Amazing how time flies. So many things I did not fully expect when I was sitting at home one year ago. God, allow my head to be clear, and if there’s anything you would have me say in this moment, please I welcome you to such!
The theme for today: fulfillment. Since I began my college career, God has been consistent in bringing me to this one lesson—one I am not surprised will follow me through ‘til the end of time. God always move most prominently in the little things. Always has. Not a month goes by where I don’t find myself returning to this single topic. Also, how that applies to the spiritual climate in Berlin could have drastic effects of Christ in the city itself. And so, I digress; I have no doubt this will come up again in later posts.
Why would I bring up this subject around Christmas? Besides the not-so-subtle imagery of Christ as a little baby, the celebration of Christmas was intended to be humble. Out here, Christmas looks very different from any of my previous years I can recollect. As I am currently between living situations, there’s no sense in investing in Christmas decoration, making it difficult to feel festive, without the likes of family or old friends to share the spirit with. But, to strip away all that which culture calls “Christmas” what am I left with? After all, even without the normative season, I still feel content! Granted, there is the ache of the “new” and this enduring sense of being uncomfortable in living abroad. However, beneath it all I can’t help but feel like I’m still right where God wants me to be. Christmas is about many things, but one thing that counts in that is that Christmas is a season when God begins to bring to completion all he planned for his creation—completion of the law, renewal of relationship, resurgence and revitalization of world and culture—all spurned from the little thing of Christ.
As I sit here and type this up in a Berliner Café, looking around and seeing a hodgepodge of secondhand-store decorations, random pieces of artwork and plants, and coffee shop music with people frequenting books, I realize I’ve found myself content with where God has placed me! There is definitely a fight to be had spiritually. Darkness abounds, and I have yet to experience the heart of this darkness, Lord willing this cup passes.
With all that said, I may as well have said sweet-nothings. I haven’t said anything new or with substance, apart from just saying I enjoy Berlin. The year is winding down, and marks exactly one year since Berlin starting being in the forefront of my mind and direction. I feel fulfilled out here in Berlin because God has made my way straight and secure. Everything. From support to housing to language school, and all the witnessing potential therein. I’m thankful because there is opportunity everywhere in which God can invade and make himself known.
Another thank-you to all my supporters back home! There are potential ministry developments in the coming few months and I’m excited to sharing come January how everything develops! I pray and meditate that God make you feel fulfilled where you stand at present!