The Cost

We received word on Friday morning that there was an attack in Mundri the night before. From what we've gathered (it is very hard to get accurate information in situations like these), there was some activity from the military and an important man in town was killed. The local youth then fought back and tried to fight against the military. This became and on-going issue all weekend that left around 75% of the people from town, hiding in the bush. They fled as soon as trouble began and without much warning. Therefore, they had very limited food or resources.

Due to how amazing technology is, we were actually able to keep in contact with some of our friends from Mundri during this process. Will, Justin and I (along with members from the previous team in Mundri) would call people in town daily to check in and see how things are going. Moru people are resilient. They believe very much in the power of God and in His protection. They are very quick to give Him credit for their lives being spared and their families being sustained. We were amazed as they spoke to all of these things during our conversations with them. At the same time, there was great fear in their voices as they spoke at a whisper while trying to fill us in on the latest details and continue to remain hidden in the bush.

The news we got today is that the government is now in control of town things are slowly calming down. We have heard that town was completely looted and shops were broken into. When people gain the courage to go back to their homes and shops, they will most likely find their belongings stolen and rummaged through.

While we were getting the news today about Mundri, I got word that my sister is in labor! She is about to have her third child! I am thrilled for her, but oh, my heart aches to not be there with her. I am mourning the fact that I will first set eyes on my new niece or nephew via a computer screen rather than being able to hold that precious bundle of joy in my arms (although, again, technology is amazing and I'm grateful I'll have the opportunity to see that sweet baby today!).

Through all of our experiences lately, Will and I have been reminded over and over again of the cost of being a missionary. It is so hard to love people around the world because then your heart is left in pieces... all around the world! It killed us to not be with our Moru friends this weekend as they were fearful and hiding in the bush. No, we wouldn't have been able to help. In fact, we would have been more of a hindrance. But, our hearts so badly wanted to be with them as the suffered. We wanted to experience what they were experiencing so that we could love them well through it. At the same time, it is so difficult for me to not be with my sister today. I hate the fact that I cannot be closer to her today or help occupy her other while while she is in labor. It is painful to be so far away from people I love who are in horrible times and extremely exciting times.

Will was listening to a song called, "The Cost" by Rend Collective today. It is a beautiful song and I recommend that you listen to it here. The lyrics struck Will while he was listening to this today because it spoke to where our conversations have led to lately. God has reminded us that the cost of love is worth it. We'll be the first to tell you, this is a hard week to say that in the midst of. Our hearts hurt this week. However, we are convinced that loving people deeply and well is worth the pain it brings... even on weeks like this. Love is always worth it. Following God is always worth it. Even when it leaves your heart in many pieces and leaves you aching to be in many places at once. He is worth it.

I do not need safety

As much as I need You

You're dangerous

But Lord, You're beautiful

I'll chase You through the pain

I'll carry my cross

'Cause real love

Is not afraid to bleed

I've counted up the cost

Oh, I've counted up the cost

Yes, I've counted up the cost

And You are worth it

"The Cost" -Rend Collective