Geographically, Accra is a beautiful place. Gently rolling land, palm trees, and a beautiful coast all lend themselves to a vacationer's delight or a developer's dream. The climate is hot but not unbearable. Seasonal rains are predictable and refreshing.
The people of Accra are friendly. Most speak English, so communication is easy. As a former long-time British colony, much of the culture is familiar; but with enough native culture in Accra to be interesting-perhaps exotic.
For the Christian minister, social scientist, or entrepreneur, the needs and opportunities in Accra are limitless. A people ripe for evangelizations, eager for change and in need of economic growth, it seems the perfect place for a rewarding life or long term commitment.
The only problem is-I want to go home.
Its not that I don't appreciate the beauty, that I don't love the people, or that I fail to see the need and opportunity to minister. When I'm here, I praise God for His creative genius and the beauty I have the privilege to enjoy. I develop relationships with the people and count many as my friends. I seize every opportunity to minister-to serve-in any way that will bless the people and advance the Kingdom. But this is not my home.
I think God wants us to develop this same attitude about our heavenly home. To so long to be with Him and my family there that nothing this world offers can deter my focus. He has created this world for my enjoyment, and given me an understanding and appreciation of its culture. He's challenged me to seize opportunities to advance His Kingdom by serving others and introducing them to Him. But this world is not my home. I enjoy its beauty, appreciate its culture, and serve its people. But it need not become my focus or dull my longing. I want to do a good job while I'm here. But when I'm done, I really want to go home.