The Bigger Picture...

This blog has proved to be a good tool to update my family and friends on events in my life specifically here in Korea. But now I want to use it to give you a bigger picture of my life beyond Korea. In order for you to understand more about me, let me officially introduce Stephanie Cole. Let me back up a bit. Back in my high school days, Stephanie and I became good friends by our senior year (2001). After graduation, we both went to two different colleges but still remained friends. It has been neat to see how much both of us have grown since high school- but not farther apart. In fact, over the past 5 years God has been placing many similar desires within each of our hearts for traveling and sharing God's love wherever He may lead. God also has given us a common understanding of who He is and how He works. So.. this past summer while I was in Uganda, I made the decision that when I came back to Virginia I would spend more time with Stephanie to see if there could be a relationship (beyond a friendship) in our future together. And that is exactly what we did! After a summer full of late weekends, lots of driving, going to weddings together, family activities, long conversations, and a family vacation... On August 5th, 2006 I asked Stephanie to be my...girlfriend! (Dating with the intent of Marriage to be proper :)
So you might be thinking, "You got into a relationship right before you went to Korea, Jarrod?!" Yes! I feel confident in the decision we made. Both of us feel like we are able to commit to this relationship (even if it's temporarily long distant), and are EXCITED to see what the Lord is doing as He grows us together giving us peace while we are apart. We have been able to keep in touch almost daily which has helped break down the distance, and she even plans to visit here in January.
It is hard to be away from someone you long to be with so much, but I remind myself that our decision has been given to God, so I trust Him for His purpose and the strength for it. We greatly appreciate your prayers!

"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
Matthew 6:21

Stephanie, I miss you!