A New Season : Diversification

Moving across the face of the waters (Milford Sound)

Seasons of change are on the nearing horizon. Nearly 14 months have passed since I arrived in New Zealand. The role I stepped into upon last year’s arrival has not ceased vocalizing an ever-present hunger of desires. I will complete this role within a matter of weeks, moving into a position that will likely cause minor mental whiplash upon my initiation.

To attempt and summarize the previous months and the role for which I have invested much requires far more than a simple letter. Further reflection may breed more questions than answers. To say I’ve been involved as a Project Manager for the opening stages of a new building project is perhaps fair, but appended to such a title would be the certain inclusion of additional responsibilities: transportation manager, facilities maintenance, supervision & coordinator for weekly work crews, occasional teaching sessions, organizing & leading base prayer sessions, creating budgets for traveling teams, and generally trying to practically intervene where intervention is necessary.

Diversity.

What lies ahead extrapolates diversity from the context of my role at a missions center and plasters diversity across the canvas of my life.

On or around March 23 I will begin a 6-month journey as a School Staff member for the April 2008 Around the World in 80 Days Discipleship Training School (April AW80 DTS). This is an intense period that will focus on the 15 - 20 students who will come for a time in their lives to know God and make Him known. Myself and four other staff members will spend 3-months here in New Zealand with these students growing and walking a journey with them, followed by an additional 3-months out in the world at large. So, the next 6 months holds many unknowns!

What’s life without a bit of diversification?

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Recently my parents came through to visit for a bit over two weeks. I think they had a good time and it was grand to be able to share with this place where I live for a short time.

We covered a southern tour of the South Island together. After some confidence in their 'training', I sent them off on their own on a northern tour of the South Island.

We survived each other - I think - and lived to tell the stories. Here's a few pics.


Mom and I


Dad and I


Mom and Dad at Slope Point


Sheep from coast to coast