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Fazing out of Amsterdam with deep thankfulness.

As I got on the plane from Fortaleza I felt such a sense of closure. It was like I had done exactly what I had come to do, and I was leaving at the exactly right time. My heart was full of peace, and even as I spent my layover in Lisbon (pretty much like a zombie; jetlagged, drinking tea, coffee, eating pastel de nata, and walking around to stay awake) the peace remained (and is still there).

Boarding the plane to Amsterdam I had my action plan ready- sleep for the next 2-3 hours. However, as they scanned my boarding pass it beeped and they gave me a new one with the comment “you’ve been upgraded.” Such an awesome surprise, and of course I wasn’t going to sleep through nice food and good service. My cup of tea was even served in a ceramic cup with the tea bag on the side. I could get used to business class.

Arriving in Amsterdam I was greeted by a good friend and rain. The city continues stunningly beautiful and it’s almost like this is the perfect time to wrap up. It’s been a few days of being back and sitting here my heart is overflowing with thankfulness.

Thankfulness for the privilege and blessing Brazil was, but also for the privilege and blessing of having been allowed to live in Amsterdam and invest in this city for the past 2 and a bit years. Thankful for the people I’ve built relationships with.

Last night I went prayer walking with one of the Lighthouse staff in one of the Red Light Districts that is very much on my heart. It was so good to yet again connect with God’s heart for the women and men and realize how people come and go, yet He never stops fighting for them. We were headed to visit one of the women I have known for most of my time here, and on the way we passed another girl and decided to pop into her window to pray. And it was such a precious time from God of praying for her and encouraging her, and at the end see her decide she wants to follow Jesus. What a privilege to get to pray with her. A last time in that district (for now) for me, but the beginning of a journey for her.

The next days promise connecting with those I am closest to here in this city; people from YWAM, church, windows, outreach… all whom I now call friends. And I am so thankful to have this time to say not “good bye” but “see you later.” Thankful to have time to go to my favourite cafés and savour the things I most love about this place.

And so I look to the days ahead with anticipation and peace dwelling in my heart. So very thankful.

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