With less than a month to go before our departure, our planning, packing, and praying are in overdrive. It seems to always happen this way. Between 6 to 3 months out, we make a list of all the things we may have forgotten to bring for the last trip, and what we must remember this time around. It seems silly, but when you're in a third-world country and the nearest Walmart is thousands of miles away, it becomes a bigger deal. However, I somehow think I have more time than I do, so I end up putting the item gathering on hold until...well, now!
Nearly every time we return, we say we aren't going to bring as much with us next time, but every year our luggage is bursting at the seams and at max capacity. Mind you, most of what we're packing isn't for us. We pack Bibles, curriculum, electronics, clothing for all ages, medication, medical supplies, and more, all for the sake of ministry. While it's such a joy to deliver, it's a real pain to carry through the airport.
Jim and I just returned from visiting our granddaughters in Florida. This was our "See you later" trip before going to Uganda. Claire (7) and Ellie (5) will turn 8 and 6, respectively, the day we return home. Our mission years can be tough on this Nonni's heart, but the Lord fills it with a different type of joy, even though I don't get to see my girls.
As mentioned in the last blog, for the first time in twelve years, Eli is not joining us, due to school and other obligations. I confess, my heart is starting to feel the absence of his laughter and the joy of his presence. Eli has served as an evangelist, a teacher, and a preacher in the field each year of our mission. Moreover, his work with the children in Uganda is one of his greatest joys, and theirs as well. I'm so going to miss working beside him this year. But God is using him in other ways and probably preparing me for future farewells. Sigh.
Pastor Julius is doing well and is in the throes of preparing for our arrival. Like us, he is excited for our reunion and the adventures that lie ahead. He is working through his Master's Degree, leading the flock at Rock Baptist Church, maintaining a biblical training center, providing for his family, and getting ready for a bunch of "Muzungus" to fill his compound. Julius is a man of integrity within a sea of corruption. Please pray for Julius to remain steadfast in the face of temptation and everyday challenges.
As always, I thank you for taking the time to read our blog. I know we aren't there yet, but all the things leading up to the mission require just as much prayer as the mission itself. Your prayers, encouragement, and love are the greatest support of all. I welcome your questions and comments, either on this site or via email, Facebook, or text. Love to you all, until the next post.
"Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established."
~ Proverbs 16:3
