One for the kids

Part of me has always been envious of people who were both good at writing and had discipline to keep it up. I’m more into photo journalism so many have probably noticed that my facebook page (Www.facebook.com/rebekah2jordan) has become a yearbook of activities with my students and the other children at the school. I have actually written several blogs in the last 2 months, but have posted none of them due to high emotions at the time of writing. 

This first half of the school year has flown by. Yes, there a few more weeks, but we have been busy putting up Christmas trees and decorating the room and talking about the holiday. I brought in 5 homemade pumpkin pies (Thank you mom for bringing me the cans of pumpkin) AND I have the privilege to work with amazing teachers and co-workers who encourage the holiday.

This is in stark contrast to Christmas in schools in the states where “Happy Holidays” is the only politically correct remark for this time of year in the states. Regardless of the irony of this situation, I am loving experiencing the holiday season here in Jordan. A bookstore near my flat has had Christmas decorations up for over a month, my friends and I sing Jingle bells in Arabic… or... they do… and I kind of mumble along… I was able to gather for a Thanksgiving celebration with a group of friends who hardly knew me but treated me like family as we sang random songs, and I have been blessed at every turn.

But things are not easy here. Sure, comparatively my life is pretty easy. And a lot of my expat friends have talked about the adjustment being rough. For me, the language is the hardest part, but other than that there is a sense of home. I know I am where I’m supposed to be and can be confident in that so I try to be culturally sensitive and adjust when necessary, but over-all it has been a relatively easy transition for myself. However, all the reading in the world can never prepare you for the stories you hear on a regular basis and things are only getting increasingly more difficult.

One of my first few weeks here I heard of a child whose father was offered 10k JOD to marry her. The Girl was only 10 years old. Shortly after that, BBC news and Al Jezeera both reviewed similar stories happening in refugee camps. My friends, they have little money and international support has run out just before winter. The need is greater than ever and yet they are pulling out now.  Soon after we heard stories of abuse with children in the school, another’s father was “lost” in Syria. There are now a few Iraqi students that are new to the school. A few weeks ago, I was able to pray for a friend's family who lost a child in a shooting in Syria. 

With all the news of deaths and killings around the world, my heart is broken for the children who grow up in such environments who can hardly imagine a peaceful upbringing. Shouts or loud noises sets some of the children off in tears. A sudden movement or touch from behind put a child into panic. No child should have to suffer from PTSD. So often I hear of people arguing for the “sanctity of life” for unborn children and yet so often that is where the cries seem to end and for me that is only the start. I love the children of the school. I would claim any of my students if ever necessary. Ana Momma. Ana Momma. I’m mom. To some of these kids I am mom. I don’t always understand what they are trying to tell me…. More accurately, I occasionally figure out what they are trying to tell me… but I love them with all my heart. But I’m becoming increasingly more aware of news around me and the discrepancies from what I hear vs what I see. I grieve for loss of life, even those deemed “necessary” by all other accounts.  

Sometimes, I wish people could see the world through my eyes, but unfortunately we can only know what we seek and sometimes we don’t know the questions to ask. And also unfortunately, there are always limitations to what can be reported.

But continue to pray for the unrest over here. Jordan is currently home to many refugees of Syrian, Iraqi, and Palestinian backgrounds and barely able to meet their needs. The churches that I am connected with are doing what they can, but resources are already limited. 1.7 million Syrian refugees live in the region between here, Lebanon, Iraq (for now), Turkey, and Egypt, but UN funding is depleted as of December according to a number of sources. 64 Million dollars is needed to provide through December ALONE.

The sad reality is that for many, UN was the only aid they were receiving. Their homes are multiple families sharing small flats just barely scrapping by. And most of the refugees are children.

*~*~*~*~*~*~Rebekah Is In Jordan : How To Support Pray4MiddleEast.~*~*~*~*~*~*

For cash or check please send charitable donations to Global Treasury Services. Checks should be made payable to General Treasurer Church of the Nazarene at: 

Church of the Nazarene

 P.O. Box 843116

 Kansas City, MO 64184 

and memo should include the following information: 1. Amman, Jordan 2. Rebekah Musselman. 3. Mission Corps.

Donations can also be given online:Donation Site

Food and other things

Month 2.

I cannot believe that I have already been here 2 months and I have already learned so much. Unfortunately, unlike many of my western friends here, I am not taking language classes. I really wish I had the chance, but it is hard with my schedule. So I have been using an app for my phone and computer called Memrise to learn Levantine Arabic (this region) and trying to practice with the kids and have the teachers laugh at me as I slowly figure things out. There are some sounds that my American tongue just hasn't figured out yet... and other sounds that are more throat based and I'm not sure I hear the differences in what they say verses me.... but one day! (Inshallah) Lessons would be nice, but I am still making progress and my roommates (who are taking lessons) come back and we practice together. 

