Update first.. in regards to the interview, I have heard nothing so far, and since they said they would let me know by last Friday, I'm a little disappointed but still trying to hope that there is a possibility that they're just undecided still. We will see.
On Saturday I preached and it went well, the theme was communion and I preached what Paul says in 1 Corinthians about the need to examine ourselves before we take communion. After the preach the pastor got up and talked, I was disappointed as I felt he undermined some of my points, however yesterday just an hour before the church service started I was asked if I could share the same message I had shared with the youth the night before. It was a surprise as I really thought that the pastor hadn't agreed with what I had said.. Having said this I freaked out that I then had to preach and although it was the same message I had double the time to fill (20 minutes > 40 minutes). So I edited and added, and came up with a revised but similar preach and last night it too went really well.
Yesterday afternoon I realised I was missing 100 pesos from my purse (about £17) and since I had been in the house nearly all weekend I'm pretty sure someone from the house took it. So I was pretty annoyed, and disappointed that someone would take it. (Also because this isn't the first time.) I'm telling you this not because I want you to feel sorry for me, but because there is an end to the story! I haven't got the money back, and honestly, I don't think I will. But within the hour I had been given 6 times the amount I lost, for no other reason than "for things that you need". It was such a blessing, not just in that I now have the money.. but also to know that God is really looking out for me, and although the situation hasn't been sorted out completely, I am content that God has control over ever penny.
Otherwise it is just 5 days until I am leaving Salta, my city, and I have started my leaving parties! It seems that every group of friends has to have their own one, though I tried to organise something with everyone, it just wasn't going to work. On Saturday I had a little leaving tea party with the youth, Sunday morning I had a pizza party with my cell group, and last night I had lots of goodbye's to say at church as although nearly all of the youth have promised to come to the bus terminal to wave me off, it was the last time I would see most of the main congregation.
This week I am at the rehab centre tomorrow and wednesday, on which I have my leaving party there. I am really not looking forward to saying goodbye to the kids from the rehab, as I have really felt that my greatest impact as been with them. Thursday night I have a Leaving meal with misc. friends and Friday I have left free because I am sure there will be lots of last minute shopping and goodbye's to be saying, Amongst this I also have two more spanish classes left in order to finish my course before I leave, and random coffee and ice-cream dates to see people for a last time.
Its all very sad that this time next week I will not be in Salta, but also very exciting that I will be seeing everyone at home soon!
As a reminder here is my travel schedule:
9th April Leave Salta by coach 12:00 noon
10th April Arrive in Buenos Aires 08:00
2 days in BA saying goodbyes and having a meeting or two.
12th April Leave BA by plane 15:45 (ARG TIME)
12th April Arrive in Sao Paulo 18:30 (BRA TIME)
12th April Leave Sao Paulo 23:45 (BRA TIME)
13th April Arrive in London Heathrow 15:00 (UK TIME)
13th April Leave London 16:30 (UK TIME)
13th April Arrive in St.Annes 22:00 (UK TIME) -- Depending on traffic and the driving of me folks!
Last week I had my debrief here, which consisted of an evaluation and an explanation of reverse culture shock. Now although many people don't suffer from 'reverse culture shock' I already know that from my 3 week trips to Bulgaria I do. Every time I came back from Bulgaria I spent my first few weeks frustrated, confused and in some cases angry with God. Because I couldn't do enough, because many times what I saw in Bulgaria seems/ed irrelevant to England of because a lot of the time there is an 'out of sight, out of mind' approach to mission, and needs. I don't know how I will cope coming back to the UK now, but I know I am really not going to find it easy, not just missing people, but it really is another world here, and I have adjusted to a completely different way of living. One that doesn't lend itself to England, and so I ask you to pray for me in this way, and to encourage me when I get home, that out of sight is not out of mind.
Prayer Points
- The Message Job, I will hear soon, and that whatever the answer I'd know God is in control.
- Money, praise God for his providence, and also for the "brothers and sisters" I have in the house.
- That I would enjoy my last week saying goodbyes and be able to think positively about the future.
- For safe travels!
- For 'reverse culture shock'.
Thank you for all your support!
See you soon!
