Seek Ye First

Alas, the day is upon us - in less than 24 hours, Joni and I will be on our way to South America at last. Today has been devoted to packing and preparations, however it’s all still a big mess in my bedroom floor at the moment. I love missions.

And tonight is a big deal for me. Because it will be time to move to college when I return from Uruguay, this is my unofficial last night at home (if I wanted to be overdramatic, I could also say last night of my childhood, but that’s just for the record.:))  This also marks my first international excursion without parental supervision and essentially my first step into the “real world.” Though it’s bittersweet, I’m ready.

To put it bluntly - I’m about to burst with excitement. I’ve always thought that the night before a missions trip is way more fun than the night before Christmas. As a child, the excitement came from knowing that the next day would be full of new, exciting things to satisfy my normally insatiable curiosity. Tonight, I feel the same way - the difference is that tomorrow will hold new, exciting things far more satisfying than the contents of my Christmas stocking. 

So as overwhelmed as I am tonight as I stand in between the deep breath and the plunge, I must not forget the purpose of it all. After months of praying and seeking, I’m confident that the Lord is doing great things in Uruguay. There is no normalcy or mediocrity when we get involved in what our God is doing, and oh how He’s stirring in South America this night! Though I seek great things in great faith from the Lord, my cousin reminded me tonight to “‘ ... seek first his kingdom ... and all these things will be given to you as well.”(Matthew 6:33)

As a side note ... I cannot express how grateful I am to each of you for the incredible outpouring leading up to this trip. You far exceeded my expectations with your prayers, support, gifts and enthusiasm. Because of you, we go forth lacking nothing and resting fully under the authenticity of your prayers. I could not ask for more.

So whatever we encounter this summer, it’s all simply added upon our sole pursuit of the Kingdom of God. For when heaven and earth collide, a revolution of eternal proportions ensues . . . Jesus, let our eyes be fixed on You!

Going out in joy ...