Food here is A-ma-zing. Seriously, I could live off this food for forever. Breakfast is far different in the states. (And more healthy) The children typically bring some sort of zatar or mona'ish (flat bread with olive oil and thyme and some other seasons) and vegetables like cucumbers. I often eat salad for breakfast.... yes, for breakfast... and by breakfast, its more like second breakfast because its around 10am. Then lunch is at like 2ish and then dinner around 7. I'm within walking distance of a place called "Dream Chicken" which... the food is good value... not quite a dream but better than Taco Bell. Then, there is an English center that my roommates work at that has a Shawarma place near by, and I've had a couple home visits that have involved Mansaf! (Best. Thing. Ever.) 

Mansaf: Rice, Lamb, Jameed (special yogurt) 

About a year ago, I was sitting in a class talking about discussions of different cultures and faiths. The question was raised "What is the best way to broach these subjects" and then the professor looked at me... Being a night class and slightly tired, I (half giggling) answered "over a meal." But the reality is that food is pretty universal. Everyone must eat. If we at least TRY to eat like our friends (My Jordanian friends are going to show me the proper way to eat mansaf...with your hands) then there is room for mutual respect. It is an easy bridge to starting discussion. Why is lamb such a major food here? How is the rice prepared? How long does it take to prepare the Jameed? (Its quite the process) Why does one eat with their hands? These questions start a dialog that helps to break down cultural differences and builds up understanding. 

What did the Disciples do? They broke bread together. When Jesus visited homes, there was usually a meal involved. Food is a pretty important part of building relationships and community and despite me meaning to be a little sassy with my answer about meeting over a meal, it is very true. 

Home visits are one of my favorite things about living here. The people are so warm and welcoming but most of them have a meeting place to have guests come and sit. And the guests are served coffee, tea, or other drinks using a tray. (Always a tray). There is a part of building relationships that recognizes the need to provide for the other person's needs and food is one of the most basic elements of that. Pretty amazing to me. 

I've been practicing some home made food items at my apartment because I have to be a little more creative with the ingredients that I find. But hopefully I can have some of my friends here for an evening. Hospitality goes both ways! 

Aside from the food and fellowship, I'm learning the sad realities of homes for some of my students.

I ask for prayer for many of the families were abuse seems to be prevalent. It breaks my heart. One child has even taken to calling me mama. I can't help but try to love on these kids as much as possible. 

Specific disorders and issues don't seem to be as well known here. Cerebral Palsy and ADD(ADHD) are just two that I'm at least fairly certain about and I wonder if a couple are slightly dyslexic or have other learning disabilities. My lack of language makes it hard for me to pick up on some of the clues of the more "subtle" issues, but the teachers are willing to listen and we try to figure these things out together and for that, I am grateful. 

Prayer for the church and the people here in general. There is growing fear about the future though many are confident in the abilities of the authorities in this nation. But in whispered talks there is fear in their eyes and it makes me wonder how much we don't know even though we live in the middle of all of this. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~Rebekah Is In Jordan : How To Support Pray4MiddleEast.~*~*~*~*~*~*

For cash or check please send charitable donations to Global Treasury Services. Checks should be made payable to General Treasurer Church of the Nazarene at: 

Church of the Nazarene

 P.O. Box 843116

 Kansas City, MO 64184 

and memo should include the following information: 1. Amman, Jordan 2. Rebekah Musselman. 3. Mission Corps.

Donations can also be given online:Donation Site 

Jordanian Hospitality

I was warned this would happen. I've been sick for about the last 2 weeks. First week was mostly just a cold, but bout the time I was getting over that I came down with a flu. I am thankful for the wonderfully, kind people of this country. The pharmacy down the street and owned by a very nice man who helped me get the right meds and all the teachers messaged and texted me letting me know they would get me anything if I needed it.

Aside from being sick, teaching has held its own set of challenges. Mariam and I are new at teaching, but we had no idea the difficulty of teaching the 4 and 5 year olds how to write lets and numbers. We are finally making some progress. I think the trick has been for Mariam and I to figure out how to teach the kids. But we are having the most fun and the kids are wonderful. I missed a day from being sick, but they sent pictures saying hi and had been asking for Miss Rebekah. That just made me smile when I walked into the class room and saw the kids just that much more excited to see me there. :) 

Aside from school, I now have two wonderful roommates from Norway. They like to ride penguins to school and have pet dragons and are related to many notorious vikings as all Norwegians are. (Just kidding) But we have had a blast learning more about the city together and figuring out the different forms of transportation available to us as well as miserably fail at trying to speak the language and just laugh. They are teaching English at a school for adults near us. We spend many of our evenings working on our different lesson plans at the same time and talking about the many weird rules in English. They speak excellent English, but trying to explain the rules when it isn't you're native tongue can be difficult. Trying to explain it when it IS your native tongue can be interesting. 

