We have had to do with many missionaries this year and every time we meet another couple i come to realize the feeling i have towards them is pity. Do you feel like you are fulfilling your purpose? Are you sorry you are not living the American dream? Are you lonely? Do you feel like you have done meaningful things? Are you content? Is this home for you? Would you go back? Do you have true friends?
These are the questions I could finally sum up and I see now that it showed how backward my perception is. 1John 1 the deciples were being persecuted and they said their joy would be full if they could write down all the Lord has told them to.
Personally, my joy would be full if I had killer abs and a whimsy fiancé. Terribly shallow, I know.
"It would seem that Our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and ambition when infinite joy is offered to us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased"
C.S. Lewis
So one of these lovely missionaries answered me with this simple answer that belittled all the questions. She said it is tough and she has to submit her will everyday, but the moment God comes through and proves Himself faithful, it is more than enough. It is the eternal perspective that brings pure joy. Abs and men will fade, but God will always have a new side to reveal to you.