Giving Thanks

Photo credit: tmp-m.org/thanksgiving-prayer

Looking back on the past 9 months that I have been in Papua New Guinea, I have so much to be thankful for:

1. God’s calling. I am so thankful for God’s calling on my life to become a medical missionary here in Papua New Guinea. Looking back, I can see how God was preparing me each step of the way, even before I knew his plans. I am very blessed to be able to serve him and the precious people of PNG.

Ben, Jim, and I

2. Mentors. I am thankful for all the doctors here at Kudjip who have mentored me in the past 9 months. Dr. Jim and Dr. Ben, my surgery partners have been amazing teachers: humble, patient, always available to back me up. I couldn’t have asked for better surgeons to learn from and work with on a daily basis. The other medical doctors have also taught me a wealth of knowledge regarding tropical medicine in a resource-limited environment. More than that, they have taught me life skills on the missions field. 

Thanksgiving dinner

3. Kudjip Family. The missionary families here at Kudjip have embraced me as part of their extended family, and I am so blessed to be able to live and work along-side them all. I am thankful for everyone who has shared meals and fun times; provided rides, a listening ear or good advice; and made me feel loved and valued in the community here. 

4. PNG friends. I praise God for great PNG friends who have taught me the language, invited me to their family gatherings, taught me about the culture, and are always there to share a story or a laugh. 

4. All my friends and family back home. Thank you to everyone who has sent encouraging thoughts and words, prayers, emotional support, financial support, and so much more. Staying connected to people back home helps me stay balanced in the midst of hospital work here.

5. God’s abundant provision. Being in PNG has made me very thankful for the simple things: fairly consistent electricity, hot running water, internet, a bountiful garden, and my furry friend. 

6. Vacations. Last week, I visited a college friend who now lives in Christchurch, New Zealand. More details to come in another post, but it was lovely to visit with her, her husband, friends and family; see the amazing landscapes of the southern island; and enjoy some of the conveniences of Western life.

This year, I am truly thankful for everything and everyone that God has blessed me with.

Happy Thanksgiving.