And Just Like That.

Well guys, looks like my Australian journey has now come to an end.  It's super bitter-sweet as well.  I'm currently feeling incredibly blessed and thankful.  You know it's funny the first 2 days I was here in Australia, I sat in my room and begged God to let me come home.  Even though I knew His answer, I still begged and bribed.  I look back at those prayers and think 'How glad I am that God doesn't always give us what we want.'

When I was a small child I use to throw temper tantrums when I didn't get my way.  I remember doing it.  I remember getting so frustrated because I couldn't understand why someone that loves me wouldn't give me the satisfaction that they clearly had the power to give.  But I understand now.  Romans 8:28 says 'And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.'  Then right before that Romans 8:26 (which I'd like to point out is my Romans birthday, August 26th) says 'In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.'  How glad I am that the Spirit of God that lives in me trumps every wrongful prayer that I pray.  I don't have to worry about making bad decisions in my askings of God.  And now that I know that, I can apologize and thank God for His goodness.  Similarly as a child, I didn't know that it was in my best interest when my family members would allow me to flop around in the floor and pitch an embarrassing fit.  Just like God, I'm glad my family loved me enough not to care if I thought they were mean at the time.  Remember this line Mommy? 'I don't like you. I take back all my hugs.'  Mommy being my Jesus at the time...'Okay. But I know you don't mean that.'  Whoa.  Does that sound anything like Luke 23:24 'forgive them, for they do not know what they do.'

I'm thankful for this experience.  I absolutely feel like a different person and I'll never be the same after this trip.  I don't ever want to forget.  I happily took the good things and worked out the 'not as good' things.  I was used for a greater purpose and that's all I ever wanted.  Not to mention, Australians have the best accent.  So that's been a plus.  My favorite words they pronounce are: [garage, awesome, father, heart, together, her and God.]  Also I have a new Aussie word:  [Port-a-loo = Port-a-potty.]  I know.  I think we should inherit that word as well.

Thank you all for joining me for this season of my life.  It's really been a privilege.  I've kept you with me every single day.  Wonder what's next eh?

Be blessed.  See you in the western hemisphere.