The software dictionary on my computer says a deck is a platform like structure, typically made of lumber and unroofed, attached to a house or other building. That's a good description of the space on the west side of our house on Loon Pond. The deck affords us wonderful views of the open sky in all weathers and seasons, most especially glorious sunsets that display the handiwork of God.
In spring we like to set up our screen room and turn the deck into an additional living space, an extension of the house. Then it becomes our favorite destination for working, relaxing, or welcoming family and friends. Besides the superb view of beautiful Maine scenery, the deck is an excellent location from which to observe our grandchildren as they revel in the freedom and joy of the beach - that is, if we're not down there with them.
God has been providing a lot of warm and wonderful memories around our Loon Pond deck. We've opened His Word there as a couple and with others. I've studied the Scriptures with ladies from our church body on those sturdy stretches of lumber. I've also pondered the Savior's redeeming work in my life and sought the Spirit's counsel and guidance there. Many of the posts on this blog were woven together in one way or another around this platform.
As lovely and meaningful as the deck has been for me, for us, the time has come to bid it farewell. God has made it plain that His plan for us includes a move to Europe. The idea was a surprise to us, having settled quite well back into life in New England. We retreated to the Scriptures for direction and were led to Isaiah 6:6-8. We sought counsel from trusted brothers and sisters under the precept of Proverbs 15:22. We were convinced by the truths of Romans 8:28-30, especially as it applies to God's watch care over our children and grandchildren.
Yes, it's an exciting step to undertake. We've lived cross-culturally in the past and found the experience invigorating. It's also a blessing to think that God can use us in such a vibrant way. Yet, it's hard to pull up roots. Those that have been sunk with extensions far back into both of our lives are deep and delicate. Nevertheless, when God calls we know that obedience is the only answer for those that love Him. We're in the middle of this transition as I write this post.
We were given a bit more than a month to make preparations, 10 September to 17 October with a previously-planned 10 day vacation in the middle. It was a whirlwind of activity and emotions. We cherish the support we've received from old and new friends alike that has carried us on our way. We understand the consternation of a few and trust they'll take their concerns to the One in charge of our days. We pray for everyone we leave behind to be as thrilled, delighted, and amazed at the hand of God in their own lives as we are in ours.
We've been in Prague, the capitol of the Czech Republic, for about a week. The Lord chose this city for us and we've been making our way day by day. He's provided a temporary space for us to lay our heads in the home of some new friends. He brought us a visa agent who's hard at work moving our paperwork through the Czech process. We've got month-long passes for the public transportation system. We've been in and out of the city every day without getting lost. We were blessed to worship our Risen Savior with a faithful body of believers. It's a good start.
Don't get the wrong idea. We've had our stretching points. There was the toast that tasted a little funny and caused us to refer to the Czech dictionary. We learned that packets of pork lard resemble butter packets quite a bit. We have to carry maps with us at all times to help us find our way. It's getting a little tiresome to feel illiterate when interacting with people. All in all though it does seem that the Lord has laid out our path in line with Proverbs 3:5,6.
Obviously we will be living in a very different, urban setting. We will be gaining a new perspective on every day life and wonder what the view will be like. Well, the truth is, we have a hint about that. The Lord has opened the way for us to rent a lovely fifth floor apartment. It's situated in a quiet area with a small park nearby with fountains, and a short walk to a central point for travel by metro, tram, and bus. We've already been scouting out the neighborhood and discovered many benefits, such as a mini-market, post office, and various shops.
Since our vantage point is changing, it seems like a good time to revise my blog. I've been wanting to give it a fresh look for a while now and I see this as is a blessed opportunity. The goal will be the same; sharing the glimpses I catch of God's work in my life and in the world around me. The posts will probably be very similar; my thoughts as Adonai refines me according to His wisdom. The window dressing will just be a little bit different though; a European city courtyard rather than a rural Maine lake.
I pray that you'll join me at my new blog. It's called Views from the Loft. Maybe you should pop over there right now and find out how a software dictionary defines the word loft.
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