Power of a Picture

It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words, if that is the case, our family holds a book's worth of memories. As I sort through over a thousand pictures, I am amazed at the stories they hold. Even more precious than the memories are the hopes, dreams and prayers they represent.

Before our trip, we were overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and encouragement our family received. As we traveled, we knew we were surrounded by prayer and support. Coming home has been even more precious.

As we look back, we are in awe of how smoothly the trip went. 32 people were brought together and we worked with amazing unity. The team was generally healthy, no injuries were suffered. The 70 hour (round trip) drive with 10 children went quite smoothly. Border crossings and military checkpoints were no problem. Every goal we set out to accomplish was met and every person impacted to some level by this trip. At every turn, we could see God at work. When the team pulled into Ensenada, we stopped at a grocery store. A pastor from a local mission that we were to visit was there. It was more than being at the right place at the right time. Never under estimate the power of prayer.

Throughout our trip, people were praying and God was taking care of us far beyond what we will ever understand. Little details, like being done the house early, freed up some men to assist the church with digging a grave (not sure how it would have been done without the extra help). Even having a nurse present to administer the last few injections to a lady dying of cancer, as hard as it was, provided an opportunity to share God's love and compassion. By themselves, these (and many more) details may seem insignificant, but together, they are a good reminder of how God's timing is perfect and how prayer can make a difference.

So, back to the pictures, what makes them so special? These pictures are a reminder. As I look over the pictures, I am reminded of how powerful a dream can be. I am also reminded that the impact of this trip to Mexico goes way beyond our family. The power of an impacted life can make a world of difference. These pictures are also a good reminder to pray--pray for the people we met, pray for an opportunity to return & pray for those seeds that were planted.

Since returning home we've witnessed more answers to prayer. The lady from the women's shelter who wanted to leave? The day after we left, she decided she wanted to stay and get some help. We will continue to pray that the cycle of pain and abuse will end here and that her and her children will experience the healing they need. The mission we stayed with was in need of a truck. The one that carried equipment to and from the work sight was failing fast-worn out, even by Mexico standards (now that's BAD). Today we received word that a truck was donated!

We rejoice in answered prayer! God is at work and Mexico will not be forgotten.

Now . . . back to sorting more of these pictures . . .