There is only one slight problem. The realization of Christmas soon coming ushers the realization of our departure soon coming! The countdown application on my phone is eager to inform me of how small the numbers are becoming: 21 days til Christmas; 34 days til Goodbye Canada. Wooh.
Jordan and I have been much too faithful in checking our countdown, and for me at least, it's been distracting me from enjoying the present. Two weeks ago, our pastor at Glad Tidings spoke on having a vision for our future, God's vision that is. It's fascinating to think of the Holy Spirit as the greatest photographer; he shows us pictures of the past, present, and future through dreams and visions. Jordan and I know that God is bringing us on the adventure of a lifetime. God has given us snippets of what is to come through word revelations from family, friends, and church family we don't even know; and we are so excited to see these words play out in our lives. Pastor Kevin shared that "some don't see God's pictures for their life today because they are staring at pictures of yesterday". I have certainly been that someone in the past, but recently it has been more like "I don't see God's pictures for my life today because I am staring at pictures of the future". I have been so caught up in the countdown, caught up in planning and dreaming of our life 'Down Under, that I'm afraid I've missed some enjoyments and opportunities to serve in the present. Pondering the countdown isn't going to change the reality of it, so I'm praying to be filled with God's vision for our future while still relishing the days God is giving us here.
And on that note, the days of November were exciting for Jordan and I. Here is what went down:
1. Jordan's Birthday.
We are still young enough to look forward to our birthdays - plus ripping off gift wrapping never gets old!
2. Med School/Birthday SURPRISE Party.
I have always wanted to host a surprise party and Jordan has always wanted one, so what better way to celebrate Jordan's medical school acceptance and birthday. And a surprise it was, Jordan was so speechless as 30+ people crowded into the kitchen and cried out "SURPRISE!!". Delicious food, oodles of doctor-themed treats, Jordan's first stethoscope, cards full of love and support - the night was a success indeed!
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| A little blurry, but it's pretty clear by the jaw drop that he is genuinely shocked! |
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| Pinterest-inspired veggie skeleton. Dare you to attempt naming each bone! |
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| Congrats Doctor Jordan! Dressed and ready for rounds. Doctor coat and stethoscope cookies, pretzel thermometers, ear wax, black eyes, and diseased body part candies. |
Jordan's student visa has been approved! Needless to say, we can now formally enter Australia together. Jordan's visa is valid til 2018, including basic health coverage for the both of us. So we thank you for your prayers! In addition, my application to the Queensland College of Teachers has been approved, so I am officially eligible to teach in Queensland! This approval happened a few weeks earlier than I anticipated, for which I am extremely grateful! Job applications can now begin!
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| Hillsong United: Zion tour. Their song "Oceans" has become our prayer and encouragement for the journey ahead. |
4. Hillsong United: Zion Concert.
Going to a Hillsong worship night has been a long time coming. We love their music, their church, and their passion, so listening to them and worshipping with them live was a wonderful experience. The moment was even more special knowing that we could soon be next-door neighbours, visiting one of their church campuses in Brisbane. The future is exciting!
5. Mom and Dad Lobbezoo's 25th Wedding Anniversary.
My parents have done so much for me, so it was a honour to help coordinate a special evening for my parents at the Stone Crock Restaurant in St. Jacob's. We are especially grateful for the timing, because if the silver celebration was even just a few months later... Let's just say it is a year to treasure!
6. Alpha Retreat.
Alpha is a program running at Glad Tidings that introduces people to the Christian faith. This is our 3rd season of our involvement - helping to lead small groups - and each season the retreat is such a powerful day for the participants. With a focus on the Holy Spirit, there were fresh commitments and re-commitments to Christ. It is always special to see people worshipping and praying, giving all they have to Jesus; and with spiritually intimate moments, we share such a bonding that extends beyond the course. Thankful for this ministry!
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| Something about the smell of spruce and a decorated tree is just so relaxing. |
After sharing a story with the church after a missions trip to Matheson, Ontario, I was asked to share my story - battling and overcoming anorexia - with the youth girls at Glad Tidings. Although later than expected, the delay in sharing proved to be purposeful as God was still working on my overcoming story. It was such a privilege to share my experience with these high school girls and I can only hope and pray that God continues to use me to encourage girls in their beauty before God!
8. Christmas Tree Hunting.
I may be 23 but I was so extremely excited to scour WinterSinger's tree farm for the perfect tree. A first time experience for me, and one to be repeated if Jordan and I have the honour of returning to this cold for the Christmases ahead. Got some good tips from the parents!
Reasons to Rejoice:
Bless you all,
Jordan and Jen
- Jordan's student visa and Jen's QCT approved
- Making more contacts with fellow med students
- Pray that a job opportunity would open for Jen, whether a teaching position or one in a non-profit/church program; and pray that Jen would have peace and trust as she must wait for the right job to open up
- Pray for renewed strength in our spirits and faith as we near departing in a month's time
- Pray that we will become increasingly aware of how God wants to use us in the remaining days here, and that we may be obedient to his leadings.
Bless you all,
Jordan and Jen
