Well, it has been a few days since arrival. Actually, it's only been one but i feel as though it's been ages since I left the states. Partly, because of the jet lag and partly, because everything that has gone on since landing in Heathrow. I was greeted at the airport and immediately whisked away to the Tuck house, a family heavily involved at Above Bar and Transform. The Tuck family is so welcoming and charming, I love chatting with them. After about an hour, we went to the 11 am morning service. It is always interesting to see how different churches and cultures worship the same God. I'm not particularly fond of the worship style but I feel that will change once I become accustomed. I met so many people after that service, I hardly remember any of their names or faces. A normal person would go to sleep after such a long flight, but I am not normal.
I had my first English meal after church. I ate gammon, which is ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, and parsnips. While I was anticipating bland food, it was quite flavorful and yummy. One stereotype busted! Actually, not really, because I have had bland food since then. Instead of going to sleep I went to the house I would be staying out, took a nap, and went back to Above Bar for an evening service. The evening service was more my style. I met EVEN MORE people and had lovely conversations. I finally went home and passed out.
I woke way earlier than expected, 7:30 in the morning. I was surprised. I unpacked my bags. I have a wardrobe, just like in Narnia! While unpacking I realized that I have very little clothing, it's amazing how little three suitcases hold when you a weight restriction. I took the bus into town. Now, let me just say, I know that English people drive on the "wrong" side of the rode, I was prepared for that, but I still found my self having mini heart attacks when a car would turn into "on coming traffic." Also, the roads seem only wide enough to be one way, yet are two ways and have cars parked on the street. I feel that helps justify my heart attacks. At church today we briefly discusses everything that Transform is about, what they desire out of the program and us. I love how much Dan and Chris emphasize continual pursuit of our own relationship with Christ and how it's just as important to be poured into, as much as it is important to pour out. There are three other Transform workers, Jules, Luke, and George. I believe that we get along great and will have tons if fun and adventures together.
On the way home, I had a chat with Jules about things The Lord may be challenging her in and how God provides blessings amidst struggles. It was a brief moment but I loved it, and it reminded me about all the Jesus centered discussion I had in Texas. I got home and realized I forgotten to pack some essentials. Recalling a grocery store not far from where I live, I ventured off to the great unknown of Southampton! Ten minutes into my walk, I feared that I went the wrong way, but, I already committed to the path so I trekked on. Thankfully, I succeeded in finding Sainsbury. Once back home, I got to have a conversation with my best friend, Brittany Mercer. It was so nice to hear her voice and know that an ocean will not hinder the level of intimacy in our friendship.
The hospitality that I have received thus far is such a gift. I have witnessed Jesus in everything that has happened in the last few days, confirming that this is where Jesus meant for me to be. Although I do miss everyone and knowing exactly what a person is saying, or knowing that when I say outlet, the person knows I mean a wall socket. These past few days have drawn me closer to Him, so I can only image what eleven months of utter reliance( not that I won't be relying on Him after that, hopefully, you know what I'm trying to convey) can bring forth to my walk.
I totally forgot to tell you about the food, ok here goes. British food is actually pretty good, maybe a little weird but good it's different from what we eat or they have different names. Curry is really good and it is available everywhere even place you don't expect. Pizza is available but once again different I think it's smaller. happy you are having fun and exploring your relationship with Jesus. It is to be expected that different churches or places will have different kinds of services. In my church the mass has not changed very much in 2000 years for example.
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