Fantastic weekend!

This past weekend, I have been ‘Wowed’ by amazing people and circumstances. The Becthel’s and I took the van for a trip that would take us to two churches. Bobby was preach at both. One of the nights I stayed at a sweet couple’s house. They were a joy to be with, VERY kind, and hospitable. Sunday morning they took me to the church where Bobby would preach.

While Bobby did his message in service, I had a power point presentation to show the Sunday school class about Africa. The point of the presentation is to show them a different culture, to show them poverty and make them think of how thankful they can be to live in America, as well as pray for those that are not as fortunate as we are. I think it’s important for children to learn these things at a young age so they are mindful of other places in the world. The children were incredibly receptive, and full of curiosity.

The individuals I spoke with from the church, before and after service were very warm. I enjoyed the conversations. One lady I spoke with told me that she had always wanted to be a missionary. She has many friends that are and hopes she can go someday, even though she is a bit older. She said that at her age, she realizes what is important in her life and all the ‘stuff’ that she has just does not mean anything. She said, “If anything it’s stressful to have so much stuff and I don’t know what will happen with it all when I die.” We discussed how easy it is in America to get wrapped up in things and always want more, but in the end, you can’t take it with you; therefore, it is a waste of time to put so much energy into 'things'. She was very wise. I love conversations like that because after going to Africa, I learned that striving for possessions, positions, etc. in the end is pointless. When I die, I certainly won’t be thinking of the things I had, the successes I achieved, or wishing I had more, I will be thinking of the people I love and the time I spent with them.

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When we finished up at that church, we had lunch and traveled to the next church in Jacksonville FL. This time there were more children to present to. As I sat down in the children’s room, a couple little girls came and sat next to me. They were so sweet. One of them gave a gift to her friend. I told her I thought it was great that she made a bracelet for her friend. Then she told me that they exchange gifts all the time. The other girl had a gift waiting to give, too. It was a picture for her friend, she happily handed it over return the gift from her friend.

Soon enough, they heard I was going to speak about Africa. They were really excited when they found out that I was the ‘missionary lady’(that’s what they called me). One of them colored a picture for me and wrote on it, “I’ve never sat next to a missionary before!” I don’t think they realized I can’t really call myself a missionary yet. Lol, but it was so cute.

All the kids were FULL of questions about Africa, they were asking about animals and the way people live. One child asked if they have bath tubs and I let her know that in villages, they don’t bathe, or shower because they do not have the resources to. Most of them looked shocked and made funny noises when they learned that.

After the kid talk, I had the opportunity to talk with a couple of bright teenage girls. Both of them had mission work on their hearts. One of them is sure that she wants to be a missionary. The other is considering. It was inspiring to talk with these young girls that were full of ambitions to serve others and reach out for Christ.

I finished up, went into the church where Bobby and Lisa were with Ethan and Connor. They had a huge line of people just hoping to get a chance to talk to them. People waited a long time to have a conversation with them. Everyone wants to talk to the missionaries!