Travelling Light is a daily Bible meditation containing a mixture of thoughts, readings and stories from doctors, nurses and students who have spent time abroad. It is split into weekly chunks under headings including 'Hope', 'Reliance on God', 'Dealing with death, suffering and inadequacy' and 'Rising above the day to day'.

This book is a real companion for those spending time abroad and confronted with abject poverty, new cultures, different types of healthcare, and perhaps a face of Christ that is less than familiar. The Bible readings challenge yet comfort, and encourage deeper trust in God. There is a great sense of solidarity in the pages, not only from people in the Bible who have gone before but also from the contributors.

My advice is this: buy the book but resist the temptation to read it before you go on your elective or mission trip. You will then discover a fresh perspective from your heavenly family at a time when you may well feel in need of people who understand the joys and the difficulties of working for Christ abroad.