Exciting Developments...

As part of my experience reading Radical (discussed in this previous post), I really had a heart change on several aspects of our lives.  James and I decided it was time to let go of excuses we've been using the past couple of years to feel content riding the sidelines in the game of Life (James is in med school so we don't have time to do that, we are only here for a short while so why get involved, we have no money to do missions, we have a baby to consider now etc. etc.)  We let go and just asked God to use us and provide the resources (time, money, energy etc.) as he deems fit.

For my part, I also decided that I would 'let go' and let James lead.  I have a nasty habit of wanting to be in control and on top of things, all the while frustrated that James doesn't do more...all the while, James is frustrated that I have taken over, yet again, and not allowed him the opportunity to lead.  I felt convicted of this and made a vow to God to pray for my husband (something I don't do often enough); for his leadership of this family, for him to plot out an intentional direction for our lives and service for God's kingdom, and for him to seek God wholeheartedly.  And, I vowed not to nag regarding the status of the previously mentioned items...

About a week and a half after making the vow, I received a text message from James.  It said, "Maybe going on a medical mission trip/church planting trip to Kenya in January".  My response: "wha???"  I was so thrilled and couldn't wait to hear more!  In the weeks that have passed, I've seen my often tired and weary husband reading Radical by lamplight at night and reading the Word in our study's reading chair by day.  We are both holding each other accountable to spend time in prayer and study of the Bible to stay on track.  We are FAR from perfect, but it's felt good to draw closer to the Lord.

So, back to the mission trip ahead!   James heard about it during his orientation sessions in late June.  A neurologist at Princeton Baptist Hospital is on the board of a small, non denominational church planting organization and takes a group of doctors and residents each year to Kenya  for 10 days to provide medical assistance, as well as, plant churches.  James was immediately interested (hence the text) and felt this may be an answer to our prayers, but we waited a couple weeks to think it over and pray.  Initially, James thought we could both go and leave Georgia with her grandparents, but the thought of leaving my then 11 mo old baby for 10 days was TOO much.  I don't feel comfortable doing that at this point, so just he will go.

Oh, also did I mention the trip is FREE???  Yes, it is for the doctors going!  What a blessing!  So, James will be heading out in January of 2012.  We ask that you pray, as I will, for safe travels, a hedge of protection while in a volatile and potentially infectious area of the world, and for God to use their hands to help and heal.

As James goes thousands of miles away, I am looking for ways to volunteer in our community.  We are still praying for direction and more opportunities.  I am so thankful Jesus came to give us life-- abundant life!


Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms.  1 Peter 4:10 

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly. John 10:10

"Grant me to know that I truly live only when I live to thee,
   that all else is trifling.
Thy presence alone can make me holy, devout, strong and happy.
Abide in me, gracious God."
 - The Valley of Vision (excerpt from "Resting on God")