Make every effort

After a much longer flight than planned – but everything went well – we finally arrived on the first leg of our Home Assignment: Minnesota. The wonderful family at Woodbury made sure that we had a hotel to stay on that first night. That way we did not have to try to stay awake while we were only yearning for sleep, and no one had to wait up long to take care of us (we finally got in after midnight).

The next day we had time to figure out some necessary purchases (a phone for while in the US, maps for the gps, ibuprofen for possible headaches while traveling) before being welcomed at our first stay. For the 8 days we are in Minnesota, two families we know opened their homes for us: the Fraziers and the Davidsons. The Frazier’s daughter had studied in Maastricht and they stopped in to visit with us when picking her up. The Davidson’s have been our hosts almost every time we have stopped through, so we have watched their family gropw and change throughout the years. What a blessing to experience the welcome both families extend!

In between church family activities – Wednesday night cafe, men’s prayer breakfasts, ladies lunch with Shirley, life group dinners – we have been able to shoot some hoops, share good conversations, do a bit of shopping, or play with lego’s. Everyone asks if there is anything we would like to do, but are willing to leave time to just chill as well. We were treated to a special date night dinner theater show – Beauty and the Beast – wow! (amazing how long one can remember those songs). Above all, everyone is willing to share time and talk about themselves. It is so good to get to know people and see how we are family.

We have enjoyed getting to know the life groups and meeting new people – although we will more than likely forget many of the names. The faces, however, remain. I was reminded of this on Sunday morning after a wonderful time of worship when Butch (who had to remind me of his name) let me know that he remembers us specifically and regularly in his prayers. I let him know that I remember him and specifically that he had let me know this (about his prayers) the last time we had seen each other (in 2012) and that this has been one of the big encouragements in times of struggle. We know that he is praying!

We also worshipped with the Urban Ministry group in the evening - mostly a group of Hmong families – and spent time praying and studying with the men (at prayer breakfast) and ladies (at lunch). It is exciting to be part of so many people wanting to live their faith and encourage one another. We are reminded of how large and deep the family of Christ is. We are so thankful for every effort that has been made to make us feel at home, at ease and encouraged. What a blessing it is to be a member of the family of God!

You can see a few pictures already of our time in Minnesota – here. And I will be adding to the pictures as we continue this week here. Middle of the week we will be driving on to Muscatine, Iowa and Omaha, Nebraska. More to come next week. Thanks for stopping in!