Revelations

...that is what the pastor(s) spoke on today in church. And that is what I thought of as I looked upon the expanse of the city and sea and lights off the balcony tonight. The message and fellowship were wonderful today as I was so blessed to be in the presence of OUR family worshipping OUR Lord and Savior. In two different langues, I might add! :)

After a busy, tiring week a lovely, relaxing sunday was a blessing. My host parents and I were invited over to a family's house for dinner, slushies (yay for ice in hot weather! We take lots of things for granted...) a funny movie and uplifting conversation, I found myself reflecting on our balcony. The view is gorgeous, looking over the bright blue sea, and so many lights you couldnt believe it. Below me the buses still went zipping about like ants, men and women alike walked under the street lights on the still too hot streets, and God spoke something to me.

People are people are people. And they are all in need of HIM. 17 million people live their lives out in this city alone. 17 million! And the Lord knows each of them by name and loves them enough to give up His life for them. Not a revolutionary thought, I know, but when you are looking over the expanse of such a city the concept hits you a lot harder.

The following thought that struck me is difficult to explain, but I will try to convey what went through my mind and heart. Upon my arrival in Istanbul I was completely astounded at the immensity of the city. I have never before experienced such a man-made metropolis that possessed such life - everywhere you look something is moving, alive with color and change. Organization does not exist here. Twelve story apartment buildings soar into the sky, coexisting with businesses below them at street level. Few shops are identifiable to the inexperienced as a Target or Albertsons, or just a general supermarket. Each place is its own identity with a local owner and workers. Attempt to picture such an environment stacked upon itself with vibrant colors EVERYWHERE, thousands of people covering the streets, then multiply it by 17 million. That is Istanbul.

(Keep tracking with me...the thought I mentioned above is coming...)

My host of the first week spoke something simple, yet profound to me that whacked the proverbial nail on the head in my mind. While discussing how some people are called to serve overseas she stated earnestly, "Unless you are 100 percent sure of the calling from the Lord to go, dont. If you are a teacher, teach. If you are an engineer, design. But do what you do to serve the Lord, not just because it is what you do. Serve our Lord."

This woman has lived in Istanbul for over fifteen years giving her life to service. Yet she does this through everyday means, using the gifts God has given her. She knows this is where she is to be. Others back home in the states know they are to be doing exactly what they are doing at the time. Others (like myself) are not so sure at the moment what we are called to, but we still must focus all of our energy on honoring our God who put us in this state of uncertainty, with certainty! Wake up, thank God for another day to breathe, and start looking around throughout your day for ways to share the faith that changed you.

Teach the children in your class the principles your Lord teaches. Show your coworkers the love He gave you that has allowed you to be a different person, a person of faith. When someone walks into your restaurant with a scowl, or your kids come running into the house with mud all over their feet, show them Christ in whatever way you are gifted.

Serve our Lord.

Jesus doesnt want just more people to pack up and leave their hometown. If He asks you to, DO IT. But if He asks you to stay, STAY. Jesus wants His people to be faithful exactly where He has them right now.

Serve our Lord.