As Cindy has already posted, this trip had numerous moving pieces, before during and after the actual trip unfolded. As our early arrival participants got here on Saturday, the noise level increased, yet they basically instantly bonded. Everyone was helpful as needed and mindful that Cindy and I still had much work to do for the trip.
On Sunday we attended a bi-lingual church service together will our local pastor for the trip. A great experience. Sunday afternoon another early family arrived, four more children in the mix. Lucas, the 2-year-old needed some time to adjust, but he and his sisters were soon calling me Grandpa Kip which warmed my heart. Again, the families bonded instantly. 4-year-old Hazel reminded me of my four-year-old granddaughter back home, same energy, fearlessness and even many of the same words used while playing with “jungle gym” Kip.
To be honest, I questioned God as to how this trip was going to work prior to arriving, seeing the possible ministry sites, and the logistics (that Cindy and Ceasar handled so well), made me uncomfortable to say the least. I did not see how it could be successful, but then I am not God!! He had a plan and a purpose for every detail, and I had to join Him where He was working. As you read these amazing blogs, you will realize that everyone was blessed and received much more than they thought they would give. Hearts were touched and lives were definitely changed.
Seth Barnes Sr. spoke into the men in the mornings (prior to breakfast) and they have initiated a group to continue meeting in the future.
I believe we have proven this model for a Family Mission Trip has been successful. The young ones on the trip are in good hands and have witnessed their parents being missionally minded. The world is a crazy place, but starting young lives out in this way can only add hope.
I praise and thank God for the opportunities He has given Cindy, (my wife) and I. We are a blessed team, and hopefully an inspiration for marriage in general.
Love God, love your family, and love others. We can all be a light shining in the darkness. You never know how a small thing you say or do will affect someone, whom God is drawing to Himself to accept Jesus into their life!!
Step out of your comfort zones and see how God will bless. He is in control of it all, He is asking us to be part of His plan. We don’t have to understand it all, just follow where He leads, LISTEN for His voice, TEST that it is His voice, and respond to His call on your life. Will it always be easy?? No. But ultimately it will be worth it.
