The Whole Story
It’s currently lent, which is observed for 40 days in remembrance of the 40 days Jesus spent in the desert facing the strain of testing. Unlike Jesus, left to my own devices I am not without sin, but like Jesus, I have experienced testing in the desert. The temptations of pleasing people, of pursuing peace at all costs which is not actually true peace, of being spectacular, of control, they came hard and fast. The pressures of the last season have pruned me and purified me in ways I have barely begun to understand.
I remember moments driving through the desert, just trying to make it through, driving the winding roads of the wilderness that follow the same contours of land the Israelites would have followed up Mt Nebo. From there they saw the promised land, Moses died, and Joshua took courage. I wish I could say that I always took courage too, but fearlessness is a battle, and hope is precious.
Precious also was the time spent with treasures in the desert: women, children, men, who became family to me, and who offered me friendship and hospitality and softened the harshness of the climate with their love. These ones have joined the ever-growing community of people who are God’s gift in exchange for leaving ones’ home and family to follow. What a beautiful exchange.
What has happened in the space of about 4 years is parts bewildering and parts wonderful. I’ve made my home in the red dirt of Africa, the desert dust, and the world’s end gardens, and no longer feel tied to the country of my birth. My home is the will of the Father, wherever He plants me I am at rest.
“and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of joy
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the Lord
for the display of his splendor.”