Contentedness (by Amy)

We have been living in Vermillion for six weeks now. In some ways, it has been easy to adapt to this life. After all, we both grew up in small towns not too far from here; it feels like coming home, especially with our families within easy driving distance. In other ways, however, it has been challenging. We sometimes feel cramped in our little apartment, and we hate being awakened by the patrons of the bar next door. We are just beginning to make friends in the community. It seems like a long time since we had friends over for an evening. For me, the loneliness is compounded by the fact that I haven't been able to get a job in my field and have been spending my days packing parts at the local Polaris warehouse.

These circumstances present a great opportunity for us to practice some of the principles we learned about in Gary Thomas' book Authentic Faith, particularly the discipline of contentment.

Three weeks ago, we went to a family camp with our Fargo church, and it was a blast. It was a joyous occasion to catch up with people we hadn't seen in a long time and to make new friends. When we left, I felt sad that I cannot fellowship with these people on a regular basis anymore. I was already feeling the same grief about our church and other friends in Portland. I decided that moving is too painful, so we should just stay in one place hereafter so we will be spared the pain of leaving friends. Soon, I realized that even if we stay somewhere, we will continue to get separated from friends as they move away or, (we hope not for a long time) pass away.

I realized that what I have experienced and desire so much is the gift of love that God has given to all of us, but which will not be perfected until Jesus ushers in the next age. Until that time, I will always be separated from some of the people I love. But when that day comes, and for all of eternity, I will be able to enjoy their company and that of the Lord who has made this kind of love possible.