Monday, September 7, 2009

Back Home


I've been home a little over a week now ... but it didn't really hit home until today (Labor Day) when I sunk my teeth into a juicy ear of corn-on-the-cob. Yes, we see corn from time-to-time in Poland (e.g., as a topping on our pizza!), but never as corn-on-the-cob. So, although the transition back to life in the States is sometimes difficult, I must admit that the corn today tasted mighty good!! :)

As you know, Dave and I were separated for 12 weeks during the summer as he spent 6 weeks in Poland, we enjoyed one week of "overlap" in Poland together, and then I finished out the summer in Poland for the final 6 weeks. It wasn't easy, but we both came away with thankful hearts and glowing reports on the goodness and faithfulness of God.

During my time in Poland, I was able to serve at the Polish children's camp in Ostroda, the Polish family camp, as well as the Missio Musica summer workshops for musicians and worship leaders. The music camp is always a highlight for me, since I love to teach and mentor these young worship leaders. We finished the camp by performing two gospel concerts -- one in Ostroda and one in Barczewo, a small town where a new church is being planted. What joy we experienced as we declared the praises of God in the town square!

This summer's trip, more than ever before, provided opportunities for me to interact with several unbelieving individuals -- people I met on planes, in apartments, on the street, etc. I was amazed at the number of encounters God arranged. I was stretched in my faith and had to rely completely on the Spirit of God to help me articulate the hope that is within me. I traveled quite a bit, meeting many new people and engaging more and more in Polish culture. It's strange, but Poland is beginning to feel like "home" ... as though we live there. We are in relationship with so many people and are becoming more deeply involved in ongoing ministry. We thank God for the way He is opening doors and leading the way.

So now we're both home together and getting reacquainted. :) We sat down and looked at our calendars and realized life and ministry are ongoing!! Just because we're on this side of the ocean doesn't mean ministry stops. Au-contraire!! Besides all the GMM meetings, traveling to raise support, speaking at women's meetings, leading Bible studies, writing newsletter articles, etc., etc., we are also in daily communication with our friends and co-workers overseas. Our work of encouraging, pastoring, building bridges, providing resources, teaching, etc., continues and even increases. Our days are full.

For a few hours of non-stop excitement :), please click on the following links. You'll find photo albums of my trip to southern Poland, the music camp, plus a collection of some of my favorite "snapshots of Poland."
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2032450&id=1042840549&l=84c79049c0
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2032213&id=1042840549&l=a441519875
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2032348&id=1042840549&l=402dd9d4c9
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2032434&id=1042840549&l=4b875beff8

It is SUCH a blessing for us to come home to a group of people who love us, care about us, and are genuinely concerned for our spiritual welfare. It is a huge encouragement to be in relationship with people like you -- people who cry out for the kingdom of God to break into our world. We thank you for your prayers. May we continue to spur one another on as we see the Day approaching (Heb. 10:25).

Love,
...Sandy