Overall, my experiences thus far have been surreal even now. I can't believe that I am living in this dream and that it has already been 6 weeks. Everyone I meet is just excited to give me the chance to know the real Jordan and real them. They want me to see the Middle East for what it is and that can be summed up in one word. Hospitality. Home visits have been one of my biggest joys. People will just come over unannounced and share a time of coffee, chatting, and breaking of bread....pita bread with a bit of hummus. They will never let you go hungry. I have been almost force-fed on more than one occasion and apparently need to eat like a Jordanian, but I am always caffeinated and enjoy my time with everyone. 

But this really opens my eyes to the culture of the Bible and makes it all more real that in many ways, that is how they lived back then. People were expected to take care of the visitor. They went out of they way to make sure needs were met. The disciples shared everything, the good Samaritan went out of his way to help a man who wasn't even in his own "group." But none of that matters. Even at the school, there is a family-like mentality and I'm wrapped in the middle like the precious one that everyone wants to look out for. I appreciate and am humbled by their generosity and hospitality more than they can ever imagine. 

I am really, really blessed. 

Praise God for what He is doing and what He has done.

***P.s. More pictures on the way! We will be doing some things with Olives with the students here soon and I have introduced many teachers to the wonders of Pinterest.... Or I utilize pinterest and they think I have wondrous ideas.... :D

*~*~*~*~*~*~Rebekah Is In Jordan : How To Support Pray4MiddleEast.~*~*~*~*~*~*

For cash or check please send charitable donations to Global Treasury Services. Checks should be made payable to General Treasurer Church of the Nazarene at: 

Church of the Nazarene

 P.O. Box 843116

 Kansas City, MO 64184 

and memo should include the following information: 1. Amman, Jordan 2. Rebekah Musselman. 3. Mission Corps.

Donations can also be given online:Donation Site

Still processing it all

I cannot believe how quickly the last 3ish weeks have gone. It has been crazy, it has been busy and rarely a dull moment.

Children are crazy, people are wonderful, and I'm learning a lot. Still processing a lot of what is happening here on this side of the planet as one might imagine. But Instead of a long, well worded blog post about things I can't really describe anyway, I have a quick video. I'm sure there will be more through the year.

*~*~*~*~*~*~Rebekah Is In Jordan : How To Support Pray4MiddleEast.~*~*~*~*~*~*

For cash or check please send charitable donations to Global Treasury Services. Checks should be made payable to General Treasurer Church of the Nazarene at: 

Church of the Nazarene

 P.O. Box 843116

 Kansas City, MO 64184 

and memo should include the following information: 1. Amman, Jordan 2. Rebekah Musselman. 3. Mission Corps.

Donations can also be given online:Donation Site

Eight Days In

"Its ok to have a political opinion about something, but the minute that the political opinion cause you to become prejudice against another people group, you lose the heart of God."--With God on our Side (2010)

My heart is full and yet so heavy as I reflect on what we have seen this last week.

Yesterday was the first time I just wanted to curl up in a ball and cry and yet I can rejoice in His Name as well.


It is hard to reconcile the world around us when a little girl is abused by a local shop owner, where a religious leader offers her father 10,000 JD for her "hand in marriage" despite being no more than 10, where a girl of about 7 has been through so much that she has tried to kill herself multiple times. And yet, these kids have a safe place to go where they are shown love and acceptance. They have learned songs and can praise God and sing about Him.

  (The kids took my phone and took some pictures--Precious!)

 

I truly believe that worship music is meant to be a prayer. When we sing "break my heart for what breaks Yours" if you really mean it, He will do it.

But I can't focus just on the negative despite it feeling like the world is exploding around me. You have given me an opportunity to pour out love and hope and stability as God intended. You have provided support and the physical ability for me to come along side people here and learn what it means to serve and learn with it means to be "the body."

My heart is broken and I'm sure it will continue to break as I learn more; however, there is hope.

*~*~*~*~*~*~Rebekah Is In Jordan : How To Support Middle East.~*~*~*~*~*~*

For cash or check please send charitable donations to Global Treasury Services. Checks should be made payable to General Treasurer Church of the Nazarene at: 

Church of the Nazarene

 P.O. Box 843116

 Kansas City, MO 64184 

and memo should include the following information: 1. Amman, Jordan 2. Rebekah Musselman. 3. Mission Corps.

