Just an ordinary family

What has struck me as we have been preparing for this trip has been people's reactions to us going. To begin with, we have not had one negative comment, instead, it's been quite the opposite. The support and encouragement our family has been incredible--much more than we ever anticipated (to be honest, a bit overwhelming).

I am humbled by the outpouring of support, and reminded of God's provision.

Proverbs 16:9 says, "We can make our plans, but the Lord directs our steps."

We can have the best laid plans ever, but it is up to God to bring them to pass. Yes, our family had dreams and plans for a mission trip, but the coming together of the details have truly been the work of the Lord.

The fact is, you don't need to go to another country to be on a "mission trip", missions (for everyone) starts in your own back yard. Just because someone goes overseas to spread the Gospel, they are no less a "Christian" then the one who is home, looking after their children and taking a meal to the new neighbour across the street. Our actions and attitudes wherever we are are all part of spreading God's love. This is not hinged on going somewhere new.

In saying this, I don't want to minimize the impact that going to Mexico (or any country where poverty is present) will have on our family--especially our teens. It's just that we are not claiming or pretending to be any more "spiritual" than the next guy, we just happen to be following through with something God has laid on our family's heart. We are just an ordinary family.