Bonjour, Buenas Dias, Kaixo, Hello from the Basque Country of France!
My wife Cath and I moved here five years ago, beginning a new adventure in our sixties — and we absolutely love it.
We were asked to share about ‘going to Samaria’ — in line with Acts 1:8, moving from Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and then to the ends of the earth. For the disciples, Samaria was nearby but culturally different, and going there meant overcoming prejudice.
For us, our ‘Samaria’ was moving from the UK to France — geographically close, but culturally and linguistically new. We began with very little knowledge and few connections, but over time we’ve learned the language, embraced the culture, and made deep friendships. Today we feel at home here.
Perhaps God is stirring you about your own Samaria. It may not be far away, but it could be a place you feel unsure about, or even one you would normally avoid. Going there may mean facing personal fears, embracing the unfamiliar, and being willing to change. Yet Samarias need people who will humbly love, serve, and make disciples.
We’ve discovered that stepping into our Samaria hasn’t made us lose who we are — it’s enriched us. And we’ve seen blessings not only here but also back in Wales, as family and friends have shared in the adventure.
A word to grandparents: it’s not too late! We’re grandparents ourselves, and our move has actually given us more meaningful time with our grandkids. They call this ‘our house in France’ and see themselves as part of the journey.
Is God calling you to a Samaria adventure? We’d be glad to encourage you as you take your own steps of obedience.
