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Long-distance Relationships, Missions and Compassion
by Susie Shellenberger

Dear Susie:
I’m in a long-distance relationship. My boyfriend and I met at a Christian camp last summer. We get along great and love each other very much, but I can’t help but wonder if he’s going to forget about me. I trust him and can talk to him about everything. I worry a lot about him and our relationship. Do you think I should tell him how I really feel?

Desperate!
From our e-mail bag

Dear Desperate!
First of all, I’m glad you have your eye on a guy who shares your love and devotion to Christ. If the two of you were young adults, I’d encourage you to work at the relationship. During your teen years, however, long- distance relationships are usually impossible.

Your letter is a bit contradictory. You “love and trust him” but worry that he’s going to forget you? First John 4:17-18 talks about perfect love. Perfect love casts out fear.

I encourage you to simply concentrate on being his friend right now. God says He will give us wisdom if we will ask. Ask God to give you wisdom in this relationship. Your friendship may grow into something more, and then it may not. Continue seeking God in making decisions for all your relationships.

We’ve never printed a letter from a mom before, but we got excited about this one and wanted to share it with you.

Dear Susie:
My daughter Liz participated in last summer’s Brio missions trip to Panama. It was her first missions trip, her first airplane ride, her first time giving her testimony in front of more than 30 people, and she’s growing in the Lord by leaps and bounds.

The missions trip and the time she had each night with FUAGNEM were life-changing for her. I just want to say thanks and let you know that God is working through the Brio staff and your steadfast devotion to do what the Lord says for you to do.

We’re from a very small community and our church only has about 40 active members, but Liz was able to raise all the money to go on this missions trip. I think it was because we really prayed and got the word out through letters to the newspapers and to the surrounding communities. She learned that we have such an amazing, loving God who really does care about every little detail of our lives.

Liz has been asked to speak at two different churches about her experiences, and she’s learned a lot about herself. Thanks again for giving her this incredible opportunity. From a mother who wants to do all she can to serve the Lord,

Tammy Carroll, mother of Elizabeth

If you’re interested in participating in our 2006 missions trip to Lima, Peru, get the scoop right here.

This article appeared in Brio magazine in December 2005. Copyright © 2005 Focus on the Family. All rights reserved. International copyright secured.

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