Molly Morton | Serving in Ireland
A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of preaching through the end of Ephesians 3, where Paul speaks about the power of the Holy Spirit that is hard to tangibly grasp. Paul ends the chapter like this:
“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!” Ephesians 3:21
I am continually surprised with how, who, and where I am able to serve here in Ireland. The ways I get to be involved in our church community and the wider Greystones area are immeasurably more than I could ask or imagine. The ways I imagined I would serve and live in Ireland a dozen years ago are vastly and widely different from the ways God has allowed me to serve in Greystones. I am happy that God chose instead of me.
One of the surprising ways I have been able to serve our church community is through being a holiday helper with Peace Haven Trust. Peace Haven is a local Greystones charitable organization that provides residential accommodation and support for adults with intellectual disabilities. Some of you might remember that I was privileged and blessed to accompany Peace Haven as a holiday helper to Florida last summer. Last week, I got the opportunity to take Marion on her holiday “down the country” to Killarney in the Ring of Kerry, just the two of us.
Marion is quite possibly the most extroverted and joyful person I have ever met. She loves children, dogs, music, and shopping. She will stop in the street to say hello to children and dogs alike. She loves dancing to her favorite music and will not allow her arthritic leg to keep her from doing so. I am very introverted and found it challenging how much Marion does not care what other people think of her. However, I am learning from Marion about how important it is to share yourself openly and honestly and without fear. Marion’s joy disarms everyone around her. I have a lot to learn from my dear friend Marion.
Marion is 75 years old so she is the same age my mom would be. My mom’s birthday was last week. She was on my mind quite a bit in Killarney. Marion and I talked about our moms while we were away. We acknowledged that it is sad that they aren’t physically here with us but it’s helpful knowing they are with the Father instead. Being able to care for and support Marion during the week of my mom’s birthday was immeasurably more than I could ask or imagine. My time with Marion was a balm over what is usually a very sad week.
I am so grateful for the ways each one of you prays and financially supports my ministry in Ireland. It is immeasurably more than I could ever ask for or imagine.
Blessings,
Molly
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