Said and Done

This blog is due for a "wrap up" post - the last day and a half were jam-packed with dancing, hanging out, pranks, and spending every last second with our close friends made in Brazil. Tears were cried at the goodbyes, but all the tears were cried in praise and thanksgiving knowing that we are sad to leave because of the way our hearts have been touched and lives changed by the Spirit of the Lord at work in and through all the relationships built and experiences had.

Friday we woke up after a good night's rest and went for a jog around the Pampulha Lake ("Samford Soccer style" led by me ;) The girls did great despite some still feeling their injuries from earlier this week. Going into the workout, we reflected on the value of physical training and how it can prepare us for the spiritual training that we must undergo to grow in our faith and relationship with the Lord through both good times and bad. "Running the race marked out for us for the eternal prize..." --> a key phrase and concept that we all are internalizing as we return home.

Friday afternoon we had our "de-briefing session" with Raoul and all the Brazilian staff. Everyone shared one verse and phrase that sums up the trip. We were challenged to share the verse and faithfulness of Gods hand at work this week when asked about the trip when we return. I think the real challenge for each of us will be to keep it concise!!! Each one of us experienced and saw the Lord work and move in ways that were unexpected and different from what we could have ever asked or imagined to see!

Saturday closed the trip out "with a bang" as we had our final Brazilian-style party - BBQ with all the members/community of Comunidade Horizonte. The BBQ was both for our farewell and also the celebration of 12 years of ministry for the Long Family, who are moving back to the states this coming week. Of course there was MORE dancing, great food, and hugs and cheek kisses all around. It was so encouraging and great to see celebration of the Lords work through His faithful - both in our team who was there for 10 days and also in the Longs who were there for 12 years. God does not operate on time and our measure of success cannot begin to matchup with His, who works all things for good according to His purpose and power!

Our travel back was as smooth as could be - Ill be honest in saying that I am EXHAUSTED and definitely will need a solid night of sleep and day of recovery to feel back to normal here. It is always hard coming back to "normal life" when we were all so engrained in the Brazilian culture for what seemed to be longer than 10 days. Give us a day or so...we'll be ready to be home again soon ;)

I loved being with the girls and seeing how the Lord was moving in and through each one of them - His Spirit was at work in each of their hearts (mine included) and we are challenged and praying to return home changed with a passion to "live like Brazil in Birmingham." Jesus paid it all for us, and we owe it all to Him - not out of obligation but rather out of heartfelt obedience...especially based on the past week's experiences. He is faithful to lead His servants and those who trust in Him! Birmingham....here we come!