DAY 106 -- Patience Again

Friday at work, my boss announced to all the employees that Bill Partridge was going to be leaving us in four months.  He said that I was going on a mission.  It was very interesting to see the reactions of the employees.

One immediately turned to me and asked, "Why are you doing that?"  Another said, "Why that is wonderful.  Where are you going?"  Most just opened their eyes wide and looked at me.  Some of them are members, some are not.  Some are less active than they should be.  It was interesting to see their reaction to the announcement.

I have known for some time that my boss doesn't want me to go.  I am doing things that not many other employees have done.  I am working for what he pays me.  (Many would say that I am working beyond what he pays me, but that is neither here nor there.)  He has repeatedly told me to reconsider my plans on going. 

Now the whole crew knows that we will be leaving within four or so months.  It will be interesting to see if they are any different towards me or not, knowing that I am a short timer. 

There is never any question in my mind whether I should remain here longer to help the business, or should we go as soon as all things are ready.  When I pause and consider serving Him full time, seeking out those who are waiting, making few friends, being led by the Spirit in His work, and associating with so many others who are serving, I am so excited. I remember coming home from my mission wishing I could be a missionary all my life and not be encumbered with earning a living.

There is much to be done, and Bon and I will be able to do much of it.  The remaining 106 days will go slow. It will be sort of like knowing that a pot won't boil while we watch the water.  Well, I am watching the water and it is surely heating up slowly.  That same old lessons I guess I have never learned is haunting me, that of patience.  Will I ever get it?  Or will that be one of the faults I take with  me when they bury me?  Who knows?  I believe most people in this life are struggling to learn it also.  I am not alone, but I am slow.