Lessons of Goodbye

We are 4 days away from boarding a plane and moving to the country where our hearts have been for some time. WHOA. We never imagined we would be packing our bags right now [four suitcases and two carry-on's, to be exact]. But HE works like that. In his own timing, in his own ways. Our plans have changed so incredibly much, time and time again. We have been humbled and redirected numerous times. Now we are just so grateful he is allowing us to be a part. 

Last week we were able to spend a week with Anna's family in the panhandle of Florida. It was a blessing to get such good quality time with them before we go. 

Possible spoiler alert to my parents' C'mas card! :)

The goodbyes were not easy, to be honest. They were really hard. Upon our return to Knoxville, we said "see ya later" to our small group and "Club". Our small group sent us off well as we grilled out and played games! We sure are thankful for these friendships made and roots put down, which only HE could do.

Our wonderful small group! Such an amazing group of people.

Notice the "See ya later" banner in Chinese!

During these bittersweet days, the opposer has seized the opportunity to twist the motives and desires which HE has placed in our hearts so deep. 

"This is selfish. You are making your family hurt."

"You cannot be a good friend/daughter/son/sister/brother from overseas."

"Do you know all the birthdays, the holidays, the births, the basketball games that you will miss?!"

Lies upon lies presented before a weary, emotional us. After being worn down by this, we have come to a place where we simply just ask ourselves: Is he worth it? Are our students worth it? These are always answered with a confident YES. It's amazing how the opposition wants to twist and warp every step, every decision in every season! But there is a lesson and a joy we learn more and more with each move- and considering that this is our third move in 3 and a half years of marriage, we have learned it a lot! It is an ever growing desire for the long term. One day there will be no more goodbyes. We will all be together, from all states, countries, continents, being in forever awe! We long for that day more and more all the time. 

There are still more difficult goodbyes ahead of us. Thank you for remembering us as we head to Colorado on Sunday. We are incredibly excited about the adventure before us!

"Goodbyes are often unspeakably painful. And yet, with each goodbye we utter comes the fresh promise of the beginning of a brand new season of life. And with each season, there is a new life lesson to be learned from Him." -Ludy