We started out the mission trip with a little glitch- as expected because that always happens! Our van wasn't at the rental place as they had promised. So, with record timing on loading the other van, we then sat waiting for 2 1/2 hours! It was a little frustrating! But, in the grand scheme of things, life could have been worse. Our drive was less than 6 hours and we knew where we were going. We had no official plans or activities that we had to get to by a certain time. So, all was well. I was reminded of a story I recently read where something bad had happened, but if it hadn't happened, something worse would have happened. Maybe our delay saved us from an accident or road delays or something. Or maybe we were just supposed to wait. I don't know. But, we survived and moved on!
We arrived in Southern Illinois mid- afternoon and were greeted by our friends who are joining us on the trip. They had invited some of their youth group to join us for the evening. Soon, they showed up and it seemed like the groups clicked immediately! They hung out and played, talked, laughed, and had a great time.
One of the volunteers from their group had volunteered to lead us in a time of worship. So, we went to their youth area and sang and worshiped together. It was beautiful! Everyone was singing and worshiping- no care about how they looked or seemed to those around them! After we sang for awhile, my friend spoke. I had asked her to share a message with the youth. I am always amazed when she shares with the group and how she obviously listens to God because what she shares it what I know the group needs to hear! It was such a blessing to start our trip with this time together!
Whenever I am with my friend, I am reminded of the blessing she is in my life- the encourager, the one who helped lead me along my spiritual journey, and the one who still can hold me accountable better than anyone else because she knows my heart so well. Although I wish we had more time together, I was grateful for the time we had and that I could start our mission week by being uplifted and spiritually filled.
After worship, the groups just hung out together and played. It was great to see them connecting so well!
WHile on our way, I received a voicemail from the construction manager. He shared with me that our projects will be through a different group who works with youth and will be working along side us throughout the week. We will have a chance to spend time with the families we work for and will also be doing ice breakers and things. So, it's obvious they are used to doing things with youth groups. So, I'm pretty excited about where God is leading us!
So, where was God today? He kept us safe, he helped us along the way, and He enjoyed our time of worship.
Blessings,
Jennifer
We arrived in Southern Illinois mid- afternoon and were greeted by our friends who are joining us on the trip. They had invited some of their youth group to join us for the evening. Soon, they showed up and it seemed like the groups clicked immediately! They hung out and played, talked, laughed, and had a great time.
One of the volunteers from their group had volunteered to lead us in a time of worship. So, we went to their youth area and sang and worshiped together. It was beautiful! Everyone was singing and worshiping- no care about how they looked or seemed to those around them! After we sang for awhile, my friend spoke. I had asked her to share a message with the youth. I am always amazed when she shares with the group and how she obviously listens to God because what she shares it what I know the group needs to hear! It was such a blessing to start our trip with this time together!
Whenever I am with my friend, I am reminded of the blessing she is in my life- the encourager, the one who helped lead me along my spiritual journey, and the one who still can hold me accountable better than anyone else because she knows my heart so well. Although I wish we had more time together, I was grateful for the time we had and that I could start our mission week by being uplifted and spiritually filled.
After worship, the groups just hung out together and played. It was great to see them connecting so well!
WHile on our way, I received a voicemail from the construction manager. He shared with me that our projects will be through a different group who works with youth and will be working along side us throughout the week. We will have a chance to spend time with the families we work for and will also be doing ice breakers and things. So, it's obvious they are used to doing things with youth groups. So, I'm pretty excited about where God is leading us!
So, where was God today? He kept us safe, he helped us along the way, and He enjoyed our time of worship.
Blessings,
Jennifer
You’re Starting with a greatful heart! Praying for you!
ReplyDelete- Marguerite