For the past week we have been visiting my parents. The kids have loved being spoiled by  their grandma and grandpa! We have all had plenty of time to relax, catch up and enjoy one another. What a blessing! As our time here is coming to an end, my mind is starting to race with all of the preparations that await me at home. Once back at home, we will have approximately 5 weeks to sell/give away/store the rest of our belongings; say good-bye to family and friends in Michigan and pack for 3 months in Swaziland. We will be going to serve in whatever way we can and, also, to figure out if we feel compelled to return to Swaziland long term, and to take some time to figure out logistics like housing and schooling for our kids if we were to return and call Africa 'home' for the next several years!  We are so excited to follow the Lord's leading in this next part of our journey! We realize, however, that we are heading into unknown territory. We will prepare as much as we can. We will rely on God's grace and guidance, as well as the prayers and support of family and friends, for the rest!

We are not completely sure what our work will be once we arrive in Swaziland.  What we DO know, is that we will be called upon to serve and love the community of Nsoko. We will have to stay in constant communion with the Father, through prayer and His Holy Word. As a family, we will find ourselves needing to cling to one another; support and encourage one another. We will be stretched. The lessons and truths that we have been studying through the life of Jesus Christ will become the blueprint by which we construct each day. If HE does not show up...we will fail.

Our prayer is that we will empty ourselves out of this entire experience. That we would get out of the way. That through our hands, our feet, the prayers spoken through our mouths...the love and mercy of Jesus Christ will flow. We desire to be instruments of grace, deliverers of mercy and conduits of love. Are we ready?

I think a quote by Angus Buchan of Shalom Ministries in South Africa says it best:

"God is not interested so much in your ability but rather your availability!"

Eric, myself, Claire and Jacob say to our God in one voice: "We are available, O Lord. You are sending us, You will give us what we need and You alone will be glorified! We are ready...because YOU go before us." AMEN and AMEN