More big steps towards Thailand this week as I handed in my resignation at work. This was a significant step as it meant surrendering next year completely to God, knowing on my return I have no job. It's also extremely emotional to say goodbye to the colleagues and families I have worked so closely with over the past two years. By returning in February I'm also accepting that I won't be teaching, but instead will be attending Theological College - a huge diversion from where I thought I would be. But I'm acting in obedience to God's call - as crazy as it seems sometimes.

Eccelesiastes has been teaching me a lot lately. I listen to it on CD in the car driving to and from work. Being fed on the Word is such a nourishing experience. Having handed in my resignation and then facing some big challenges at work, I have been leaning on the words of Ecclesiastes 10:4 "If the spirit of the ruler rises against you, do not leave your post; for conciliation pacifies offence."

It was a strong reminder to me that whatever task I set myself to, I need to be prepared for attack but armed to respond with God's grace.

Reality bites...

It's been an emotional day as I have completed some vital steps on the journey to Thailand. This morning consisted of my first visit to the the travel doctor, which proved quite an overwhelming experience. I know I'm not the most knowledgeable person, but i didn't realise just quite how many diseases and risks I would need to be aware of. Today was Rabies shot #1, plus Influenza - an injection I've never had before as I don't particularly like getting injections that aren't deemed completely necessary. But suddenly going from first world medical facilities to less-than, the neccessity has become apparent. As a Christian I find it a really challenging line between trusting God for my safety and just been logical about the risks I'll be surrounded by.

I also got the fun job of carrying waaay too many $100 notes from the bank to the travel agent to book my flights. That's when I started to feel a little overwhelmed - I was actually committing to this journey financially and there's no going back. Again, insurance was a challenge of trust vs logic (I don't think I even like phrasing it as a versus statement) but I decided that having the finances to get me home if something were to happen to my family was the most important thing.

It was so nice to have contact with multiple people who inquired about my journey and were so thrilled to hear that i was going for purposes other than lazing on a pristine beach all day (nt that there's anything wrong with that). It's like an evangelical opportunity that carries from prior, right through to long after I come home - what a privilege!