The One and Only Julie Roop
(Julie's silly attempt to look like a native German in a clothing store)
It has officially been one year (TODAY!) since I have moved to Germany. Over that course of time, I have introduced you to my students at Liel as well as members of my own family. And yet, I have left someone out. You've met my Mom, my Dad, and Jake, and now, you must meet Julie.
Are you familiar with the saying, "behind every good man is a good woman?" It's true, isn't it? A man is able to be a man of integrity, strength, and goodness because of the woman who supports him, loves him, serves him, and cares for him unconditionally. He can't help but be good because of her love that wins him over.
In my case, I would venture to say that "behind every good missionary is a good God and a good family."
If you have ever been encouraged by a missionary's call or even perplexed by their lifestyle, you might ask, "How can missionaries do what they do? How can they make that sacrifice? How can they leave their families?"
Well, friends, I think the answer is two-fold. When the Lord brought BFA to mind, I couldn't help but respond. This is how He moves. This is how He works. He gave me an undeniable love for these missionary kids before I even met them. I just wanted to go. I just wanted to serve those who needed care. And so, I had to be obedient to the call. The Lord gave me the grace I needed to raise support...He gave me the strength I needed to leave my family...He gave me the courage I needed to live in a foreign country. He has surely proven Himself to be a good God. I couldn't be here without Him. And so, it is because of Him that I am who I am. I have no reason to boast in myself. I am a good missionary because of the One who holds me, sustains me, and defends His cause in my life.
But behind every good missionary, there is also a good family. Through their affirmation and encouragement, the Lord has given me the confidence and the assurance I needed to come to BFA. They also make me strong. They believe for me when I doubt or feel defeated. They cover me with their prayers. They give me their blessing. They support me financially. They never question God's call on my life. They send me notes and care packages. They always answer the phone when I call. They always make time for Skype dates. They love me.
Julie loves me. Her generosity and kindness overwhelms me. Behind every good missionary is a good sister. Julie was the first person to support me financially. She was the first person to write a check. Julie was the first person in my immediate family to buy a plane ticket to Germany. Julie was the first person to schedule me in for weekly Skype dates during her Monday lunch break. A baby sister could ask for nothing more than the incredible love that Julie has shown me. I thank God for her. It is her story-telling and jokes that make me laugh to the point of tears. It is her commitment to family and those she serves that makes me proud. It is her generosity that encourages me to give. It is her love that makes me good. And so, this is all you need to know about Julie, my beautiful sister. It is all that truly matters :)
Julie, I hope you can see. I hope you can understand in some small way that you have made me who I am. I am never the same because of the love that you have poured out on me. You have made me good. I couldn't be here without you. I love you, J!
Oh, I am only good because of the God who stands before me and the family who stands behind me. This is precisely why a missionary can do what she does. It is no secret.
I love her!
Blauen, Germany
