Well, it's finally here- the Big Move itself! After a pretty full (and surreal) week, I finally have a little time to read, write, call family, and reflect.
I'm typing this from Newark Airport, where I have four more hours before my flight departs for Edinburgh. I'm camped out near an outlet to charge up, and eyeing the food court nearby to scope out options for a late lunch. "So far, so good" is how I'd summarize today- final
The last few days have involved lots of packing (obviously) and last-minute errands, but the good-byes are really what I was dreading. In some ways it's just like leaving for any other trip, and very much has/had a "see you later" feel as I talked with different people. In my head I know it will be a while (probably Christmas) before I see anyone again, but it just doesn't feel real yet. I wonder when it will?
Many of you are curious to know exactly what I'll be doing- me too! :-) All I really know is that I've been hired as a Children's Worker (in American terms, involved in their Sunday School program) at Liberton Kirk for 12 hours a week, and am in the process of becoming a part-time staff person with Young Life (International) for 20-25 hours a week, doing various forms of youth ministry and evangelism. I'm looking forward to sharing more about those, maybe because that would mean I'll finally know exactly what God is having me do!
Another component of the move is a bit more intangible (though hopefully blended with those people and work). I don't think God calls us somewhere to only "do", but more importantly to "be". He already knows the friendships and relationships that will keep developing in Scotland and Europe, and the activities that I hope will capture my time and heart (writing, learning Russian, reading, cooking, babysitting) to shape who I am/become. God is able to relate to us and through us in so many different ways...it's exciting that He has all aspects of a new life over there in mind, not only ministry hours. And I'll know Him in a deeper way as we go through this transition together. More than anything, I think that gives me a sense of excitement and peace.
That's it for now...time for a few phone calls while I have service. Oh- my US number will be ending as of tomorrow, so email (rachelewillis@gmail.com) and facebook are the most reliable ways to communicate. Thanks so much for all the encouragement and excitement- it's wonderful to be able to share this with so many.
There have been a lot of verses that friends have given me (Scripture is so powerful!), but the one I'm dwelling on today is Romans 15:13: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." I like the idea of overflowing with Holy Spirit hope! :-)
God bless you!
~Rachel
