We moved to Grand Rapids in August and had temporary housing that placed us next to a school that our kids would attend. I got a job for a school across town about 30 minutes away. We were in a situation where it was hard to make new friends. We tried at church and although contacts were exchanged we hadn’t really been able to do much more than maybe go out for a meal. The kids wanted friends over but we didn’t know who these kids were or who their parents were. It was hard for all of us to connect.
Now we are in our new house and it is really cold so you don’t really see many people out because of that. However, our kids were given a great idea at a recent event for kids at the church. They were given a cookie mix and were encouraged to make it and share it. So last weekend we did just that we made cookies and the kids had a great idea (with the help of Matt) to deliver cookies to our neighbors. I helped make them with the kids but then I tried to get out of actually going with them and wanted to just make Matt.
But we all went and the first few houses were very awkward but good to formally meet who we would be doing life with. Then something great happened we met families with kids and then they showed us who the other families with kids were. Then after a few more houses and only two bags left to hand out something amazing happened. One of the families came back outside with their kids and started to play and then two more and so while the adults were able to talk the kids had a blast making new friends.
God is amazing at prompting us to do uncomfortable things. I find that lately everything is uncomfortable but if I listen to His prompting either through my husband, kids or even coworkers good things will come of it.
So as we go into this time of holidays and time with family, take the time to listen to the holy spirit as he is always working and won’t ever let you down.
Family Matters in Africa 