4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Some things have happened in the past few days that have really made me question the experience I have had this semester abroad. While I can't go into detail what those things are, I will say this: I have discovered my purpose for being here in Spain.
It's not to go to as many countries or cities as I can, spend as much money as I can or see how many stupid things I can do while drunk. My purpose here has been to get to know the PEOPLE of Sevilla...and let me tell you, it has been invaluable. Money cannot buy some of the experiences I have had here with people...and not just regular Americans, but Spaniards! They are the most generous and fun-loving people I have ever met. And without certain friends in my life here, my experience would just be one big selfish and extravagant semester abroad. I don't mean to sound like I'm condemning anyone for traveling as much as possible with the money they've earned to spend here in Europe cause that is awesome to do....it's just that is not how my semester is being spent.
And honestly, while I can't help but feel a little disappointed, I am content. I have felt, especially in the last few days, that the devil is trying to steal the joy that I have to be here and the joy I've found in friendships. It's not fair cause I have worked hard to get here so I am praying fiercely every day that God will provide me with his armor to fight off the devil and his wicked schemes...and it all starts with reading His Word.
My semester abroad will not be measured in how many countries I've been to, souvenirs I've bought, or how many drinks I've tried, but rather by how many Spanish friends I have made, how many times I laughed til I cried and how much love I have shown. :)
What an experience this has been. I can only hope that through all the mistakes I've made and hiccups in this trip that God's love and grace can still be seen through me and can bring people to Him.
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