Heb 11: 13b, 16 “…They were strangers and pilgrims on the earth…But now they desire a better country, that is a heavenly one, wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God for he hath prepared for them a city.”

As these faithful ones, so am I a “stranger and exile on the earth.” The reality of this had hit me before, but I’m stunned by the blow again. Can I then compare my lifetime on Earth to my two-to-four-ish years in a given place (for that is how I see me living my life)? Yes, it seems to be a sufficient—if not complete—analogy.

I’ve made myself comfortable here with the understanding that I could be asked to move. In spite of the lack of permanence, I make relationships, develop love for others, and enjoy my time here.

Also, my focus is defined: I am a teacher and a missionary. Thus, with a faint sense of urgency that sometimes becomes more acute, I seek out opportunities to influence lives and eternities for the glory of God. As time nears the end, my heart hurts for these people. I hate to leave them, but we never really leave each other.

NC is my home, but so was SC when I schooled there. Nigeria is also my home. Wherever I live is home. But none of these places are really HOME. Maybe I’m fine with being so transitional because God travels with me and my spirit is at Home with Him.

How wonderful it will be when I have complete permanence with Him in heaven!