As followers of Jesus in a foreign land, Rosedale International (RI)’s workers often find themselves in situations of stretching or discomfort. While difficult, these moments open a space in which to experience the faithfulness of God. Three women on the field recently shared their reflections on discomfort; their names and locations have been changed or omitted for security.
Ellen, Worker in the Mediterranean
Our first main task here has been to get over jet lag. Truth be told, our kids have been absolute champs. They slept full nights from the first night here, and with few exceptions have done so since. Eddie and I have muddled through jet lag with lots of grace for each other and lots of local tea. And now, after a couple of weeks, I think our brains have finally figured out where we are!
In addition to conquering jet lag, we set out to explore our town. Eddie and I have very limited language, but we’ve had fun trying to communicate via motions and Google Translate. It has led to many awkward (and sometimes fun) moments. During our attempt to get SIM cards for our phones, we struggled so much that a helpful local who spoke some English came to our aid. We made good connection with him, and Eddie hopes to grab tea with him soon.
These next weeks will involve more adjustment to the culture and the town, some orientation work with our team, and beginning language classes.
Opal, Worker in the Mediterranean
Yesterday I was so looking forward to a Sabbath Sunday after months of visitors and travel. I thought I deserved it and that God would want this for me. I briefly had the story flit through my head of Jesus healing on the Sabbath and saying, “The Sabbath is made for people, not people for the Sabbath,” but I continued to enjoy a restful and peaceful morning.
After lunch, my neighbor rang the doorbell. She was inviting me, with other neighbor women, to visit her father who had just returned home after a hospital stay. Recently, we have learned that it is very important to show care by going to someone’s house after a hospital stay—so invading to our private western sensibilities!
I felt the sacrifice in my body. The word about Sabbath forgotten, I knew this was the time to be present, to give, and learn with my neighbors. Peace seeped into my mind as I realized this was the way for me today. We drove together to a neighborhood tucked up against the mountain and walked together to the house.
We shared a large, lovely tea and both hilarious and sobering conversations. I prayed for these beloved ones who were sharing their real lives with me. At the end of the evening, one neighbor shared the sorrows heaped on her head in the last year and a half. She said, “All there is, is tears.” I was able to share that I’m praying for her in Jesus’s name. Only later did I remember that Jesus had prepared me for a flexible Sabbath; I had been ready to force the rest I needed but instead walked with Him into the rest where He was present.
Nila, Worker in South Asia
This month has been so wonderful, filled with visitors, fun surprises, and so much joy. I can’t say that the same was true last month. While the beginning was great, the second half of the month was full of disappointment. I thought that I was going to be able to visit with family in another country, watch my brother perform in a holiday parade, and tour the country with my mom and sisters. I was beyond excited!
Unfortunately, because of conflicts in this part of the world, I got stuck in the Dubai airport. I was so close, and yet so far, from the family I desperately wanted to see. It was one of the lowest points that I have ever experienced. Through it all, my heavenly Father held me so close. When I was at my lowest, wondering how to move past my deep disappointment, I was met with so much grace and love from the people in my community. My co-workers, students, and their parents were so kind. It was a reminder to me that, despite our cultural differences, they have welcomed me into their world. I feel so humbled and grateful for this dear place.