Lynn's Thoughts

God has blessed this trip from the first moment. In the Dallas airport during our layover, Marty and I struck up a conversation with a woman who asked “Are these all your kids?” We laughed, but I would have been honored to claim them every one. During the entire trip here, they all behaved so responsibly and courteously, and have continued to do so. Doug and Sandy have said repeatedly how impressed they are with this group, with their enthusiasm and positive attitude. Doug told me today that he was a little concerned when he found out we were bringing some 14 and 15 year olds because he’s seen some that were unruly and had a hard time remaining focused on the reason they were here, but our teens have concentrated on our mission and thrown themselves into it wholeheartedly. Personally, I am astounded by their spiritual depth. They are so willing to open themselves up to Christ and embrace him in every way - and are not the least bit reticent about discussing their personal journeys, weaknesses, struggles and triumphs. Their joy when they speak of prayers answered is almost blinding in its intensity, and the insights they offer nightly in our devotionals are wise beyond their years. I am made humble by their spirits. I wish we could have filmed the whole of the last three days’ activities. As we worshipped with and met the members of the local congregation and visited the nursing home and orphanage. you could almost physically see the love of Christ as our teens poured it in torrents over those to whom we had come to minister. Even though not many of us speak Spanish very well, there is no language barrier here - the language of the Great and Awesome God comes through loud and clear. And the teens are speaking it in every way to our hosts and the church members here who have accompanied us as we go about the city. They are so loving - and so loved by the people they encounter. Thank you, parents, for entrusting us with your sons’ and daughters’ safety and for gifting me with the opportunity to spend this time with them. While I am being touched deeply by God daily in the things we are seeing and doing, and the wonderful people we are meeting, my greatest blessing is coming from the glory of God your children radiate.