Now what?

Since arriving in Minnesota on February 19th, so much has happened.  We had the special opportunity to be with Andrew’s father during the last days of his life.  He peacefully passed away at home on March 8th and has joined the crowd of heavenly witnesses as mentioned in Hebrews 12.

Untouched photo

“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
Hebrews 12:1-2

It was an honor to be with him when his last breath here was his first breath in heaven.  To be in the presence of the Almighty God, to worship in His presence, oh how we look forward to those days ahead.  We celebrated Brice and honored his military service.  The ceremony at the military cemetery was very moving as seven soldiers shot three volleys from their rifles.  The melancholy sound of Taps brought tears to our eyes as Brice’s day was done, gone the sun.  Thank you for your service, Brice!

The following day’s memorial service was one of tears, laughter, and tender memories.  Andrew shared Brice’s eulogy, his mom shared about the joy we have in Christ, and I shared the poem, The Dash.  We both were moved during our moments of sharing as Brice had a life well lived.  He cared much and loved deeply.  Those that knew him, knew that he loved them, that he cared for them.  Whether mowing someone’s lawn, shoveling their snow, or taking care of something in their home, people knew Brice cared.

With each day, the mourning has eased but there are days where a curve ball of mourning arrives without warning.  Deep breathes and remembering where he is at, no longer struggling to walk, breath, or simply talk, helps to gather our hearts.  God has been ever so present, so close.  Through spending time reading devotionals and the Bible, as well as writing out my thoughts and prayers, His presence is known and brings comfort and confidence for tomorrow.  One devotional book that has been especially helpful is Streams in the Desert.

It’s been a month since his passing, now what?  We have decided to make Minneapolis our home and plan to be available to assist Andrew’s mum in whatever way we can.  There has been a culture shift for us and we are adjusting to our new normal.  The time we spent in New Zealand has planted a mighty oak of memories and love that will not soon fade away.  Every time I see a photo or watch a video posted on social media, my heart smiles and weeps as part of my heart will forever be there.  We miss our dear friends and the team at CCBI, but know that God will make a way for them, as He always has.

Borrowed from https://morguefile.com/photos

We are getting back into the job market, applying for jobs, and interviewing here and there.  We believe that God will open the doors where He wants us and will keep the doors closed where He does not want us.  We both look forward to finding positions where we are growing and supporting organizations.  We have some fabulous ideas on how we want ministry to look like for us in the coming months, but until we can “set up shop”, we are waiting to pursue those ideas.

Thank you for your support as we served in the international missions arena.  Your love, encouragement, prayers, and financial support were pivotal and dearly appreciated.  Even though we are State-side, we are still passionate about serving.  We look forward to all that God has for us here in Minnesota and look forward to serving as He leads.

Much love to you!
Dawn and Andrew McBride