Well, tomorrow we leave the hotel at 5:45am to catch an 8:00 flight to Beijing. We only a 2 hour layover in Beijing, then off to JFK (praying we make it--China is ALWAYS late), then a 5 hour drive home to Pennsylvania.
I thought this picture was appropriate to say goodbye to China. Here is this little Chinese boy with his panda backpack and his China flag, looking out the window. I won't miss China's culture (as a whole) AT ALL, but I will miss the experience of some of the miracles that happened here. Our lives are now changed forever. God has blessed us with this precious, happy little boy who's love for others is abundant.
I don't think it's a coincidence that my scripture reading from this morning was:
God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him. The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.
John 1:3-5, NLT
Even in the darkness of a country without God, oppressive and chaotic, God was the Light. He was the Light for Jace and for us. When we were feeling empty, missing our families, struggling to keep up with hectic schedules, and otherwise miserable, God was there. He was there in the friends across the world sending me scriptures and encouragement. He was there in my group when I was at my lowest and so sick in Beijing, using these families to nurse me back to health. He was there when I came out of the elevator and found Jace disoriented and walking through the hallway because he left the room while Alex was sleeping! He is here now, in this hotel room, shining HIs Light in my son. My son...This little life was created by God, and this little life brings His light to me. Thank you, God for Your Light and Your glory.
Yes, we are leaving China, but the best part of China is right here in this room with me. The best part of China has a Light that can't be extinguished. And with His glory turning misery into miracles, maybe we will be back. But you'll have to wait and see...
Love and Blessings,
Shannon
