Aventura. . .The next chapter

As a writer, closing out a series is like saying good-bye to old friends. While I’m always excited to jump into something new, I can’t help but miss the characters and setting I’ve created. In a lot of ways, life is the same. It’s full of chapters and storylines that end, twists and turns in the plot line, followed by new beginnings.

 

When our family was studying Portuguese in Brazil, we started calling those new chapters and surprise detours aventura—or adventure. Some changes are easier than others, and most come with a mixture of both tears and joy. During the COVID-19 shutdowns, our family faced a lot of changes. Scott and I were stuck in different countries for months until he was finally able to get an evacuation flight back to the States. We pulled my mother out of assisted living and away from the constant lockdowns. We had all of our kids living with us at one time or another with schools closing down, jobs lost, and so many decisions that had to be made as we constantly had to adjust our plans.

 

Aventura. 

 

This time also brought growth. We watched the Mozambicans where we were living step up and lead, something that was our goal from the very beginning. Our vision—to have Mozambicans leading in every aspect—was becoming a reality. 

                                               (Recent photos from Mozambique)

 

But we were also faced with another decision that wasn’t easy. I was needed in the states, and Scott was still making trips to Africa. Living in two continents was difficult and not sustainable long term. So we began praying for our next chapter. Our next assignment. And over the past few months, God has made it very clear what he wants us to do. 

 

We are in the process of transitioning back to the states, through a prayerful exit that will include continued mentoring and training for the work we are leaving. We recently bought a house in Texas where we will be based, and Scott will work with an international non-profit organization. For the present, we will be a three generational household with my mother, daughter and son-in-law, plus two cats and our German Shephard. 

 

I’m actually here in Africa now. Last weekend we were with leaders from Zimbabwe and Zambia where we spent some precious time with them in person before we leave. Our plans were then for Scott and I to return to Mozambique and say goodbye there as well. Unfortunately, because of complications with my residency papers, I was denied entry. Another twist in the plotline, but God is already redeeming my time in South Africa as I wait for Scott. And as we turn the page on another chapter, we are amazed at God’s faithfulness along the journey. 

                                                (A few photos from Zimbabwe)

Proverbs 3:5–6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding. Acknowledge him in all your ways, and he will make your paths straight.