This month I rediscovered a book on my shelf,  Re-Entry by Peter Jordan. Ten years ago I wrote an article on Re-Entry dealing with the stages in the process of re-entry to your home culture. This article has more to do with the changes that have occurred during overseas service and how that effects returning home.

Peter Jordan writes, “Things have not been stagnant during your time away. It is imperative before you leave the mission field to take time to properly assess how much you have changed, and how much things have changed back home.

Continue reading 'Re-Entry- Changes You Will Face'»

It is December again. We all have Christmas in the back of our minds even if we are not actively thinking about it. The message of the angels to the shepherds was, “Peace on earth and goodwill to men.” Are you experiencing God’s peace? Are you at rest in God and the work He has given you to do? Are you secure in His provision in this economic atmosphere?

Judith Havens shares her lesson on trust with us. In whatever ways your world is turned on its head this Christmas season, let your stability come from your deep abiding trust of the God who gives us peace.

Have you ever ridden on a roller coaster? You know, that up and down motion. One moment you are excited with anticipation of what is to come…the thrill of a life time. The next moment you are being flung through the air and wondering if you will survive. That is usually when I think, “I will never get on this thing again!” Continue reading 'An Issue of Trust'»

This month Beverly Richardson shares what transformation has meant in her life. She has served overseas, both short and long term. Beverly earned her PhD. so she can effectively help cross cultural workers. She currently lives and works in Asia.

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Today I was thumbing through old journals, some that go back as far as 16 years. I think it does one good to go back and see just how far we’ve come, or how we’ve gotten stuck in the same place for years. For me, it is confirmation of the transformation that God has brought in my life over the years.

Continue reading 'Transformation'»

This month, I’m including an article from my husband’s web site, Intermin.org. Agreement is the strength of any marriage. I hope you will be blessed.

Diane

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“We had this bicycle,” the lady said. “It was built for two people to ride together. What problems that bicycle caused us!”

“How so?” I asked?

“Well, my husband would ride behind me, on the back seat. I always rode in the front seat and steered. But he wouldn’t peddle! He just let me do all the work. When I applied the brake, then he would start peddling!”

Now, this husband worked against his wife only to tease her, but in many marriages the husband and wife fight against each other over much more serious issues. Rather than making a joint effort towards a common goal, they end up battling for their rights. Each of them has an individual goal and tries to make their spouse go in their direction, at their pace. Marriage becomes a struggle rather than a partnership.

Continue reading 'Bicycle Built for Two'»

Have you thought about your brain lately? As I learn more about the brain, I am awed by its amazing ability to learn and its flexibility. Since most PWs live and work in a host culture, our ability to adapt is vital. Lose that and you lose your effectiveness. Thankfully, God has fashioned us with the capacity to adapt right from our conception.

Continue reading 'The Flexible Brain–key to cultural adaptability'»