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Today was stupendous (one of our students made me say that.) It was really cool to see our students out and about in town sharing the love of Christ. Here are a couple of highlights from the day:
It was pretty intense to be a part of such a crazy experience. It confirmed for us (and I was so proud of our students for making this connection!), that we do not battle against flesh and blood. We are in a spiritual battle here, and everywhere for that matter. There is an oppression that exists here that it seems tangible in a way. Our students feel it, as do our adults. We were reminded that we are completely and desperately dependent on God to work in and through us. If Jesus doesn't come through, then we are sunk. As frightening as that is, I wouldn't have it any other way. Pray for us tomorrow. Expecting great things.
Grace and Peace,
Matt
Ladies and Gentlemen,
We have arrived in Arizona! Yesterday morning we left Mountain View Church in Glenwood Springs, CO and headed to our final destination of Page, AZ.
We were able to appreciate God's artistry as we travelled through Utah. We stopped along the Colorado River to have a sack lunch. I also challenged our male students to a friendly competition of rock skipping. In the process, I seem to have torn loose some scar tissue in my shoulder, but it was well worth it. They now have to refer to me as master skipper. (That doesn't sound nearly as masculine as it did when I thought it up.) Though the competition was fierce at times, the old lion prevailed.
It was at this point during our journey that we realized that one of our vehicles did not have enough fuel to make it out of the canyon. It was decided that while I dominated our students at skipping rocks, Mr. Morton and Mr. Rabb would drive the bus out to acquire fuel.
After lunch we will back on the road. This was not a simple task. We were already without cruise control, when our students on the back of the bus informed us that they smelled burning rubber. We pulled over to find the inside rear tire (dually) was leaving bits of itself all over the highway.
The bus limped the rest of the way. Here are some observations I was able to make as we sped down the highway at 45 miles per hour.
We arrived at the First Southern Baptist Church of Page, AZ late last night and were welcomed by Pastor Allen Davidson and his lovely wife Sally. Keep them in your prayers. They are a great couple, and wonderful hosts!
We were all pretty tired last night and went to sleep with ease. This morning, we had the privelege of worshipping with the local congregation here. Connor Patterson led us into worship (and did a fantastic job!), and I shared with our the church from Isaiah 6. The highlight of the day was the potluck lunch after morning worship. The food was definately off the hook, but it was the fellowship that made the morning so great! There are wonderful people in the church here, and I believe God has a great future for them.
Tomorrow we will begin serving the community here according to the needs that are presented. We are praying for the Holy Spirit's direction, and trusting that He will make His will clear for us each day. Please pray for the following:
We love you guys and appreciate your support. Can't wait to share what God does tomorrow!
Grace and Peace,
Matt
Our Mission Trip to Page, AZ is just two days away! I know that God has already done some great things in your life as you have been preparing for this week, and I really believe that He is going to continue to do amazing things in your life as you go on mission for Him.
A couple of things that I would like to encourage you to do for the next couple of days.
1.) Pray like a mad man (or mad woman as the case may be). Each one of us needs to be desparate for God to lead us. Pray with urgency! Pray with humility!
2.) Invite others to pray with you and for you.
3.) Meet at the church at 12 PM on Friday (Don't Be Late.)
Know that I am praying for each one of you by name. I believe in you, and trust you! God is going to rock your face as you serve others.
Parents and Friends,
Please keep us in your prayers, over the next week and a half. We are dependent on the Spirit's leading as we seek to serve the community of Page, AZ. Pray for your student, as well as the others. Do so by name! We are trusting in God to do mighty things this next week, and we covet your prayers.
Please keep checking this blog. It will be updated on a daily basis once we leave for our week away. This will be the best way for us to communicate information to you. See you on Friday at Noon!
Grace and Peace,
Matt