Ready, Set, GO

It's "go time".  For the last four years, I've longed for the opportunity to return to the schools in Africa and to continue working with Zambian educators and students.  I've also dreamed of taking one or all of my girls with me, but never believed it would be possible.  Tomorrow morning, Katie and I travel to Lusaka, Zambia by way of Dubai where we will begin using our unique gifts in separate locations while both working with orphans.   Now that it's time to go,  so much anticipation has turned to into last minute stress and some heart ache about leaving Kyle, Caroline and Kelly.  If you are inclined to pray for us, now is the time.  Please pray for the obvious, health and safety, and also for fruitful ministry as we seek to serve precious children created in the image of God.

In preparation for this trip, we've been getting ready for months with various fundraising efforts: t-shirt sales and also gathering needed supplies.  Family and friends from all seasons of life have made it possible for us to go.  There really are no adequate words of gratitude for the generous and loving support we've received in all areas!  We are ready and able thanks to so many of you.

Stress has been high in the recent weeks as we get everything set and organized for travel, including various shots and prescriptions.  It is quite something for a Type A mother, with a checklist for each day to prepare for a mission trip with a laid back-go with the flow-no worries-daughter.   Katie will be glad to get on a completely different shuttle when we arrive in Lusaka, Zambia on Saturday (7:30 in the morning Texas time).  Of course, I will shower her with many last minute reminders as we go our separate ways.  Again, if you are inclined to pray for us, now is the time!

With Katie's departure for college upon our return, ready, set, go seems to be the theme of the summer.   There are six packed suitcases in the living room for Africa and there are dozens of stacks and piles for a college dorm in Katie's room.  The checklists are detailed and long for both events.  She will be stepping out on her own overseas as well as on a college campus.  As we prepare for separate mission opportunities, we are also making sure she is ready for an independent life with all the needed supplies.   I'm thankful it is not "go time"  in that regard, yet.  Whether it's short term missions or significant life/family changes, I'm reminded about the theme of this blog: the Lord is my shepherd.  Those five words from scripture comfort my soul- day and night.  Whether taking a walk or having a sleepless night, I rehearse these words over and over in my mind in the midst of fear and/or anxiety.   God's goodness and grace is overwhelming to us and we give Him thanks for these opportunities.  With Christ as our good shepherd,  we can trust him to care for our needs as we follow him in the days, months and years ahead.  May the Lord be glorified through our efforts in the next few weeks and may His love be showered upon our brothers and sisters across the globe.