[Committed2Him]

cat, "whooohula!"

fig, thanks! I'll pass your thoughts along to the pilot.

Karen, We leave Friday and return on the 18th! Oh and Karen, about that envy? Remember my thread title:

Romans 8:28

And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.

Well, I likely would not be taking these missions trips if I was still married. The major financial sacrifices I have chosen to undertake only affect me and my lifestyle so I choose to make them. I meet my commitments to child support and school tuitions and beyond because I love to bless my children. So I understand the excitement others have for me but I also share that these opportunities have come because of an obedience to what God has shown me to do. Much of the time I blow it but some of the time I get it right and I owe anything that turns out good to God, He gets the glory. I really, really mean it.

Just now thinking about the excitement we all have about going, I was thinking that I will not have the post vacation let down that often accompanies a trip to an exotic destination. For one thing, heaven will be SO much better and this trip will only wet my appetite to be a better servant of God and my fellow man.

Secondly, the memories we have will be of serving and the blessings we receive will last. Back when I was a party animal, the "good times" I had (or at least those I could remember ) were moments in time. Now, these memories will be of helping, loving, caring for those who are less fortunate and offering them something eternal. Long after my tan has faded, I the love of God we share with others will still be fond memories for both those who receive it and those who give it.