Almost, Not Yet, Already
When we hit the first Sunday of Advent, we start listening to Rain for Roots’ “Waiting Songs” continuously as we drive to and from school. There’s some beautiful theology caught up in poetry with tunes that keep our twins humming along. Win win win. One chorus that’s lyrics have found their way into our lives this Advent is “Almost, not yet, already…”* Advent is a weird time--- we look back at the prophets, we look forward to Jesus’ return, and we are keenly aware of our present need. Right now, our family feels caught up in this Advent-y sense of time.
Almost--- After a year or so of discernment, we’ve finally been led to God’s next step for us. It came as a surprise to us, but in August 2024, God willing, we will be moving to Leeds, England to work alongside vulnerable adults with a ministry called Caring For Life. But August isn’t now. It’s almost here.
Not Yet--- We look at houses for rent, knowing they won’t be available. Not yet. Nate has become well acquainted with autotrader.uk—lots more Volkswagens than here. We can’t jettison all we own done to twelve checked bags for our family. Not yet. We email schools, asking about placement for our kids but can’t officially apply. Not yet.
Already---We’ve already been surprised by God’s faithfulness. You’d think after 7 years as missionaries, we’d know that God shows up when you step out in obedience—but we are always surprised and humbled. We’ve already received confirmation of God’s leading-- financial provision, words of encouragement, even angels laughing. We are already beginning to grieve leaving our dear family and community that makes Pittsburgh such a sweet spot to call home. Ugh.
Our kids have walked alongside of us in this journey of discernment. They’ve been patient with the process, and shared feelings of excitement, sadness, hope, and disappointment. Jack insists “I only want to go to England to visit—maybe one day or two months.” When asked about moving, George shares “I will feel happy—because I will have new home that’ll be warm… and have a TV!” Henry is concerned about the lack of professional sports teams--- namely baseball and hockey, while also vocalizing fear about how he will find his friends when we come back. Anne, our tenderheart, is quick to ask “If there will be any children there and what do the children do at church?” We pray that God will hear each of their requests and honor the unique ways He has crafted each of them in this next season. While we try to model obedience in following God’s leading for our kids, we hold onto one of the many promises present in this season of Advent--- that God is with us. Here now in our ‘already’. He will hold us close in all the almost-ness of transition. And, Emmanuel will be with us in the ‘not yet’. May Emmanuel be close to you in whatever ‘time’ who find yourself this Advent!
If you’d like to hear more about our discernment, current ministry, and changes coming, we will be posting updates at: www.theslowwork.com. And, we’d just be delighted to keep in touch!!
*Song referenced “Mary Consoles Eve” by Rain for Roots