Time definitely flies when you’re having fun! (and eating copious amounts of Swiss chocolate…) I had such an amazing time visiting Mara, Sibylle, Alexandra and the doebeli family. I truly felt spoiled rotten as they gave and gave and gave so I would feel comfortable and at home while I was there. It worked – however I must admit, it did make it hard to leave.
As a warning to those who are not familiar with the German way of doing things, going to a thermal baths (hot springs) is an experience. After hours of driving, Sibylle and I arrive at the thermal baths overlooking the Bodensee (aka Lake Constance). The delightful thought of overlooking the beautiful lake was unexpectedly interrupted by numerous people, both male and female, wearing no clothing. And I mean no clothing! We had to walk through the sauna area to get to the pool and so I was duly educated that the Germans (and neighbouring countries too, I suspect) insist on removing all items of clothing for the sauna – an experience I will not be sharing any time soon ;-)
Apart from my little culture shock experience, my two week holiday felt like a windblown journey from one place to another. Four days in beautiful Austria was a delight. Afterwards, through some bizarre connections, I met up with some Swiss bethel students for a night of great food and encouragement overlooking the lake of Zurich. I went from there to Taegertschi, a tiny village near Berne, to meet Charles Werner whom I’d never actually met before, only emailed. It was wonderful to hear this Swiss/American family’s heart for Switzerland and their region. One my way back to Aarau I stopped in Bern, the capital city and finally walked through the old town of this city I’d heard so much about. The rest of my time was spent with Mara, Alexandra and the Doebeli’s. We laughed ourselves silly. I have a sneaking suspicion the Holy Spirit had a part to play in that ;-) Its times like these that I wish I could put the experiences in a bottle to re-experience the delight at will.
I’m now back in the UK and have been for a week or so. The great news that my good friends Sean and Kirby Greathead have arrived in the UK this week and will be staying for a while is a gift and a joy to me. As my tender shoots start to take root in a new country, having good friends close by is a source of strength and encouragement. Thank you Jesus!
In a mere month’s time the school of supernatural ministry will officially launch. The nitty-gritty detail planning has begun. We’re now on the runway getting ready for take-off. Being part of a pioneering expedition is both challenging and exciting with many questions still to be answered as the school starts to take shape.
Thank you to my wonderful friends in Switzerland and Austria who gave me so much. Your friendship is like gold to me.
