Rob - day 4

Let me begin with a disclaimer; I am not a blogger.  But, the vents of the past week have been so inspiring to me that I needed to share my experiences.  I am the fortunate one who has been surrounded by energetic, imaginative, and very faithful people who have been part of this mission trip.  We came to the triangle of PA, OH, and WV not quite knowing what to expect from our arrangements to serve the people of this area.  We knew we would be doing some work to help folks have access to their homes and the outside world, but that was the extent of it.  On the first day we learned a little about our families and their addresses and needs.  Then we met these great people in person and saw the distressed conditions in which they lived their everyday lives.  We wanted to pitch in to help.  But, as the days progressed, we found that they were also building us up.  We became friends, hugged dogs and shared the stories of their lives and their faith encouraged us to deepen our own.  Your kids (our kids) developed in ways that have astounded me.  Both playful and considerate, measured and excitable, each youth and adult partnered with God to do things that made all who observed their work and demeanor wonder aloud as to their foundations of faith.

I am so unbelievably honored to be a part of the youth ministries at FPCN.  Pastor Emma has done an outstanding job of getting things organized and continuing to make things fun.  The adult volunteers were once again amazing in their own right as they found such a strong balance between protecting, encouraging, and stretching the limits that our youth have either had placed upon them or they placed upon themselves. 

Those that we thought would be the recipients of our service have now become part of our extended family of faith – and their tears and smiles and laughter have touched us all.   Thanks to the parents and supporters of these mission trips.  Without you, your kids, and your support these moments would not be possible for any of us: servants and served alike – and the essential message of God’s love and concern would be silenced.  To all of the mission team members I say thank you.  This trip will be filed away as one of the best of my memories.  God speed to all!

Rob