July 13, 2006

The "Big" Day

Tomorrow, Friday, is the BIG day for us - the day we go before the ABWE board for appointment. We happen to be one of the last candidates to go, since we are in the undecided group. Lucky for us! We had a session that I think was supposed to help us to feel better about it, but I'm almost more nervous now than I was before (and I heard some similar comments from others!). So, please pray for us as we give our testimonies and answer the questions that they have for us.

The staff here are very friendly and helpful. They are really interested in us and our success on the mission field. We have been very impressed by that. They have many resources at our disposal, particularly some online subscriptions that are free to all missionaries. This way we all have access to some helpful information, resources, and sites on foreign fields - of course we have to have the Internet! Everywhere we go, they say hello or ask if they can help us. I almost feel like I am at Northland again!

We have been getting more sleep lately. The last two nights have been 7-7 1/2 hrs. Not my optimum amount of sleep, but it's a lot better than the four or five we got at the beginning of the week. Thankfully next week, when the boys will be with us, the evening sessions end at 8:30. The morning will still be early for them, but not as bad as it has been this week!

There are 85 candidates this year - the largest candidate class ABWE has ever had. It is humbling to meet all these people who want to serve the Lord on the mission field. It's like attending the hugest mission's conference ever! I wish you could all experience it even for a day because I know it would touch your heart as well.

We are still seeking direction from the Lord, talking with various missionaries and administrators, and considering the fields. We will be going before the board as undecided which is what we had planned before we even came. Since we have been here, two people have advised us the same way. We do not want to make a rash or emotional decision. I have had to learn over the years that life is not a race. God knows our future and where He wants us. He will show us in the perfect time. If we are following His will, we will make the right decision, at the right time, and get to the field at a time already appointed. We just need to take one step at a time towards the finish line. Paul said we should "press toward the mark", but he didn't say we should rush through life to get there. That is what I need to keep in mind throughout this process.

Please continue to pray. Your prayers are needed, desired, and felt. God's hand has been upon us this week and He continues to work in us.