August 11, 2008
Central and College Park Visits
It's been a really busy weekend!! We had youth activities Friday and Saturday nights that got us in bed around 2 AM each night, but it was great to be with those guys. Camille and I had a yard sale Saturday and are a little bit closer to being rid of some stuff, and raised enough money to get our shots! YAY! (Camille wasn't as excited about that news as I was, of course...)
Sunday morning, we traveled about 30 minutes to the small town of Central, to speak at the COGOP there. Pastor Lonnie Donald was MY pastor as a young girl, and I loved being able to see his wife, Faye, his daughters Loretta and Lahoma, who are both grandmothers now, and the extended family. Their church was also very welcoming.
We got to see old friends there and meet some new ones. The service was very refreshing for our family, as everything from the Sunday School lesson to the song to the sermon was dead-on what we needed to hear right now. We were reminded that no matter what happens around us, no matter where we are, God is in control, and He is GREAT! When it came time to give our presentation, the girls had both practiced a little "speech" to give. Then Caroline sang a song in Spanish and English while Camille played the cajon (box drum). We were SOOO proud of them for stepping out of their comfort zones. Right up until the second she began her song, Caroline was asking me, "Do I HAVE to do this?!?!" but later agreed that she was glad she did. I guess we're all stretching a little out of our comfort zones these days.
That evening, we went to Ken's home church, College Park. Most people there are practically family, and some actually are family. It was good to be back with them all. And imagine my surprise when my old friend, Sara (Hill) McCoy showed up! I hadn't seen her in at least 10 years, but we were great friends in middle school (we went through girl scouts together--haha!) She and her family came to offer me some much-appreciated moral support and touch base with us again. It was very obvious that God is working in their lives, and SO wonderful to get to spend time with them.
The church service that evening was DYNAMIC and very powerful. As always, praise and worship is an event at College Park. The Spirit of the Lord was present and working, and we spoke after everyone had enjoyed a good bit of time basking in that. This time, Camille told a bit about the country of Paraguay, Caroline spoke a little in Spanish, and then they did their song. Again, proud parents here.
It was really wonderful to be able to share the vision the Lord has given us with so many people in one day. We love to talk about what's going on anyway, but to actually be INVITED to speak about it was such an honor for our family, and one we don't take lightly. Thank you, Central and College Park churches, for your wonderful welcome, your prayers and support, and your spirit of missions! Que Dios le bendiga! (God bless you!)
It was awesome to see you & your family again too!!!! We are so overwhelmed by what we're even contemplating it isn't even funny! We will definitely be in touch! Eddie said something about Ken being in touch with the guy from Canada, I think, about upcoming mission trips. Please let us know as you get info! Eddie wants me to make sure we have a library card & wants us to atleast go ahead and start working on getting our passports. We are going to atleast get the ball rolling & see what happens. Please do remember us in your prayers! You're in our's too! If there's anything we can do to help get you ready for November, please let me know! Love y'all!
ReplyDeleteHey again! What's the best way to get in touch with you? I've got your cell # but I also know you're super busy. I just thought if you have an email you check most often, you could respond when it was convenient for you! Also, Matthew wants Camille to email him (if she can). =) Talk to ya soon!
ReplyDeleteSara
I came over from McCoy Farm. Are you here in Paraguay?
ReplyDeleteIt has been hard to be patient waiting for y'all to get home!!!! I can't wait to hear about your trip to TN & any news about your upcoming "move"! I hope y'all had a great time & a safe trip!
ReplyDeleteSara