“Selamat Datang” that is to say “Safe Arrival” or “Welcome” proclaims the giant banner hanging across the road as you leave the airport in Jakarta.
Its been almost a year since I last saw that sign, almost a year since I stepped off a plane into the heat and the bright sunlight, and almost a year since I last had to navigate though passengers, immigration, porters and taksi drivers to find a familiar face among all the friendly (and not so friendly) unfamiliar ones.
Riding in the back of a Blue Bird taksi while it weaves this way and that as the driver vies for position on the Jalen Tol, I get the impression that Jakarta hasn’t changed much in that year.
Its a paradox that near constant, frantic 24/7 action doesn’t produce much visible evidence for all its frenetic effort.
There has been some change though…there are more sepeda motor darting about (thanks to easier credit plans) and a few more high rise apartments poke their way through the expansive skyline.
For the most part, my first impression on returning here is that life here continues much as it has for years. The call to prayer this morning served to underline that impression, and to remind me that despite the familiarity and the welcome of friends I am not “home”.
It is a good reminder. When we feel like we are at home we relax, we drop our guard, we get comfortable…and that often means we become complacent.
And the last thing anyplace or anyone needs is a complacent follower of Christ…especially these people, in this place.
So while I am thrilled to be back, I am also cautious. I am excited, but also reserved.
Please pray for me as I have much to be reminded of and much to learn as I readjust to life here and help make preparations for the rest of the team to arrive.
And pray for the safe arrival of the team….they begin traveling soon.