Donations can also be given online:Donation Site

Well... I made it!

18 hours after leaving my family and Fiance, I finally landed in Jordan!!!

My little sister got some video I believe. Can't believe it is already Thursday here... I lost like half a day, but found my home.

The Wrights have been giving me pieces of orientation last night and this morning. They couldn't believe how alert I was so late last night after long day of travel.... I must confess that I managed to sleep most of the 11 hour flight without realizing it.

 (One moment we were over Canada, the next we were over Italy...woops) But despite the extra sleep, I still managed to get a full nights rest and ready to take on the day!

Hopefully I will be able to add more pictures here soon. We will be going around the city and showing me the do's and don'ts and most importantly, the places to eat. ;) Hoping to meet with some of the different directors that I will be working with soon. Thus far, I have had several e-mails of welcomes and excited to be working with everyone and see what the Lord has done and is doing!

May I be compelled

[Wrote this about 6 months ago and finally publishing. I have already come so far and in just under 4 and a half days, I'll be getting on a plane. I'm just in awe...]




Long ago I heard the call.

A call I couldn't help but hear.

Like that constant ringing in my ear

               from a subtle alarm after a restless night sleep. 

And for me, I couldn't say no.

Even after everything that was told...

"But its dangerous"

          they say...

"There is war"

          I know...

But I'm compelled by something greater. 

I was told that I HAVE to go.

So in my time that I've waited, 

I've thought and contemplated, that maybe I was wrong.

Voices in my head tell me so many directions, how can I know if I'm taking the right path.

And yet, here I am.

By some grace of God I am here. 

With a voice shaking as the one I imagine possessed by a prophet with unclean lips.

I can't say that I can predict the dangers before me, 

But there is no greater place in than in the arms of the one who was scarred, nailed to a tree.

Realistically,

           There is no reason for me to be going.

Statistically,

            There is not logically the path someone "like me" should choose.

But it doesn't matter. 

Everyday I read the news—and my heart breaks a little more.

             Shattered into as many pieces as their homes and nations as I picture their faces and I cry. 

Everyday is one day closer to me leaving for 1 year, which could mean eternity for someone else.

Transformation—planting Seeds

               Its not up to me to decide the outcome that I may or may not see.

I can't even for sure say what I will be doing.

Bits and pieces I understand, but how a business major is teaching English as a part of this grander plan, I have no idea.

But this isn't the first, nor the last time God calls those who feel inadequate. 

In fact, I'm sure those types of people are His favorite.

I'm compelled to go, but I can't lean on me.

I'm striving to listen even if the road isn't something I can see.

He has provided every step. 

All I need to know is that He is for me. He goes with me. 

I couldn't just wait for my call 
                as if God is gonna pick up the phone and give it a ring.

Two-Thousand years ago call was already left for me.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*Rebekah Is Jordan Bound: How To Support M.E.~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

For cash or check please send charitable donations to Global Treasury Services. Checks should be made payable to General Treasurer Church of the Nazarene at: 

Church of the Nazarene

 P.O. Box 843116

 Kansas City, MO 64184 

and memo should include the following information: 1. Amman, Jordan 2. Rebekah Musselman. 3. Mission Corps.

Donations can also be given online:Donation Site

Procrastination Ponderings and Many Thanks

As the title might suggest... I'm sitting in my room, literally surrounded by all my belongings in what FEMA deem a disaster zone....

The truth of the matter is that I can't believe how quickly this last year has flown by.
The truth of the matter is that I am avoiding closing the last bag because there would then be a sense of finality to the leaving process.
The truth of the matter is I am so excited to go and serve and see God move and work (in both small and large ways. I'm confident in both)
But (final one) the truth of the matter is that I cannot believe how much stuff I have accumulated over the years despite my best efforts to throw things away.

About 7 years ago (cannot believe its been that long) I went to Armenia and I saw the world at what I would have considered its worst. Museum showed the travesty of a genocide that has been long debated over the years, people were still living in rubble and metal boxed cars, and I cried for them. It was the first time I had really left the country and the first time I had experienced poverty in a real and tangible way. When I realized that many of the girls had roughly 2-3 outfits  and I realized I had packed more than what they owned in a suitcase for just 11 days.

Since then, I've experienced and seen poverty in many places: Inner-city Chicago, Indy, Fort Wayne; Honduras; Haiti; and Mexico. And even still I feel like those experiences are so quickly forgotten and every bit of room I have has been filled up with things that I just don't need. I have been putting things in plastic bins for when I get back and eventually move after wedding (3/19/16 to Seal the Deal if anyone is wondering) but I can't help but wonder if there are better ways to distribute these belongings. Obviously if I can part with them for year, I'm not that attached, right?

