Visa Trouble

I'm in a pickle.

Shall I enlighten you on the situation? Okay. I will.

When I left for France in September the policy was that as long as I left France briefly after a 90 day stay, I would be able to re-enter the country again. So, I didn't get a French visa. However, I found out a few days ago that in mid-October the policy was changed, so that those without visas who stay in France (and other countries within the Schengen region) for up to 90 days must stay out of it for 90 days before re-entering.

I was scheduled to fly back to France today so that I could pack and depart for Senegal with my team on January 2. But since I most likely would have been denied access into France without a visa, I decided I would stay put in England for the time being.

So, Peter (who also does not have a French visa) and I are still in England, staying with Abi's ever so kind family. We're at a bit of a standstill, waiting for the consulates in the States to open on Monday so that we can figure out what on earth we should do! We're looking into the possibility of getting transit visas, although we have no idea if it's possible to obtain those without being in our home states. We are also looking into the possibilty of finding a flight straight from England to Africa. We are also looking into the possibility of joining up with an outreach team in England instead of going to Senegal, should the first two possiblities fall through.

The other issue is that my flight back home to the states in March is out of Marseille, France. And if getting back into France is simply not going to be possible, I will have to pay for another flight home.

So how's that for an update? I've been so aware of all the amazingly good things God has allowed me to do and experience during my travels so far, and I keep thinking, "shall I take God's blessings and not the trials as well?" At this particular moment I am actually really excited for whatever God has. I'm comforted as I remember that he knows the plans he has for me, and that he works all things for the good of those who love him (Jeremiah 29:11, Romans 8:28).

But oh, we have so very much to figure out. So many questions, so many unknowns, so many what ifs. Please pray that God would give Peter, his parents, my parents, and me wisdom as we contact the consulates and try to sort this out. Please pray that I would trust God as he opens and/or closes doors. Thank you! I am grateful to know so many folks are supporting me on this journey.

I'll post again once I have updates!