May We Spur One Another On...

I was thinking yesterday on the flight over (lots of time to think) that this is the first trip I've made to Kenya by myself. I mean, I've flown over by myself and met teams here in Nairobi but this is my first solo trip. And then I started thinking of all the people who have played a role leading to this specific time, this specific trip, and PROJECT 82. Wow....... Sometimes when we are in reflection mode, all of the sudden, we can see with such clarity that the path we are on is not as new as we might think.... and that, actually, we've been traveling it for quite a while. Which leads me to consider how far back I can go and still see the connection? Which in turn leads me to think about all the providential relationships along the way. So just for fun, I've listed a few key phrases below as reminders of those who have walked this journey with me.

Costa Rica Women's Retreat... "So, do you know anything about makeup? Ever been on a mission trip?" "Did you know this was supposed to be a closed class to pilot the Beth Moore curriculum? I don't know how it wound it up in the bulletin and you're the only one that showed up." "Ash I can't go on a mission trip this year so you take this scholarship and use it to go to Africa." "There is a boy and his father outside to be interviewed. The boy needs heart surgery in order to live but his father does not have the money." "What was that about adding a 4th bathroom to the house?" "Your name came up in discussions about filling the Missions Director Role. Would you be interested in coming in to talk to us?" "You are such a blessing to this ministry.... really? because I'm pretty sure I don't know what I'm doing. I think you just have the gift of encouragement." "So tell me your story again.... you are how old and retired? And you want to buy a company.... why?" "We'd like you to join the GO team and deliver leader training to pastors in Kenya.... no really, I'm serious." "So, you ARE buying that company but you are still willing to take on the lay leader role for missions?" "You want me to meet Kurt who with what bridge.... and what are they doing in Kenya?" "Michael was really Paul and he met with Lanny that week... Seriously?" "What time are we meeting for breakfast and did you say your daughter woke you up at 2am to show you a powerpoint on safety in Africa?" "Wi mwega, ohoro waku? .... Amosi ..... Habari aku" "Did you say she was attacked by a buffalo?" "They want us to name the baby..... really? Okay, how about Carl?" "You want to live there???" "Did you just suggest that I start a new ministry and why do you look serious?" "Can you say 2 healings in one night!" "Thursday night community group.... absolutely!" "Sure I can meet for coffee.... have we been here for 3 hours?" "I get it now and for all of this to mean something.... things have to change."

Yes, absolutely...... Things have to change. I am going to church in Nairobi today. Worshipping together with Kenyan friends lifting our voices in different languages but with the same adoration and complete abandon is one of the greatest pleasures I have ever experienced. I can hardly wait!

Tomorrow we drive to the Lakipia District. And we go seeking the God of this City, the King of these people, the Lord of this nation because..... greater things have yet to come and greater things are still to be done.... in this city!

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Heb 10:24