Perhaps I'm thinking too much about this, but with wedding plans and packing and life moving so fast, I have found myself contemplating my dreams vs. reality and contentment vs wishes. The more room I have and the more space I give myself, the more I want to fill it with randomness... books actually... mostly books. Didn't realize how many I actually had and I've gotten rid of a lot too. But the fact of the matter is ultimately they are just things. I've never wanted the "American dream" with the house and white picket fence and 2.5 children and a dog... well I would like a dog and a few kids, but those aren't things that define me or my value so why live in such a way that its built around achieving those things rather than getting closer to God?

Praying the Lord helps me to learn to live more simplistically this next year. (I'm sure Bradley is praying in agreement haha) At the end of the day, I can't pack it all up and take it with me to Jordan. At the end of my life, I can't say that this stuff has really done me any good. When I finally reach Heaven, Lord willing, none of it will be going with me anyway, but in the mean time I get to deal with it. Praying I use the resources given to me, wisely. I'm praying that I am reminded to not take anything for granted. The Lord owns it all and provides what is needed. He has shown me in the last several months that I can Fully Rely On God (FROG) in all things. *Would be cool to find FROG and WWJD bracelets again* The Jordan opportunity was a miracle and God ordained. Assuming that the rest of the monthly donations come in, I am 101% funded despite having only really started fundraising about 4 months ago. If I receive a roommate, its 130% [Edit: Any donations left or over what is needed will be left for ministry needs]
God provides and provides over and above what we ask for.

So why do I need so much?

I guess I can relate to Paul in Philippians 4:18-19 "I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus."

My church, friends, family have blown my mind in the way that they have gone above and beyond to help support this calling. There is a calling on all of our lives to go and make disciples. Sometimes, "going" is actually to help send someone for you. Like the Epaphroditus church who supported Paul, I have been sent by all of you and praying the Lord uses me in His will. Its all about His will.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*Rebekah Is Jordan Bound: How To Support M.E.~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

For cash or check please send charitable donations to Global Treasury Services. Checks should be made payable to General Treasurer Church of the Nazarene at: 

Church of the Nazarene

 P.O. Box 843116

 Kansas City, MO 64184 

and memo should include the following information: 1. Amman, Jordan 2. Rebekah Musselman. 3. Mission Corps.

Donations can also be given online:Donation Site

A wizard is never late

LIFE IS CRAZY!!!

In the last month I have:

1. Graduated from Olivet. 
2. Played Piano for a wedding, 
3. went to Minnesota, 
4. worked on HR related things... was actually a lot.. more to do
5. played worship for 2 straight weeks of camp
6. lead worship at my home church for 2 morning services and 1 evening service.

and oh yeah... 

GOT ENGAGED!!!! :D

I have to brag a moment. My fiance is quite amazing. Never mind the epic beard, but who else would be so supportive a person who is choosing to leave for a year? He knew from the time we met that this was on my heart, he was there when I got the call that this could be reality and he is helping me develop into a better person every day.

So back on topic... "A wizard is never late, nor is he early. He arrives precisely when he means to." 

I love reading, I love books, I love Lord of the Rings. Hence the title/quote. This is also something I've been learning over the last 4 years. My ability for timing is awful. I would never make a good drummer.

I guess, theologically, I shouldn't compare God to a Wizard but in my exhaustion from the last couple weeks, that was the first title that came to mind.

God has been so good. There have been multiple times where I've had mini freak-outs because I haven't gotten responses as quickly as I'd hope or funding wouldn't be quite to where I was hoping and in the midst of it all, God hasn't necessarily provided when or how I expected, but in the ways I have needed it.

The last 2 weeks in particular have been absolutely crazy. A Senior High camp, a weekend of engagement fun and a church service, then Jr High camp and a few more services without time for a break. I have been running on empty, but God has provided the strength needed to not just "get through" each of these things, but proven to dwell in His house despite of my flaws and allow us to worship Him.

If I've learned anything in my small experience with missions, things never happen the way you expect. I am going to teach English. I am going to serve. I am going to love. I am giving an opportunity for my friends and family partner with me and learn more about the Kingdom of God. :) I know that there is a place for me to sleep and people that I can rely on. Some ask how I don't know more specifics... when God is in the details and I know what I need to for this time. I am at peace and that is all that matters.

