When nine-year-old Taylor Murray arrived in Japan, she felt like she was on an adventure—an adventure that God had called her family to take. The unique food, the strange language and the foreign culture were exciting and new.
But the novelty of life overseas wore off, and Taylor became overwhelmed with frustration, loneliness and the sorrow of leaving everything she knew—the States, her home, her extended family—for everything she didn’t know. She kept these emotions hidden in her heart until they reached a boiling point. By the time she was 14, the grief came out disguised as anger.
With her parents’ encouragement, Taylor began writing letters to God about her conflicting feelings. Unloading her experience and emotions on God, she was surprised to discover how willing He was to listen and to bring her to a place of healing, and—ultimately—joy.
You might appreciate the book Taylor wrote. Hidden in My Heart is a collection of Taylor’s letters to God plus discussion questions to help missionary kids reflect on and recount their own experiences. It’s a good resource to put into the hands of missionary families and those who care for them.
Pioneers seeks to provide resources, advice and support for families for everything from transitions to parenting and education planning. We view children as an important part of church-planting teams, valuing the safety and spiritual development of your youngest members.