So today marks the first week since arriving in the Inland Empire. It has been an eventful week as I have began a new job, moved into new home, joined a new church, and attended a new school. But in the face of all the change, I am thankful for the steadfast love the Lord and that He faithfully watches my every step. He continues shower blessings upon me.
Foothill Bible Church is wonderful body of believers who have kindly welcomed me. I was met my numerous families on Sunday and already have Thursday through Saturday night booked with meals at various homes. I was able to meet many of the students in the youth ministry here during the youth retreat last Thursday through Saturday. We had a great time studying from the Word on the nature of God and how we can know Him better.
Here are two pictures from the weekend. One of us being serious and the other one of us being crazy.
I have been hit with some unexpected “emotional outbusts.” They do not occur really from homesickness. I’ve been away from home plenty of times. But this is a little bigger than that. I’m not calling home “home” any longer. I’m coming out from my father’s support to live on my own. I’m moving on in ministry. I think the happiness of how blessed I am mixes with the sadness that things are not going to be the way “it’s always been” and creates a kind of depressing joy.
I miss my family. I miss my friends. I miss regular contact with people I’ve known for a long time and I don’t have to explain anything, we just understand each other. I miss Sean and the mulling over ministry that we would do at the third place (I have yet to find someone here who has a common Starbucks love). All of these things are good things, but none of things that I’ve experienced down here so far are bad. I have left many good things, only to be a part more good things in Upland, but they are not familiar to me yet.
I also sit with an increasing sense of weightiness as I pray over the ministry that the Lord has called me to at FBC. The pressure sits heavy within my own soul to lead and shepherd with wisdom and to be an example all for the name of Christ. I know that it will take a lifetime to work on, but I want to lay a foundation that I will not need to be torn up later.
6 comments ↓
Gosh, Micah, I can’t see any reason for emotional outbursts. Your life seems completely normal and easy right now!
I can’t tell you how much we miss you already. You’re not the only one going through the Starbucks withdrawal…except he’s still going to Starbucks, so it must be Micah withdrawal. I’m praying for you and am so excited to see what God does in your life through this stretching time.
And hey, at least the English class is done and you haven’t yet resorted to eating nothing but Ramen noodles.
Thanks for encouragement, Mo!
I don’t know why the “English class” being done is a good thing, but I am excited for how you’re going out into all…states, but California could count as another nation…and making disciples. You’re living out the Great Commission and discipling! Yay!
Just as I have to keep telling myself Jesus is better, as I get used to a totally different life with a child and often miss things in the past, I also have to tell myself this place in my life is better because this is where God wants me. Anyway, we’re praying for you!
Hey Micah, I just wanted to let you know that I am praying for you often! We miss you here… but know that this is right were God would have you! I am so excited to hear (and Lord willing someday see) how that Lord is using you to further His Kingdom! Keep on keeping on!
It will take time for any adjustment, but He is always the same and our comfort is found in His arms as we cry out to Him to fill those moments of longings for what is familiar as we pass from one phase of life to another. I will be praying for you during this time of transition. Thank you for your transparency as you seek wisdom to lead the FBC youth. (P.S. My daughter, Hannah, LOVES Starbucks!)
You haven’t found anyone with a love for Starbucks?!? I’m so sorry.
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