As our possessions are somewhere on the Atlantic Ocean and we make our final preparations for moving to another country, I find myself reflecting on our new lack of an identity. Where do we belong? We have resigned from our jobs and much of the interaction we have with those in our community is tempered by the knowledge that we are leaving soon. We have loved our home and life here, but our hearts and focus are being directed to our upcoming life and ministry in Odessa.
I can recall from prior experience however, that this lack of belonging will not go away when we arrive in Ukraine. Every day it will be reinforced as we deal with a language and culture that is much different from ours. Our level of proficiency in these areas will increase but there will always be some differences, no matter how long we live there. We will never completely fit in.
I am learning to appreciate that this journey of missions can make me aware of truths I had not previously noticed. Certainly our proficiency must increase in living with and loving people where God has called us to live, but as sinners redeemed by Christ we should deal with this lack of belonging every day we are on this earth. Paul says in Philippians 3:20 that our citizenship is in heaven, reminding us that our true identity is tied not to a location or culture but to Christ Himself. As wonderful as this world can be, we were created for something much more fulfilling. This journey helps me remember that ultimately the question of where we belong must be asked of us not as missionaries, but of all of us as followers of Jesus Christ.
