Apples to Apples

The world is about to change. Well, maybe. As I write this, the geeky, cult-like following devoted to everything Apple is awaiting the news of what is expected to be the release of the iPhone 5. If this does not sound like news to you, let me be the first to assure you that it is. Seriously, it really is... I think. Either way, people are on the edge of their seats, the stock market is bracing for a bump, and small figurines of Steve Jobs are being raised in celebration and worship (think golden calf from the book of Exodus). As in all of these cases, anticipation is extremely high, particularly for those who have been holding out on buying a new phone for quite some time. What will be new (or old)? How will they make something unbelievably awesome even more awesome-er?!? I don't know. But I do know that Kirsten and I share this feeling of anticipation, but not for the new iPhone. The reality is that we are excited about and a bit anxious for getting back to Buff Bay!

We leave in less than two weeks, so life is now full of packing and good-byes, while trying to savor the last couple of days in the States. There is an excitement and burning desire to get back to work and to people we dearly love in and around Buff Bay. There is also a sadness to leave people we love and care about in the States. Throughout our extended stay we have been incredibly blessed by the kindness, hospitality, and love so many have shown us, not least of which our supporters (both churches and families/friends)! Kirsten and I have always boasted in how well God has supplied our financial and spiritual support by the means of His people! Even with this foundation of support and excitement, there is still a feeling of anxiousness as we gear-up for travel. How will the ministry be different (what will remain the same)? How do we reengage? How can we guard against past mistakes, short-comings? What does this phase of the ministry look like going forward?

Neither the stock market nor a world-wide audience will ever know how these questions will be answered, unlike the unveiling of the iPhone. However, in terms of eternity, only what is done for Christ will last. This is not an attempt to overstate our roles and responsibilities, but simply a restatement of a biblical truth (1 John 2:17, 1 Peter 1:24-25). We are ready, but anxious for what the future holds, and we trust that every detail is sovereignly controlled by God, who is able to turn anxiety into excitement and joy!