Panama 2

I'm so proud of our team. They worked very hard today, putting up the last truss on the church our first team began. We put on some more of the roof and began building the walls with blocks. Our team mixed all the concrete by hand. It was a great day of work. Trips like this are like a marathon, you have to pace yourself to make sure you finish strong!

Panama 1

We arrived last night, the 16 of us ate together and had a devotional as a team. This morning we went to the new church our first team began. I was given the honor of preaching the first message under the new roof and it was Pentecost Sunday. We had 3 people come to Christ this morning and our team did amazing praying for the people. Also, we heard the Pastor share an amazing story of how he was discouraged and about to give up. He felt God tell him to stand strong, so he gave God two months. That's when God moved huge. Within that time, we were here and built this building. The real miracle is that for us, this was plan C. Only because 2 other opportunities fell through we're we going to Panama. Then the missionary to Panama that we were working with, was setting us up in two other places that fell through as well, and so this was again a plan C. But in Gods equation....it was an answer to both our prayers. It is an amazing feeling knowing that you are in the Will of God.

memories

Today, I'm going to my boys schools to take them out early just to spend time together. I have a special couple hours planned that I know they will love. They have no clue I'm coming and I'm looking to create a memory they will have forever. I was blessed to have a dad who did this for me....and I still cherish the memories.

take it all in

I have a philosophy in life, that I want to get to the end of my life having used every bit of energy, gifting, finances, and love to enjoy this life to the fullest. I want to live as close to "red lining" as possible to take it all in and enjoy everything that God has given me. Yesterday, I was up early, preached 3 services, grabbed a quick lunch, ran a 5k race near the church, crossed the line and jogged to the church, showered, straight into a missions meeting and then off to a Pentecost Rally, prayed at the altar for people and then headed home. I was exhausted, but I felt I took in everything that I possibly could. I guess my point is, let's make the most of everyday and every opportunity. Wherever you are...be there...all there and in doing so, enjoy the richness of life.

friction

Friction makes rough things smooth. Friction removes the rough edges on something. The same goes for our lives. Friction may be painful, but it has a way of making us more like Jesus.

weight

In life and especially in ministry, there is always weight to carry. Some of it is our own baggage, but much of it is the baggage of those close to us. It is so hard not carry it when your heart breaks for them and their situation of what they are going through. We all shoulder this weight differently, but the real key is to lay it at the feet of Jesus. He already carried and died for every burden and all sin. What weight are you carrying?

Mom

I want to thank my mom for all that she has done for me. Over the years she has sacrificed, prayed and invested in me. I know that much of who I am, I owe to her. My entire life has been spent knowing that she believes in me and that she is always praying for me. My mom gave up some of the best years of her life to pour into me and because of that investment, I am able to go farther and reach higher. So now my moms legacy will live on in my life, and that of my children as well. I love you mom!