Oops, it’s been way too long again haha. I’ve been meaning to write this personal debrief of my missions trip earlier this week, but I’ve been putting it off because thinking about everything that happened (even though it was less than 10 days) seems to feel so overwhelming.

Excluding all the travel time and time zone changes, we were only with the Heritage Home children + Lisda for 7 days. SO SHORT, RIGHT?! It flew by and I couldn’t help but think almost every day that 7 days is not enough. I guess no time would ever really be enough.. It took about two to three days for the girls to open up from being shy, even with returning members. Then just as we begin to get close, it’s time to say goodbye.

To be honest, I think I’m still processing. I’m sitting here writing this and all I can really say is that I miss them.. that’s mostly what I think about when I look back at the trip. It was a wonderful experience going back.. and I loved our team. I was really unsure if I’d have the opportunity and I am so thankful that I was able to go. I was telling Min and Michelle one night that it’s really hard to use words to describe and accurately depict what the children are like. I feel like you have to meet them to really understand.. and so I find myself wishing that they could all come to America so everyone around me could meet them haha.

The theme of the week for VBS was that God is good. In unfairness, in fear, in sadness, in change, and even in goodness, God is always so good. How fitting that theme was.. I felt that it was unfair that we could only be there for a week; I felt incredible sadness having to leave, but also so much joy in knowing God’s presence in the relationships we have with the children there.. and through all the ups and downs, one thing remains forever constant and that is the goodness of the Lord.

God, you really are so good. Thank you for your loving kindness and your immense grace upon your people. Thank you for opening my eyes to see that there really is no one who goes unnoticed by you. You have brought your people to gather in a church that is located in an area predominantly Muslim and you’ve softened their hearts to worship you so joyfully and passionately, and with much gratitude. Would you continue to have your hand over Batam and over Heritage Home. Would you please provide Lisda with an unending amount of strength and encouragement, and help her to find a community to walk with her. Would you be with Heritage Home as they take in more girls.. help them to transition smoothly and guide them into your loving arms if they are lost. Thank you for this opportunity you gave me to serve your kingdom and draw nearer to you. Amen.