Love Surrounds Me

Last night, my church gave me a reception so that they could say good by and pray for me. I was overwhelmed by the love I felt and encouragement I received. There were cookies, cards, hugs, tears, and prayers. Thank you so much to everyone who came. I will miss my Concord family but I am so grateful that they will be supporting me through prayers.

A lot of people have be asking me if I’m scared. I’m not though. Not at
all. I have this peace, and the only way I can explain it is that it
comes from God. There are so many unknowns still out there in the way
that this trip will flesh out, but I know that this is I am to do right
now. Mother Teresa said, “We must leave every project for the future in
the hands of an Omnipotent God, because yesterday has gone by, tomorrow
is not yet here, and today we have only to know, love, and serve
Jesus.” I rejoice in this chance to know, love, and serve Jesus in
South Africa.

I leave in two days for training camp. My room looks like it exploded because everything I own is in random piles that at one time were very organized. My dad said that tonight he will help me put everything in the suitcases. I don’t know if I’m thankful for the help or terrified at the task. I’m a horrible packer and have always thought that packing was punishment for traveling. However, with an amazing opportunity to go to South Africa, I guess I shouldn’t complain about something so minor.

Other than that, I guess the next couple days will be cramming in a lot of stuff before I leave. My dad’s birthday is tomorrow and I’m excited about that. I love my family so much. I will also be buying last minute things and eating my favorite foods (mainly smoothies and ice cream).

To those reading this from my church or family, thank you for everything and I love you all very much.
To those fyms reading this, I’m looking forward to meeting you and want you to know that my church is praying for our team.