I know there will be times out on the field where I feel overwhelmed as I have these last couple weeks. But God has proven time and time again how He will work most when I am at my least <3 br="" god="" good.="" is="" nbsp="" so="">

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*Rebekah Is Jordan Bound: How To Support M.E.~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

For cash or check please send charitable donations to Global Treasury Services. Expenses should be made payable to General Treasurer Church of the Nazarene at: 

Church of the Nazarene

 P.O. Box 843116

 Kansas City, MO 64184 

and memo should include the following information: 1. Amman, Jordan 2. Rebekah Musselman. 3. Mission Corps.

Donations can also be given online:Donation Site

New Beginings

For as long as I can remember, I've always had a plan. A plan to take business classes in high school, jobs to get me experience. I was accepted into college before many of my friends even started applying. And I already had this missions experience process started before many of my friends knew what jobs to even apply for.

But now Graduation has come and gone:

Best/Goofiest parents ever.

But now I'm off on a new beginning.

He's really sad to not see me for a while... praise for skype: Praying4ADarcy

67 days, 1 hour, and 40 minutes (from the time that I type this) I will be headed to the other side of the world. http://w2.countingdownto.com/561876

I now officially have 50%!!!

That is enough to get me there.... not quite enough to get me back....or food...

It has been crazy seeing God supply people and encouragement and everything required of me to go. I'm still in need of prayer, and some financial support, but God is proving everyday His provision comes first.

I'm just so blessed beyond words!!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*How To Support M.E.~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

For cash or check please send charitable donations to Global Treasury Services. Expenses should be made payable to General Treasurer Church of the Nazarene at: 

Church of the Nazarene

 P.O. Box 843116

 Kansas City, MO 64184 

and should include the following information: 1. Amman, Jordan 2. Rebekah Musselman. 3. Mission Corps.

Donations can also be given online: Http://web.nazarene.org/goto/rmusselman and look for the MAKE A DONATION button under the picture.

Let's take a walk

It never ceases to amaze me that it is the little things that we forget to hold on to, but the things that wish we remembered the most.

3. 5 years ago I went on a trip of a lifetime that changed my life and challenged everything about my views and my faith. One of the last days in the beautiful city of Jerusalem, I took a picture every few steps from our housing to the church we worked. These are just a few of the sites. (Video to follow this summer)

A step out the door and to the left from the place that became our home for the 2 weeks we were there.

The stones in the walls and each step held more history than I could even fathom, but my story was being written along each step.

We continue on our walk early in the morning, long before the shops open and the Old city of Jerusalem becomes the bustling market place I imagined from reading Bible stories, but they were no longer stories.

Walking down the Via Dolorosa, we take the same steps the Christ took. Each painful step before reaching Calvary and changing the world. Each painful moment before dying for our sake.

We then stop by the only little shop open first thing in the morning. An opportunity to build a relationship as we stopped by every day during our time there to stock up on local snacks before our day of work.

Every day, my heart would break as I saw women try to sell produce. Many of them disabled in some way, but trying to provide in anyway that they possibly can.

Main gate

 Finally, we reach the opening of the Damascus Gate. Historically known as "The Gate of Victory," one can look to the side of the main gate and see the old Roman gate.




And then our walk through the newer part of the city. Where a little ways down the road was a place called "Garden Tomb." A tranquil place of prayer and reflection. Trees gave shade to harsh sun, and rocks provide a place to sit and bask in the presence of God.

                                                       

Our walk to and from the little Church in Jerusalem was roughly a mile. Everyday, God was speaking truth into our lives and leaving an imprint that none of us can forget. And one thing I knew for sure was that I was called back. 

Now I have the chance, but its only with the support and prayer from my friends and family. I can't tell you all of what I will be doing because I just don't know yet. I can't share cultural insight because as much as I have read, it still won't translate until I can put it into practice. But I can share in the excitement that God has put on my heart for this area of the world. 

Not everyone can go, so help me go for you.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*How To Support M.E.~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

For cash or check please send charitable donations to Global Treasury Services. Expenses should be made payable to General Treasurer Church of the Nazarene at: 

Church of the Nazarene

 P.O. Box 843116

 Kansas City, MO 64184 

and should include the following information: 1. Amman, Jordan 2. Rebekah Musselman. 3. Mission Corps.

Donations can also be given online: Http://web.nazarene.org/goto/rmusselman and look for the MAKE A DONATION button under the picture.

Perfect love casts out all fear

I've been told that successful people write down their goals. As a business major, one of my classes had us create a "Personal Strategic Plan" and basically write down all of our strengths, weakness, words of wisdom, and goals that we hope to remember as we continue on this crazy path we call life.

I was looking up my personal Mission Statement (because I need it for another class) and this is what I had written.

