Giving Things Up

Over the last few weeks our transition has become more of a reality as we've each had to give up some things i.e. pets, cars, free coffee, home, satellite TV, dance lessons, toys...  It is overwhelming when you think of all that needs to happen and one must get rid of before moving overseas.

God's hand has been evident in this time for us as he has made things simpler.  We've sold the Beetle without having to advertise, good friends are taking the dog, good friends are renting our house, things we thought we would miss we are not missing much... The lesson and the truth is that we probably had too much stuff before and even now we have everything we could ever need.  Please be praying for us that we would continue to trust the LORD and seek his ways especially when it gets really hard giving up things like coffee, ice-cream, high-speed internet... no!  All kidding aside, we have been counseled that reality will not set in until we have been in Kenya for six to eight months.  We really do need you to pray with us so that we will be strong when it gets tough.

We recognize the sacrifice involved in going.  What I always come back to is remembering that there have been plenty before us that have sacrificed it all.  One of my favorite songs on the radio right now as we prepare for Easter and get ready to go is by Matt Maher, Christ Has Risen

-this is just one part of the song-

Beneath the weight of all our sin
You bowed to none but Heaven's will
No scheme of Hell, no scoffer's crown
No burden great can hold You down
In strength You reign
Forever let Your church proclaim

Christ is risen from the dead
Trampling over death by death
Come awake, come awake
Come and rise up from the grave...

 That says it all for me.  I am OK with giving up a few things.