When It's Time To Go

This little book was our required reading for Cross Cultural Ministries.  Even though we were supposed to read the book over the six-week course, I read the entire book by our second class.  I read it so quickly for two reasons: 1) The reading assignments were out of order (e.g. read chapters 1 and 5 this week and 4, 6, 9 next week).  I'm not a big fan of that. And 2) The book was an easy read and chock full of great information! 

When It's Time to Go: Preparing for the Mission Field as a Wife and Mother by Brandi Biesiadecki offers advice and encouragement to those women who are planning to head to the mission field with their family.  Brandi has served over seas and shared what she learned from her experience as a missionary; she made no qualms about the difficulties we could expect to face, but also offered potential solutions and ways to circumvent some issues (such as depression and intense culture shock).  Brandi explicitly discusses our roles as wives and mothers; it was humbling to read her words.  My call to serve my family is one which I should take seriously (and not just once we've moved wherever the Lord takes us).  Even though I'm not yet a mother, I can only imagine how much of a challenge it will be- and even more of one living overseas.  This book really made me think about some difficult issues, but I am so thankful it did.  I will definitely be revisiting this book in the future!

Oh, and bonus bit: I was reading the reviews on the inside jacket, and I saw two names and did a double take.  Apparently, my old youth minister and his wife (who have been missionaries in Europe and Central Asia) knew the author quite well.  The both had written a review of the book.  Crazy to see names you haven't seen since you were 12 years old!