A Layne Post
So here we are, settling in. Driving no longer feels so foreign. I am loosing the urge to honk at everyone. I’ve stopped admiring fancy toilets and thick heavy mirrors. Incredibly nice customer service is no longer shocking, and I’ve lost my urge to grab and hug the necks of strangers for being so friendly. I do not have the desire to shovel every single food item on the grocery isle into my mouth at the same time.
It is such a blessing to have family and friends that we can pick up with as if no time has lapsed at all. There are not awkward silences, or wishing we could slip away. It has been heartwarming and encouraging to be so surrounded by love.
We are happy to be here.
I can say; however, while life seems a bit easier, or perhaps more convenient here, I wouldn’t want to live here. I’ve really thought about it this week, as I’ve struggled through funny emotions, finding it strange that this was ever “norm” for us. It is comforting that the Lord has grown in Jon and I a deep love for Africa, and now specifically Mozambique. I miss it. How hard it would be to feel like our service to the Lord was only obedience. I’m not sure I could leave all this that I once held dear. Instead God has blessed us with a ministry we love, in a place we’ve grown to love, surrounded by dear friends and fellow laborers we love.
So here I am, in my common predicament, torn by the ones we love. Happy to be here, missing people there. I guess we’ll never all be on the same continent.
I’m ever reminded this world is not our home.
It was so good to get to see you today – so inspiring, touching, and challenging to hear the stories of your life and friends in Mozambique, and to see what God is doing in and through your heart and passion -to be His hands and feet-there – and here….very deep and rich lessons and growth. I am praying that God will continue to encourage and refresh you with friends, family, and fellowship while you are here.
Wow Layne, I am so glad you have the opportunity to visit your family and loved ones and I admire the fact that you want to go back to Moz. May you be refilled with family and friends hugs and love so that you can continue with your love work in Moz. Hugs
It is sweet … and bitter, isn’t it? I love that you three are here with us, but I know it is not your home. And I am glad for the home God has given you. It is good for you to be at home with the people God has given you to serve and love. Thank you for letting us love them too.
SOOOO glad youre feeling that way! what a blessing to know your heart is where its supposed to be. cant wait to see yall! youll probably be sick of “us” by then and cant wait to get back:)