My vision is to live out the great commission in every aspect of my life. Acts 1:8 states that we are called to make disciples of all nations going out into Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. As life takes me on this twisting journey, I shall prevail to continue to live out Christ’s calling on my life in building character, relationships, and leaders. In this way, I can live a full and satisfying life for the one who created me to serve and build-up His kingdom.

Still true today. Then I took a look at my goals.

Well it looks like I might get to check number 1 off my list. :) These are the 3 things that God put on my heart. These are the 3 things that, despite business and free-market getting a bad rep, I hope to be able to use my skills to work towards. God has a plan in all of this. 

I'm called to the mission-field. I was called to be in this area of study. Didn't make sense to me then and sometimes even now I question it, but God has shown me too many amazing people who, like me, are using Business as a form of ministry. (Among other acquired, God-given gifts such as teaching English)


Google search Jordan and what you'll actually find is an extremely tall and talented former basketball player... that is not what you're looking for. Find the country.

Notice the surroundings?? Syria, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Syria. We're talking pretty much the center of the Fertile Crescent. It looks from pictures to be one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen. And from what I have read, some of the nicest people.

People ask me if I am scared. And the answer is NOPE! God is calling me there and I know He has His plans. But from people who have been there, it is one of the most kind and generous countries one can visit.

Hospitality is one of the key values in the Middle East. We forget because of media that many of these people are just people with families who have jobs and trying to do right by their perception of God. Gift giving is another key value (one that I am personally terrified of because I'm awful at gifts for normal times in the US... but we'll work on that) 

The more I've learned about their culture, the more parallels to the Bible I see. My mind has read scripture in a whole new way. This is a collective society where everything is done in a "we" form so when Jesus says to reject your family and leave EVERYTHING to follow Him, I've always read it from a personal perspective. Jesus literally meant that they would lose everything. Shame and dishonor for the sake of doing what is right? The were brought into a new family. The family of God, but to take that step meant more than I could ever imagine. I saw the persecution has a physical thing from those who hated Christians. Which it was, but to hate family?

But this opened then my eyes to Acts where it said they shared everything and everyone was without need. Sharing and community. And 2000 years later, these are still the values that they hold on to. Christian, Muslim, Jew--They are still people. They are collective to their respective groups. They are collectively lost. They are collectively misunderstood. 

A friend of mine spent a good amount of time in a creative access country last summer and he made this point: fear is the biggest motivator to not follow the Lord. Nothing is safe. Nowhere is safe. Only a life following the Lord's will is "safe." 

Perfect love casts out fear. And perfect Love only comes from the One who is Love.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*How To Support M.E.~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

For cash or check please send charitable donations to Global Treasury Services. Expenses should be made payable to General Treasurer Church of the Nazarene at: 

Church of the Nazarene

 P.O. Box 843116

 Kansas City, MO 64184 

and should include the following information: 1. Amman, Jordan 2. Rebekah Musselman. 3. Mission Corps.

Donations can also be given online: Http://web.nazarene.org/goto/rmusselman and look for the MAKE A DONATION button under the picture.

Ask and You shall receive.

There is one thing that I hate doing above all things.

Ask me to sing or speak in front of a group of people-- no problem.

Ask me to kill a spider.--No big deal.

Ask me to eat something I've never seen before--its gone.

Ask me to ask for money---I choke.

Maybe it is a pride thing, maybe it's fear of rejection, maybe it is understanding that times are hard for a lot of people to give. I have always been taught to do things myself, but this is one time that I cannot. This is God's will and so He will come through.

I have about the first $1,000, but there is still 12,000 to go and only a few months. Please, prayerfully consider sponsoring me over the next year. At least half of my goal is necessary before being able to purchase the plane ticket. We are hoping that I am able to leave in August so that only leave a few short months.

The cost (13,000) includes housing and food for each month (each about 400 for 12 months), flight to and from field (1600), visa costs $300, and other ministry expenses and utilities.

Donations including things to sell or raffle, airfare miles, or sponsoring a specific need would be much appreciated. I am also planning on working full time while home and wish to meet with people individually to talk more about the assignment as I learn more about what it means to serve in Jordan.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*How To Support M.E.~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

For cash or check please send charitable donations to Global Treasury Services. Expenses should be made payable to General Treasurer Church of the Nazarene at: 

Church of the Nazarene

 P.O. Box 843116

 Kansas City, MO 64184 

and should include the following information: 1. Amman, Jordan 2. Rebekah Musselman. 3. Mission Corps.

Donations can also be given online at Http://web.nazarene.org/goto/rmusselman and look for the MAKE A DONATION button under the picture. 

Whom then shall go for Us?

