After the Boxes Are Unpacked
(Renewing the Heart)
Don’t you love it when you’ve been thinking about someone, and then they come walking into your life? I call those special moments “God pokes.”
Recently, at our new church’s Starting Point Luncheon for newcomers, author and speaker Susan Miller slid up to our table. It turns out she was assigned to be our hostess. Bless her, she was determined to make it the ‘best table’ at the event. (And it was!)
Susan Miller happens to be the author of After the Boxes are Unpacked: Moving on After Moving In published by Tyndale House. During our conversation over sandwiches, mustard potato salad, and watermelon, Susan mentioned that more than 40 million Americans move each year. That's amazing!
It's not surprising that studies show it can be one of the heaviest strains on a marriage. Although (so far) I've had an easy time adjusting, for many women, relocating can be a traumatic event.
Susan agreed to let me post her answers to a few of my questions about her book and nationwide ministry called, Just Moved.org. Listen as she shares her wisdom in a sweet southern accent.
1. Where are you from, and what brought you to the Phoenix (AZ) area?
Atlanta, Georgia. A corporate move in the hotel industry. Our 14th move. We thought moving here was just another corporate move, God’s plan was to begin a ministry to bring hope to uprooted women all over the world.
2. What’s the biggest obstacle women face when they relocate to a new location?
Letting go of the past, starting all over again, and embracing a new unfamiliar life. Also: loneliness
3. It’s easy to get stuck in a comfortable friendship rut. How do you motivate ‘old-timers’ in the church to reach out to include new friends in their circle?
Motivate them by asking the question: Remember when you were new to a church or community? Remember how you felt? Then encourage old-timers to be inclusive, not exclusive! For example: Invite someone new out to lunch after church, or over for dinner. Ask how you can help them or what you can do to make their transition easier.
4. Any parting words of encouragement?
“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” (Deuteronomy 31:8)
Thank you for sharing, Susan. And what a wonderful verse!
If you're struggling with a move, or know someone who is, Susan Miller and her ministry Just Moved.org is a wonderful “go to” resource. Check it out!
Photos: Amazon.com & Just Moved.org.
Linked at Works-for-Me-Wednesday and Women Living Well Wednesdays.
Can you think of a friend who needs this book?
3 Comments:
Sounds like a great book and a wonderful woman!....when I've moved it's never been too far...just across the state but I can imagine how hard it is to get friendships going in a new church as I've "been there done that" thankfully our church, although very large, has a great connection ministry and small group ministry. another way to make new friends in a new church is to jump in and serve
I could have used this book a year ago! But it does seem like some one of our acquaintances is moving at any given time, and we have new people in church regularly. Sounds like a great resource!
Oh my...sure hit home here. I think I still haven't adjusted to our move to this area 13 years ago...it also seems like everyone is so busy these days. I haven't had anyone approach me at our new house...but I have been approaching them, like it or not...so totally get the loneliness.
Wow, you get paired up with her and that is the book she wrote...and you just move...I call it Divine Appointment!
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