There's No Pause Button

Something that I've realized coming home is that many people say I'm on vacation, taking time off, or something along those lines.  While I am taking this time to enjoy the beach down the road from my house and reconnecting with people State-side, that doesn't mean I'm on pause with ministry.  

The more I'm away from home, the more I find myself compelled to invest heavily in people's lives (through conversations, prayer, and actions) both here in the States as well as in Northern Ireland.  I'm really good at not staying connected with people.  And I'm NOT proud of that.  It's a weakness I'm trying to strengthen, staying communicated despite my geographical location.

However, I'm a firm believer that ministry is not a volunteer position, vocation, or career.  It's a lifestyle.  Many times when talking with people, they don't necessarily understand that, but when you're switched on and aware of what Christ has done for you, you can't help but have that overwhelm you to the point that it overflows into every aspect of your life: from conversations with cashiers (I embarrass my friends so much some times!), to difficult discussions with friends and family I love and want the best for, to standing strong for what I believe even when people I care about mock or test me (it breaks my heart, but grows my love for them and my longing for them to know Christ the way I do).

My life is an outpour of what Christ has done for me, in me, and through me.  Some people may not understand that (you, the reader, maybe), it may seem crazy or ridiculous, but I'm compelled by what Sister Teresa once said: "I have found the paradox, that if you love until it hurts, there can be no more hurt, only more love."  Christ gave love until it hurt, unto death, how can I give any less than my life?  I have found there is no pause button, life is always streaming live.  I have to ask myself, is my live stream worth watching, or would God rather switch the channel?

Overdue

I have now been back State-side for 6 weeks and I feel like I've been going 100 mph since I landed on 18 May.  I am so thankful for this time at home, but anyone who's spent 3 minutes around me knows that although I am physically here in America, my heart is in Northern Ireland (because that's mostly what I tend to talk about...with everyone and anyone- literally!)

As many people know, but some may not, Kairos has asked me to come back on a three year mission post that I have accepted.  Although we never quite know what God has planned for us, I have been affirmed and reaffirmed that Northern Ireland will be my home for at least the next few years!  This is not something I'm taking lightly and feel heavily privileged to be a part of in the Kingdom work.

That said, while in the States until the end of October (get to be a part of another wedding! 2 down, 2 to go! YAY) I will be renewing my visa, connecting with churches and individuals, and expanding networking and partnerships for both spiritual and financial support.

My prayer is two-fold: I have seen God use me alongside teams both State-side and on the Emerald Isle...my prayer is that while God continues that work here State-side while I'm here, that He also bless the team I am yearning to return to over in Northern Ireland.  My heart breaks and friends here have seen me shed many a tear because I so desperately want to be back with those on the Emerald Isle.  I know that this has and will continue to be a time of refreshing, reconnecting, and rediscovering the passion God engraved on my heart many years ago.  I am grateful for the blessings God has placed in my life and thank Him daily for allowing me to do what I'm doing and providing to make it all possible.

PS I promise the next update won't take nearly as long to post!!!!!!

"By the power that raised You i am made new!"