The Oxford Leap

Oxford.

A notorious UK city known for it's intellectual intrigue and historical weight.

And one I didn't fully imagine I would be living in until recently...


Of the first books I devoured as a young child, Tolkien and CS Lewis's works in the form of The Hobbit and Narnia were among the top of the pile. I found myself lost within the woven narratives, the pictoral essence of imagination in a simplistic dream life. With this personal history of warm romanticism, as far as the fantasy lands created by such authors go, I suppose that Oxford by association was a similarly romantic city- one which inspired creative motivation.


In some ways Oxford has the potential to be a place of great sorrow for myself as, though I went onto Higher Education, for varying reasons I didn't finish my degree. My academic studies in school were somewhat sacrificed for musical pursuits, so in terms of a consideration for career options, I was in a state of despair and hurt at what was apparently snatched from me and the limitations I thought were a given for my life now. For the copious persons in this city of an intellectual nature, many with letters indicating education after their names, I could well find pain and intimidation here if I looked for it and unhealthily compared myself. However, I love studying & research, reading, and intellectual wonderings of etymological thoughts, so Oxford has become a place where I have the beautiful option of thankfulness, being amongst peers whose linguistic conversation satisfy something deep in me as both a poet and malnourished student.

Years later in post-student life, through some substantial season fields involving relational depth, lessons in love and varying forms of heart healing, I found myself involved with a first love ministry and casually went along to one of these worship events in Oxford (Burn 24/7 Oxford).

When walking into the Old Fire Station building, I didn't really have much vision into where i'd be in the future, but amidst an intense season (that very night a close relative nearly died) I saw a gathered community of Jesus lovers who did family really well and oozed the love of God.


I went to the next 'burn', and then the next, and found myself caught up into this beautiful community of expectant believers, some particular friendships that blew my mind in powerful ways and continue to do so. [I love you very dearly. You know who you are. :) ] I started looking for jobs in Oxford and found one, then ended up on this journey of house hunting, which, if you haven't experienced it yet, involves so much logistical motivation and perseverance!

Long story short, and I find myself in this charming, simplistic flat, a short walk from the city, close to stunning fields, adjacent to picturesque rivers and down the road from friends. I've had the honour of worshipping for hours on multiple pianos in nationally significant historic locations, being blessed by amateur chefs cooking yumminess, getting to pray for significant christians, spending time with peers again and losing weight through mere routine continuity. I am not taking this for granted one bit and continue to be truly amazed at what God is doing in my life.

Stepping out is scary. But my goodness there's nothing quite like that moment when the leap is taken and Jesus is so apparent in His strength and consistency, Such a rich blessing.

Take courage. Take a leap today.