Joy For All Blog Post Archive

“Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe.” 1 Timothy 4:12 (New American Standard Bible) This is an excerpt from an interview that I had with Leah and Noah this week regarding the upcoming trip to the Czech Republic.  Leah is our bubbly 12-year old, and Noah is nearing 10 years old in January. At this age, they will be younger than any of the students at camp, nevertheless, they are looking forward to serving and making a difference.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (New American Standard Bible) I am filled with excitement! I love meeting new people! I really love meeting new people! What could be better than meeting new people in a new country and sharing the everlasting joy that Jesus brings? It’s like a dream come true! I am counting the days; there are less than two weeks to go!

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4: 6-7 (New International Version) My excitement is building as the trip gets nearer. There is just less than three weeks left till we leave for the Czech Republic and we’re working on some last minor details. Somehow though, it seems that it has crept up on me and all of a sudden. It’s here!

“But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.“ John 3:21 (New International Version) How do I feel about going to Czechia? To be honest, I have been busy with day-to-day life. School. Sickness. Doctor’s appointments. Shopping. Cooking. I tend to take things one day at a time. Then Doug reminds me of the countdown (less than a month!) and it hits me: It feels like there is so much to do, and so little time to do it. I have been keeping busy with the to-do lists and not spending time on the wonder of what is ahead.

“Dear brothers and sisters, after we were separated from you for a little while (though our hearts never left you), we tried very hard to come back because of our intense longing to see you again.”  1Thessalonians 2:17 (New Living Translation)
Upon returning from the Czech Republic in August, I felt like I had left a piece of my heart behind.  God had showed us all how to love our Czech friends with His love.  Then we had to leave. There was a lot to be thankful for.