pathetic, but I can pick up and move anywhere!

Yesterday, I made the long journey to Brno. It took two airplanes and a 2 1/2-hour car ride to finally get me here, but I made it safely. Thank you to everyone for all the prayers. I definitely felt them as I traveled alone to airports I wasn't familiar with. God was protecting me the whole way. But unfortunately, I didn't get much sleep as there were so many legs to the trip so I am still pretty exhausted. I will have to keep this post short and sweet.

Just so everyone knows, I am 9 hours ahead of Pacific Coast Time. It's almost 1pm here, but I feel like it's 2 am! I'll be taking a little snoozer before I leave in a few hours for a ski ministry retreat. Yeah, I know. Having never skied before, it might not be the best time to try when jet lagged. We will see if I make it back alive :) If no one hears from me by Monday, I will be in a better place.

This morning I met with a few of the Integrity Life Ministry staff (formerly Christian Education Living or KVZ). I would tell you their names if I knew how to spell them ;). We talked through each of our expectations and I am really excited to start serving alongside their ministry. I will give more detail in later posts as I begin my work. For now, just know that God is going to be doing a mighty work here in Brno and I am excited to be a part of it!

Well folks, that's all I got in me at the moment. I hope this feeds your appetites a little bit until I get back from the retreat. Thanks again for all your prayers. Pray for the retreat if you would. It is doubling as an outreach to some of the college students. There will be a total of 30 people going. I hope to establish some good relationships.

Another post will come soon!

Rachel

Saying Good-Bye

Christmas and New Years have come and gone! Everything has been such a blur since finishing up my position at Crossroads. It has been weird not going into the office every morning. But the time I have been able to spend with friends and family has been refreshing. My "To Do" list has gotten much bigger than I originally planned. It is weird to have to think about everything I will need for the next year of my life. Usually I feel accomplished if I know what I am doing in the next 24 hours.

These last two weeks at home, I want to be able to say good-bye to everyone I will be leaving behind. Since, there are only 24 hours in the day, and I usually like to sleep for at least 8 of those hours, I won't be able to spend individual time with everyone. So, I am putting on a send-off dinner that will double as a fundraiser. On Friday, January 13th, I will be providing dinner at my church Crossroads Community Church for $10 a plate. All donations will go towards funding my trip. Show up anywhere between 5 and 7 pm to hang out, learn a little bit more about my trip and say good-bye. I hope this provides me with the opportunity to see as many people as possible, and my hope is that everyone who comes, will leave feeling a little bit more involved in my plans. And who knows, I might have a couple surprises up my sleeve ;)

I do want to mention one more thing. I have been getting a lot of questions about my financial needs. I am not getting paid for any part of this trip. I am trying to raise support for the whole year. So far, God has been gracious to provide me with at least half of my funds. I hope to continue to raise support while I am overseas. But, if you are interested in supporting my trip before I leave, you can visit the Connect 2 website for more information, www.connect2ministries.net. Click on the Czech Republic link at the top of the page and it will lead you to my little bio. On that page you will find a way to send monetary support either online or by mail. If you have further questions about support, please feel free to email me at rroleder@gmail.com.

I hope to write at least one more time before I leave so check back soon!