Morning Thoughts

Good Morning, 

I am forwarding a message from Roxanne and also a devotion from Elisabeth Elliot to give us things to meditate and pray on as we finish our preparations for the mission God has called us to.  May we be His loving hands and feet to all we come across and trust His timing and plans in all. 

This week’s Elisabeth Elliot Devotion: at-every-stage-of-the-journey 

Blessings, 

Deb 

1 John 4:19 "We love because He first loved us." 

1 Juan 4:19 "Nosotros amamos porque Él Señor amó primero."

 From Roxanne - 

Subject: My thoughts this morning 

I’d like to share some verses that stood out to me this morning:

And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance;

And perseverance, character; and character, hope.

Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

Romans 5:3-5 (NKJV)

I find this particularly relevant as we prepare to leave tomorrow on our mission to the Dominican Republic. Not that I am expecting tribulations, our church has sent a team to the DR 12 times before and no bad thing has happened. But my heart has to be ready for anything, and realize that all situations are under God’s control.

A relevant verse also sticks in my heart:

“In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets.”

Matthew 7:12 (NASB)

We may wear matching tee shirts that proclaim our love for others but we must act in accordance with that. There will be frustrations, the language barrier for one, perhaps delayed flights, lost luggage, heat, loud roosters and music. But we must focus on why we are going there, not only while in the DR but with everyone we encounter on the way: flight attendants, airport personnel, fellow passengers, TSA agents, airport vendors etc. Our actions and tone of voice speak louder than any spoken word.

Remember we are not bringing God to the Dominican, He’s already at work there and we have the privilege of coming alongside Him.

Thanks,

Roxanne