Change and adapt
Change and adapt. These are words that are very familiar in our lives at the moment.
Luke 12:22-31
Change and adapt. These are words that are very familiar in our lives at the moment.
We have just moved to Maputo, Mozambique as Global Ministries Missionaries in partnership with the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA). After serving eight years in South Africa with the UCCSA, we were in the USA for nine months on itineration. And now we find ourselves in a new land, with new challenges and new adventures!
We are only about 2 weeks into this journey and have already started learning Portuguese, had the pleasure of being in two worship services, tried new foods, our kids have started their new school at the Maputo International School, and we are learning how to drive in a big city! There are many differences between Mozambique and South Africa and we are looking forward to learning new ways of worship, living and loving from our brothers and sisters here.
Being so out of your “normal” context always makes you take a closer look at yourself, your relationships and the way you function. I have had several of those “ah-ha” moments of late! The one that stands out is that of change and adapt. Is this not our calling as Christians? In the last two weeks I have found that I am not familiar with many of the foods in the shops, things are very expensive here and many things are not available that I use for cooking. I do not speak Portuguese (yet!) and it is difficult to get the smallest things accomplished. The driving here is a challenge as it seems no one follows the lines down the middle of the road and the police are readily available to pull you over for the least mistake. These are the changes. And now to adapt! Jesus tells us in the Luke passages to not worry. Easier said than done, right? But it is a good reminder to read these passages in times of changing and adapting.
What is changing in your life? And how are you adapting? What is worrying you? Read with me today these Luke passages as we lean on God and know that God is journeying with us.
Revs. Jon and Dawn Barnes
Jonathan and Dawn Barnes serve with the Mozambique Synod of the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa, based in Maputo, Mozambique. Dawn serves as an HIV and AIDS Coordinator and Jon serves as project and development officer.