Find Your Identity Amidst Life’s Shifting Seasons
I felt lost without many of the identity markers that had defined me for so much of my life. Missionary kid. Foreigner…
I felt lost without many of the identity markers that had defined me for so much of my life. Missionary kid. Foreigner…
Jesus understands our humanity. He understands our grief. He understands our pain. And instead of chastising us, He weeps with us for the brokenness of this world.
I never expected the parting to be so hard. I never expected to still feel homesick every day three months later. I never expected my heart to feel as though it were trapped in another continent, another country, another home.
As TCKs, we often call ourselves global nomads. It’s a popular phrase used for international wanderers, adventurers, or travelers. But while that term may make it sound like our lives are full of exotic adventure and fun, the reality of a nomad is anything but.
The Bible tells us that all good gifts are from the Father (James 1:17). But when we lose those gifts, it begs the question: if God is truly good, then how can He take away good gifts?
Dear TCK, I get it. I truly do. But no matter how hard we try, we can’t get away from our differentness. The nature of our lives as TCKs and Christians is that God has called us to stand out. He has called us to be a light on a hill. He has called us to go against the tide of the culture. He has called us to serve the audience of One.
“What’s it like to be a missionary?” It’s a question I’ve gotten many times before, especially on furlough. I’m often tempted to reply with a quick, “Oh, it’s great!” but that’s not the full truth …
Change creates so much upheaval. It can leave you feeling lonely and out of place as the “new kid.” It can leave you feeling frustrated and angry because your life seems to be spinning out of control.
Do you hesitate to use your TCK gifts, fearing other people’s opinions? Or do you feel superior because of your experiences? I think we’ve all fallen on both sides at some point. Somehow, we need to balance confidence and selflessness. But how do we achieve this balance?
Moving. You’d think it would get easier after the third, fourth, and perhaps, fifth time. I mean, I should be used to it. As a TCK, it’s a normal part of my life. …