Herded

If the Lord is my Shepherd, that makes me a sheep. Yup, I can agree with that. I have definitely been herded lately. Let me share some news with you: I have decided to stay in British Columbia for the next 2-3 years to study for a master’s degree in linguistics and exegesis. I don’t have a plan further than that (surprise, surprise), but I know the next step.

A lot of things seem right about this decision. People in my life whose opinions I value have encouraged me to get a master’s degree. My goal has not been to go to grad school, but it appears that my expectations are not always accurate. I’ve been convinced that a master’s degree would be good, and I would really enjoy studying linguistics more. Also, I have always wanted to learn the original languages of the Bible, and studying exegesis will give me that opportunity. I will receive a seminary degree so my options in ministry are still open even though linguistics is part of the package.

A lot of opportunities have arisen while I have been deciding what to do. The financial aid here is really good, and some unexpected money has come to me through other people and jobs I’ve been given (like more hours and higher pay at Dordt). I have good options for housing, and the Lord has given me transportation! I like the community here at CanIL, and it is a great bunch of people with whom to spend the next chunk of life. Although I’m not sure what comes after studying, Bible translation is an option, and I can witness that field first hand here.

Finally, this decision seems right to me because I am not totally in love with the idea. British Columbia is nice, but it makes me feel a bit hemmed in. Langley is the closest thing to a city that I’ve ever lived in, and the Trinity Western campus is kind of isolated. I can’t simply hop on my bike and go whizzing through the streets of subdivisions here. I hardly ever see the stars because the clouds and trees are in the way. I always hear traffic. Yes, there are beautiful vistas and such, but sometimes I need wide open spaces…

Call me a plains girl, I guess.

Before I came, I was worried that I would decide to stay here because it would be the easiest option. I thought I would absolutely love it, and I wouldn’t want to leave regardless of where God was leading. My complaints about BC convince me even more that this is not just my idea. God is definitely nudging me. He’s opening doors, and He’s inviting me to follow regardless of my hesitations and objections. If I really believe that I won't lack anything, I guess I can put my worries about sunshine and openness and travel and work and everything else aside. I will be provided for. 

Thanks for praying for me. I cannot deny God's leading even though it hasn't been a clarion call from the sky. I still don't know what's ahead, but I have been inexplicably nudged in this direction. Herded, prodded, led.The Lord is my shepherd, and he leads me.