Perhaps it was an off hand comment. But it's a comment I have been fixating on for more than a month now. Thomas Kemper shared a vision of finding a place for 500 young adults to serve in mission. The idea of 500 people my age engaged in mission within the United Methodist Church sets my heart on fire.

I just finished reading a few blogs written by friends. They have returned from living overseas, and it is profound to hear how much their lives have been changed by the experience. You can't turn your back on the reality of having lived out your faith in a different context. It's easy to waiver away from a faith formed entirely within your own context.

I will continue to nurture the fixation on a massive swelling of young adults in mission - a new movement in our missionary community. I will continue to dream and to pray.

Rest

I have had such an enjoyable time resting a bit. Churches tend to run on a fairly fixed schedule - and beyond Sundays and Wednesdays the pickings are a little slim. Now, when I'm back in my home conference I will be driving from church to church and visiting pastors during the week; but here in GA, most of my connections are laity.

I've had a wonderful time resting, reading, visiting familiar places and seeing familiar faces. This time of rest makes me feel that I am ready for the whirlwind of activity waiting for me in Ukraine. It's also really exciting to see all the ministry that I get to be part of here in the states. It's rare that I get to just sit and listen to people share the stories of their church and their faith journey. It's exciting to dream about the future and all of the faith stories that will be enriched through the ministry we are about to expand.

It is good to reconnect. To reconnect with family and friends, but also to the needs and passion of the churches that support us.