When one chapter ends, it can feel like the story is over. It can be hard to see what might come next. Like coming to the end of a book; it can feel like there's going to be a hole in your life that the story used to fill. You've gotten to know the characters; to love them, even. To love sharing in the adventure with them. It's hard to close the cover for the last time.
But this podcast host, who was moving his whole family to a new state and new job, had realized that this major goodbye was not the end of a story, it was simply the end of a chapter. All it would take was a turn of a page, and the story would continue. Yes, the characters might be in a different place. Some may not be in the story as much. Some new ones may appear. Some may have grown. If it's a good story...there better be some character growth! But it isn't the end. It's just setting up for the next thrilling twist of the adventure.
I am coming to the end of a chapter. My time at Mercy Ship's has been incredible. It has been full of challenges. It has woven so many beautiful experiences and characters into my story. Some of those story threads are still unwinding. All of them have taught me, shaped me, molded me, weathered me into someone different than I was before.
There has been heartbreak and healing. I've learned so much about how to love. To really love. The way Jesus did. But boy do I still have a lot to learn.
And that is why, although there is some sadness in my heart, there is also great anticipation.
I don't know what is next.
I haven't quite turned the last page yet.
But I can make out, ever so faintly, the words on the page behind the one I'm on. There is a beautiful mystery in it. It's thrilling and emboldening to know that the Author has already pencilled them in. With creativity and care and so much love.
I can't wait to read them.
I can't wait to live them.
For everyone in this little book club, thank you. Thank you for being part of my story.
I'll see you in the next chapter.
À la prochaine,
-D
