My favorite time of day in Phuket is in the morning. There is a cool dewiness in the air, a calmness before the sultry heat of the day takes over. As I stand by the open window a gentle breaze plays on my face, carrying the sounds of the a town stirring and unknown birdsong. I notice the surrounding hills, which the banks of clouds drift over during this rainy season. The hills are full of banana, coconut and palm trees. Nearby the village is stirring. Some dogs yip, and a radio starts to blare Thai in a singsongy voice.
Over the last few mornings I have woken up early and hearing that still small voice calling, have crept downstairs to start my devotions. A new urgency has been planted in my heart, calling me to prepare for the battle ahead and know Christ even more intimatly. These times with God have been a refreshment for my soul like the cool breeze has been to my body. They reasure me of my identity in Christ and my purpose in comming.
What is that purpose? I have asked myself that a few times this week. I have felt impatient to begin "the work", and start into "ministry." Then yesterday Christ gave this verse to me: " 'You are my witnesses," declares the LORD, "and my servant whom I have chosen, that you may know and believe, and understand that I am he. ' " – Isaiah 43:10. It struck me that God calls us into ministry not only so we may bring others to him, but that we may know him on a deeper level too. He longs to have us know him, and knowing his character produces trust, and trust, obedience.
I have already been called to obedience in this week of traveling and waiting, in interacting with 23 other women and sharing life with them 24/7. I have found walls in my own heart that need to be torn down, and defences that need to be built up against the enemy. That is why I am grateful for this week of quiet before the storm, because Christ has been saying "peace, be still" to the storm in my own heart.
