We are creatures of change; one example of this is our everchanging bodies that happens the very moment we are in our mother’s womb to the day we whither in the dirt. Our bodies grow and change over time, but there’s more than just flesh and bones. When we are of age, change starts to already happen within us very subtly amidst our bustling lives. We normally don’t realize the changes until we give ourselves time to slow down and reflect. Or, when someone says, “you changed.” These subtle changes gradually become a part of who we are and locked into our identity; we don’t see them in foresight because they’re usually changes that benefit us. For example, a new job or grade school level. But what about the changes that we are not fine with, and abruptly rip us of the things that have been a huge part of who we are? For one, moving away to a different country where you must relearn how to, literally, live again. The values and beliefs that carried one’s way of life before moving away are now contrary to the entire nation that he or she is now living in. On top of that, one’s character and personality traits must be withheld depending on what’s culturally appropriate in the country he or she will be living in. So then, how can you truly be yourself if you can’t truly be yourself? As you flesh out, what can you still hold on to so that you don’t lose yourself?
As often as not, change seems to be something that scares us; there’s just something about leaving or changing the familiar for the unknown that is so daunting to us all. However, if we carefully think about it, change is not that far off from dying to self as a Christian, other than the spiritual aspect of walking with the Spirit. With that being said, dying to self is nothing new that the devout Christian has ever heard of before, and hopefully it’s nothing new of an experience either. The amazing thing about Jesus’ teaching about dying to self, is that it’s for our good so that we may not be transformed into the ways of the world but become more like Christ. Of course, dying to self is not easy. Similarly, change is not easy but good.
It’s been two weeks since living in Bangkok, Thailand. Although I have settled into the nitty gritty of life, I’ve yet to soulfully settled here. Why? Because every day I am being challenged and stripped of everything I have ever known and am used to: culture, food, relationships, morals, and perspectives. Though, there are also some things in this country that are very familiar to me, yet different enough to keep me on my toes. However, amidst all these challenges and changes I am reminded that the Lord is allowing all these things to happen for my good, as I live in obedience to His global mission. As my soul settles here in Bangkok I know that God is doing great things with it, because what good will it be for me to gain the world but lose my soul. Praise the Lord for His stronghold in my heart, and stirring an affection in my soul for a love for Him and His people.