They need us.

I realize that my posts have been less than exciting the past several months. As things begin to rev up in our journey back to Africa, I am sure we will have more interesting and personal news to share.

We are looking at 9-12 months before we move to Africa, depending on God's provision and timing. It seems like plenty of time, but we know it will be here before we know it.

Once again, we are faced with the reality of what we are asking our children to give up. As adults, we understand and are at peace with giving up the comforts of America and the ease of living near family and friends. It isn't without some sadness, but the discomfort is temporary, the benefits eternal.

We talk about the Nations and those who have not heard about Jesus with the kids often. Now our conversations have shifted into preparing them to return to Africa, for longer this time. Sometimes these conversations are met with tears of sadness not wanting to leave their friends and family, especially their little cousin. Sometimes they are met with excitement, as they remember the adventures we had last time. And some times, they are met with understanding and maturity beyond their young age.

We have told our kids it is important that they are always honest with mommy and daddy about how they are feeling about being missionaries. It's OK to be sad. It's OK to be happy. It's OK to be both at the same time. It's OK to not want to go sometimes. It's OK to be excited to go sometimes. They have done a good job at being honest, expressing a wide range of emotions.

During bedtime prayer last night we asked the kids, how are you feeling about Africa. Daughter, whose answer changes from day to day, moment to moment, said, "I am feeling good!". We asked why, expecting the run of the mill answer of some fun memory from our last trip.

With sincerity and maturity she looked at us and said, "Because I realize there are people who don't have what we have. They don't have food or clothes, and they don't know Jesus. They need us."

Tomorrow her answer may be different, but I know that God has been ministering and speaking to her heart, bringing her comfort and understanding far beyond what mommy and daddy ever could.

Thank you, Father, for speaking and ministering to our daughter. Please continue to prepare and protect her heart for what lies ahead.