Get ready, get set.......

During this season of advent, we are reminded of Jesus's humble beginning here on Earth, how a tiny baby was introduced to the world among farm animals, in the cold and without the comforts that you and I consider our 'privilege'.  The thing we tend to forget about this event is the fact that the innkeeper did allow Joseph and Mary to at least stay in the stable.  He could have just as easily sent them on their way.  God had a plan for the family, just as He has a plan for all of us.

As our team prepares for another trip to Costa Rica, I am mindful of the welcome we will expect to receive when we are so far from our own homes.  Unlike Joseph and Mary we are able to call ahead and 'make reservations' for our stay.  We will have a bed to sleep on, not a pile of hay.  We will have showers and running water.  Although we don't know exactly what work we'll be doing when we get there, we do have some idea.  We go where, we believe, He has sent us.  We are following that bright star to a place far far away.  We trust that we are doing what we are being called to do, we trust in God.  Just like Joseph and Mary, we know that He will be with us.

My hope is that we can all take the time to acknowledge the one who cares for us, who provides for all of our basic needs.  My hope and prayer is that we appreciate the things we have, both spiritual and material.  There are so many who have so much less, and need so much more.  If we trust in the one who sends us, our blessings will abound.

As we approach the new year, let's remember those in need. Let's pray more, give more of ourselves, do more to help our neighbors.  Let's spend more time with our loved ones and more time with our Maker.   I challenge you all to make the most of every humble, simple day you have here on earth.  We can all do great things, we can all be great people.  God expects great things from us..... So let's make our Father proud.

Our journey to Costa Rica begins on January 16,2014.  Please keep our team in you prayers.  Pray for our safety, pray that we are a blessing to those we meet and those we serve.  I would also like for you to pray that our lives are touched and blessed in a very special way as we answer God's call.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.  God bless us all.