We are at C.O.P this week, also known as Candidate Orientation for those of you who, like me, dislike acronyms. It is basically training for the organization (Avant) we are going with to Italy. It has been an incredibly refreshing time these two weeks. For the first time in a few months, I have felt in my element. I'm so in sync with what these people are about, namely planting churches that are indigenous (led and owned by nationals and not us white folk...we are only facilitators and ministers of the gospel). I feel like I'm getting back to my roots of Christianity...the bare bones of telling unsaved people about Jesus, coming alongside of people whose hearts Jesus has already been drawing to Himself, and discipling those believers into community with one another, with the intention of them multiplying their growth and planting churches elsewhere, even to the ends of the earth.
Whew. It felt really good to write that. I'm so sorry for the wordiness. It's just that I have been stock-piling so much information and passion and because I'm around people who get this vision, I haven't been able to verbally express it. Perhaps now I'll have room in my brain for whatever else is in store these next couple of days.
Our kids are LOVING our time here, so much so that the minute they wake up they ask to go to their class (which is two doors down from our little hotel-like room). They are having a blast with kids their ages, most of which belong to a family who is on our team. This is very exciting to me and I so see God's hand in providing for our children's needs. Elias thrives on interaction with other kids. He also thrives on routine, which I have not been able to provide him these past few months. So the 8-5 routine here has brought out the best in him. Keziah thrives on getting her energy out in any shape or form, but is especially fond of the little girl here that is her age. They follow each other around, sneak candy out of the candy dish together, and play dress-up. I feel so blessed in this moment. I can't tell you how good it feels to know God has called us and that we are obeying Him. In this moment I am able to give Him my hopes and dreams and believe that His thoughts and ways are much higher than mine. However, I am also aware of the bad days that I so often have...how I so easily believe the lies that Jesus is showing me something really good just to get me excited...like someone holding a carrot in front of a rabbit and then not giving it to the poor rodent in the end. Nonetheless, today I feel that the gray lens of pessimism has been lifted and I'm abandoning all to my Father, who gives good gifts to His children.
