The orders arrive.  Soon it is goodbye to the States and hello to your new overseas home.  Considering all the many things to do upon your arrival, where do you begin?  Please allow me to share some brief thoughts and a challenge with you.

As a Christian, one of the first items to take care of is finding a good church for you and your family.  With today's technology this search can be well underway before you arrive and soon completed after a few visits. 

Being an active part of an overseas military church can be one of the most memorable experiences in your Christian life.  The singles and young families, that constant rotation of folks that bring continual changes and opportunities to grow through serving, and sense of being part of something missionary and dynamic, makes for a wonderful sense of purpose.  Having a church home will also be big blessing to your family when that deployment comes. 

Please consider these recommeded actions below that will help you to take full advantage of this opportunity that Christ has brought your way:

1) Have already purposed in your heart that this is a priority and have asked the Lord to be leading you to your new church.

2) Begin visiting possible churches the very first Sunday in your new location and make your decision where to attend quickly.  If living off base, consider the impact of where you will live - will it make your participating at the church easier or more difficult?

3) Join and then be faithful to all the services and in your giving (for where your treasure is there will your heart be also).  Opportunities to serve will soon make themselves known and in the meantime, your new pastor will have the opportunity to get to know you and your family.

4) Once a place of service is identified, commit to it as this will help the new church become "your" church.

5) Pray regularly for your new church family.

This done, now enjoy the unique and blessed time of serving and growing in the Lord together with other Christians, some of which will become friends for a lifetime!