Making Sense of Transitions

Jun 1, 2016 | by Brad Sumner

Mission is messy and unpredictable. Neat, happy endings are rarely possible, but as one of our dear families transitions out of their roles with MB Mission in Asia, they have been experiencing peace and even joy as they reflect on their experiences and begin the process of seeking what God has in store for them next.

They shared with our glocal mission team that “in our brokenness, God is showing us that He doesn’t need us to sell the gospel as a glossy, shiny product. We need to be vulnerable. And we need to have the awareness that we are not enough. We show the weakness of human beings, and Jesus shining through.”

But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us… So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. (2 Cor. 4:7,16)

They went on to reflect that “I thought that living the abundant life meant it was my job to show God in his best light, but I’m learning that it’s about inviting people to invite God into every part of their lives. God is meeting us in this hard place.”

Fear not, for I am with you. (Isaiah 43:5)

The family returned  to Central Asia for a final visit for a month in April. Their main focus was to spend time with those closest to them, as well as to close up their home.

Praises:

• They were able to share the gospel more deeply with their friends as they said goodbye; many of their friends’ hearts were primed and ready hear
• Though the visit was emotionally-charged, they were healthy and the trip went smoothly
• The trip was a true blessing for the children, as they come to terms with moving back to Canada

Prayer Requests:

• For the people group they served among, that God would continue to open up ways for them to hear His word and experience His truth
• For this precious family as they discern what their next steps should be

We, at Jericho Ridge, give thanks for this extraordinary family, and for their willingness to pour themselves out for others. They will be sharing JRCC later in June.