Back in the States, so now what?!

I have been away from the blogging world for quite a while, and I think I have an inkling as to why I have been avoiding getting back into blogging. I guess I feel like my story is just not interesting anymore. I have moved back to the States, so I don't have anymore stories about chickens in my office, or running over goats in the Land Cruiser. :) Living and working in Uganda/Haiti was my "calling." And I guess now, I feel a little at a loss for a "calling" here in Berkeley (where we moved for Ruco to attend grad school at Cal). Maybe I feel a little less "hardcore" because whereas life was hard in Uganda and Haiti, now it is just...normal and easy. And I have been finding it hard to hear His voice with the lure of entertainment, convenience, and FUN! FUN! FUN! demanding my attention!

And what do I do with this, "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." Matthew 28:19?? Jesus COMMANDS me to "go." In fact, I was reminded in my devotion this morning (Experiencing God), that we need permission to stay!! Jesus left His Father to go to Calvary, and he instructed those who wanted to follow Him to leave their comforts and their homes. And "go" to me for the longest time meant...Africa.

So why ARE we back?!? Answer: Grad school for Ruco, and me too (hopefully next fall). And Ruco was given a REALLY awesome full scholarship which includes a living stipend. But we are cautious, and don't ever want the pursuit of "success" by the worlds standards to get in the way of us being obedient. I never want success to be a hindrance in going where God wants us!!! Jesus called disciples in the midst of great successes in their careers. Think Peter and the big catch, right?!

So, my biggest prayer while God has us here in Berkeley is that we will still continue to "go." My prayer is that I will listen to the gentle nudgings of the Spirit and "go" volunteer to work with the homeless or refugees in our area, or "go" and talk to my neighbor about Him. And I pray when Ruco and I finish our education, that we don't use our talents/successes for this world, but for HIS glory!!! Most of all, that we NEVER let anything come in the way of following Jesus, not comfort, not family, and certainly not worldly success!!!!!!! That we will ALWAYS "GO" where he tells us to go...whether that's Uganda, Haiti, or Berkeley, CA! My prayer is that we will be found faithful.

Oh Lord,
Hear my prayer that Ruco and I want to only be obedient to you. We want to go WHEREVER you send us, and love on whomever you call us to love. And Father, may it not be about our glory, fame, and success by worldly standards, but it be about YOU and YOUR son, and what you did for us. Thank you for loving me with a  love that I can never, ever comprehend. My life is yours now, and forever!!!!!!!!!!

Love Ruco's caption on this photo: "bffs." Ha. I do LOVE these people.

Everybody now...farewell party in Haiti

Such a beautiful night, with amazing people

A Haitian dance party

God gave us the most beautiful sunset for our last night on Jax Beach!!