Debrief in the Black Forest

Jack "cutting it down" as he likes to do

I dreaded the sleepless nights and family travel. But Leona was right: we were in need of a debrief.

So we packed up a new white noise machine and a pair of obscenely large car seats (apparently rentals can be dangerously damaged and abused?), and headed for the Rockies.

A debrief, for those unaccustomed with standard missionary protocol, is a gathering usually recommended after the end of your service overseas, especially if you were gone for a while. It's the chance to share your stories and process your struggles. It's a time to celebrate and a time to cry. Our debrief happened a couple of weeks ago through an organization called MTI.

We had a lot to sift through but I think for me there were at least two lessons learned.

1. The missionary experience is rad and awful. It's the paradox of serving God and others. While the rewards are deep and satisfying, the suffering is real and relevant. We found that many of our struggles were similar to those of others in the group. Although we had to endure a big earthquake and a life-threatening illness, we didn't have to worry about burglars in the middle of the night or shifty leadership in the field.

2. God loves me as His child just as I am and not in light of what I've done or failed to do. One morning started with a devotional that asked, "How do you think God feels about you?" Wow, heavy thoughts emerged. It was a reminder that first we need to establish our identity in Him and His great love for us. This is often challenging for me while consumed with my zeal for the grand task that surely pleases the Father.

Oh, no, wait, there was a third lesson.

3. It's possible to return your rental car and be cited for "hail damage" even though the forces of nature are clearly out of your control and there was no hail the weekend you were away for at least a couple hundred miles.

Another worthy trip behind us. Now may we avoid the next one for as long as possible! ;)

Our small group where most of our stories were shared.