Have you ever stepped out into a cool summer’s rain? With outstretched arms, tilted back head and closed eyes, I escape to a world unknown as I twirl in complete freedom. I know that everyone has experienced this before, even in adulthood. How refreshing it is to just forget about the stresses and cares of the world for a few minutes! That is just what happened to me when I went home to the United States to visit with family and friends while awaiting visa documentation.
I had not anticipated this trip to the states, because our company made plans to send us to another Eurpoean country. After some discussion, I decided to pay an extra expense and travel home. Little did I know how blessed I would be! My entire stay consisted of family and friends showering me with kind words and actions. Many people called, visited and took me out to eat. My dad’s home church—Southside Baptist in McRae—on the last few days of my visit even handed me a check that covered the personal cost of my plane fare.
I spent quality time with family. I had special moments with my father and mother as we talked and talked. My dad and I did yard work and afterwards sat in the swing to reminisce. My mom and I thoroughly enjoyed preparing meals in the kitchen, and I often just walked up to her and kissed her cheek for no special reason. Buck’s dad and I took multiple walks down the dirt road. Many times we walked in silence and were just in each other’s presence. But on some of these walks, I learned the secrets of old. Buck’s mother and I had special moments as we sipped tea and worked on the farm. During these times, it was as if I were a sponge soaking in words of wisdom as each shared about life experiences.
While stateside I do my best to see all those I love, but it is impossible to travel to everyone I wish. For this particular trip, many came to me. I was overwhelmed by the conversations we shared. I definitely returned to the mission field encouraged and renewed. I cannot help but wonder if there is a glow on my face right now. Because on Sunday alone, I was given the opportunity to witness twice in Moscow and on my return flight I shared the Gospel with three passengers. Two women were from Puerto Rico and one man working for the American Department of Defense.
In the airport I had the most interesting conversation with the two ladies who spoke Spanish. In broken Spanish and English between the two of us, we soon found out that we were both believers. Her sister, who spoke fluent English, returned from the information booth to find us in deep conversation. We exchanged information and now I am praying for my Puerto Rican sisters in Christ and their lost family members. We swapped Bible verses for the day. It was her birthday and she wrote in her journal about our meeting. She passed me a scripture as a reminder of our visit: “Engañoso es el encanto y pasajera la belleza; la mujer que teme al SEÑOR es digna de alabanza.” (Proverbios 31:30) Before I boarded the plane, one of the sisters ran from the front of the line and gave me the biggest hug and kiss right in the middle of Hartsfield-Jackson International. I guess I better brush up on my Spanish now.
And on Sunday in Moscow while traveling home from church, Amielle and I stopped to get nuts at a candy stand. The lady behind the glass began asking questions about why we were living in Russia. And that led to sharing about Jesus. Next week I promised her a Bible as she does not have one. I told her that she could read it for herself. She asked, “Really?” I explained how Christ is our mediator between God and us, thus allowing personal interaction with Him.
So, if a cool, summer shower gives one’s face a radiance that people notice, I guess it was your showers of love that changed mine. You are a part of what we do in many ways. I have tried to explain it before. Maybe now you will believe me. Thanks I needed a fresh rain.
-The Chosen Path, L.Burch