Many of you know that I have had the privileged to work in the MIA (Missions in Action) for Olivet. It has always been one of my strongest desires for every Christian to go on a cultural experience; to see the world from a different perspective. And here is why:

These are the results from pre and post trip surveys that we have student's fill out before leaving on their 1 week experience in a new culture. See any differences? 

Not everyone is called to go, but we are called to "be [God's] witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8). 

These students walk into the room and many of them act as if all the knowledge during training is just common knowledge, and yes much of it is basic information, but after returning many of them start to realize the impact that the trip had on them. Its not while you're in the presence of a new experience that you see how God is shaping your life, but after the experience has passed and God allows that change to come through. 

There have been many blogs about saving money for your trip and using it to help your community. I honestly believe that there is a place for that. But I also believe that people are sent, not just to help the community that they are going to, but to bring back a new insight into the lives of Christians from around the world. How can we say we love our brothers and sisters without knowing them? 

Having read many of the pre/post trip forms for myself, I saw the students who left change their hearts from "Never serving in short or long-term missions" to being completely open to the Spirit of the Lord. Often, these promptings need to be in a place where God is allowed to open our eyes to what He is trying to do in our lives. 

This isn't to say that everyone called to long-term missions in a foreign country, but we often get so complacent in our own culture that is hard to see God moving until we can take a step back. 

My goals for Jordan are simple. I want Him to move me as He feels lead. I also feel He is leading me to be a voice for His people there. Lack of understanding is our biggest undoing. Closed dialogue has made it nearly impossible for us to know how to handle or view Middle East. So continue to pray for M.E. as we continue on this journey. God is doing some awesome things.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*How To Support M.E.~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

For cash or check please send charitable donations to Global Treasury Services. Expenses should be made payable to General Treasurer Church of the Nazarene at: 

Church of the Nazarene

 P.O. Box 843116

 Kansas City, MO 64184 

and should include the following information: 1. Amman, Jordan 2. Rebekah Musselman. 3. Mission Corps.

Donations can also be given online at Http://web.nazarene.org/goto/rmusselman and look for the MAKE A DONATION button under the picture.

...

Pray for M.E.

1 Year ago (October 2013), I was sitting in the library and half crying while looking at pictures from Israel while Bradley helped me with my exegesis.

About 8 months ago, I found out my prayers of returning to the Middle East might actually happen.

2 Months ago, I took the steps to do training with Mission Corps down at Kansas City.

This last week, I finally received official word that I'll be heading back. My heart is overjoyed and I can't believe where God is taking me.

7 Months from now, I'll be on a plane headed to Jordan, a beautiful country, to work at a school to teach English (Not exactly a part of my degree...but thats o.k.)

Praise that God is in the details though I tend to be so big picture. Praise that God put this calling on my heart in the 5th grade a camp. Praise that I was able to feel that call solidified 3.5 years ago in Israel. And Praise that God uses us despite circumstances, skills, faith, and our plans.


There are a lot of questions and a lot of things to do in prep. In my last blog, I mentioned a possible TESOL class online, which I still may do. There will be a lot of long, hard goodbyes, but I know this is the center of God's will.

It's not often that someone has such a clear idea of what God's vision is for their life. Its not often that one is able to just walk and see God move before them. But, with the exception of a few missteps, God has been working, He has been moving, and I can't turn back.

Yes, I'm a nerd who took a nerdy theme and made it allegorical which probably would make Tolkien turn over in his grave; but regardless, I'm so amazed by how great God is. I'm astounded at His work in my life. Looking back, I can see how ever challenge has been in preparation for this summer.


So no, I have very little idea of what 52 weeks starting in August will look like. But I do know that God has a plan. Financially, it will be taken care of. Emotionally, He's placing people there to help me. Spiritually, it will be trying but exciting with the guidance and love of an amazing people.




So pray for M.E. is for two reasons.

1. I need prayer. The people around me, the people I am leaving, the people I will interact with, we all need prayer.

2. Its a reminder to pray for the Middle East. Its not just about me, but an area of the world that needs God and Jesus in a way they have never experienced before. My prayer is to build relationships and seek God's calling further as He leads me.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*How To Support M.E.~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

For cash or check please send charitable donations to Global Treasury Services. Expenses should be made payable to General Treasurer Church of the Nazarene at: 

Church of the Nazarene

 P.O. Box 843116

 Kansas City, MO 64184 

and should include the following information: 1. Amman, Jordan 2. Rebekah Musselman. 3. Mission Corps.

Donations can also be given online at Http://web.nazarene.org/goto/rmusselman and look for the MAKE A DONATION button under the picture.