This morning around 9 AM we left to go get Lou at the orphanage. With our driver Jeff (who was awesome and worked as a translator, too), we drove and drove, looking for the orphanage. We went down and up narrow roads, some of which almost looked too steep to go up. The address that we had turned out to be bad – the orphanage is not on Delmas 31. We decided to give up for the day after about 6 hours in a hot truck (no a/c) in 100 degree weather and get better directions tomorrow – it is an hour drive from the Mission to the orphanage. We had also planned on going to the market on the way back to stock up on food, so we stopped there.
We had prayed while we searched, hoping that the Lord would have it in His plans to pick Lou up today. And as the Lord would have it, we ran into Troy and Tara Livesay at the grocery store. We have been reading their blog for quite some time. As we shopped, we waited patiently for a time to cross their path and then we introduced ourselves. They had heard of us through the Mortensens (World Wide Village link on the right) who we ate dinner with shortly before we left the states. As we talked and explained our situation, Troy mentioned that he may have the location of the orphanage on his GPS. We managed to get done with the market checkout process at the same time and then we walked over to his vehicle.
The GPS showed that he did indeed have the location of the orphanage. Praise God – what a blessing! They graciously took their time out of their busy day to lead the way to the orphanage. After a quick 15 or so minutes, we arrived at the orphanage and said good-bye to the Livesay’s. (THANK YOU GUYS SO VERY MUCH!!) What are the chances of meeting there and at that time and that he would have that orphanage on his GPS…only God – ONLY GOD – could get something like that done!
We told the person at the orphanage desk that we were there to pick up Lou and after a long wait, we drove back to the Mission with Lou in hand.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Our Arrival
I just got access to the internet - sorry for the long delay...
Monday June 30th
The flight arrived late, but safe and sound. The situation with all of our bags went like a dream. A nice older gentleman who worked at the airport asked us in Creole how many carts we needed, showed us to a great spot to wait for the luggage, and help us to the exit. I have to learn to give better tips. I gave him $2 and he complained, so I add $3 and he then said thank you. In hindsight I should have given $5, but I am not on the salary I used to be (I am not on any salary).
There was another person at the exit that helped and demonstrated to us that we got too many carts (he consolidated them and started out the door). It was a little difficult to tell who was a worker and who wasn’t among the chaos of the moment, yet looking back at it, there were two groups of people that helped and they had uniforms on this time (as opposed to last time). The uniforms were impressive – it seems like good progress and they didn’t have them last time.
We walked out the exit with me manning the second cart following someone on the second and Tina and kids were manning the third. Two guys in uniforms took over mine and Tina’s as we realized it was OK. As we walked out, I was looking for a BHM sign (there were a few other signs) and didn’t see one. What I did notice in the crowd is a Haitian waving at me with a huge smile. I initially took him to be just someone wanting to help us. As we rounded out the back of the crowd he came up and said “Baptist Haiti Mission.” I knew then that he was there to help us out. So, I shook hands and took a few steps to be immediately greeted by Pastor Rob with a great handshake. I was surprised to see him since I knew they were busy. It made me feel important that he came to pick us up. The guy who said “Baptist Haiti Mission” apparently remembered us from our last trip. His name is Johnny and he is around 15+. He is Carter’s new best friend. Carter got a handshake and hug from him.
After packing the pickup truck full to over flowing with luggage, there was no room for Johnny. No big deal to them, he would just ride on top of the cab of the truck. These roads are very rough and narrow and steep. He had to hang on and I have no idea how he hung on – some of the bumps knocked us out of our seats.
By the time we were half way up the mountain it was dark. Pastor Rob was telling us where we were and where things were – we didn’t get that last time we came up because we couldn’t communicate with our driver.
We arrived and everyone that we met last time was here to greet us and help us. After getting a very quick rundown, they invited us to eat. There was meat, potatoes, green beans and even cookies for dessert. It was good food! We ate and then we went to our place to get further instructions. We started unpacking but were getting too tired, so we went to sleep. We didn’t get the greatest sleep. There are roosters here that apparently don’t know what a sun looks like – at 2 AM they were all communicating very loudly and didn’t start back up until 5 AM. We may have to buy a new mattress because this one smells like mildew and is really stiff.
We finished taking things out of the luggage and started putting things away. Around 8:30 we made eggs (there was 2 dozen in the fridge when we arrived) and then had a visitor – it was Patti the Director’s wife. She gave us further details about the place:
• Termites in the cupboards
• More frequent kidnappings of Americans locally
• Where the laundry facilities are
• When the common meal times are (M, W, and F)
They are very busy during the next month or so. This means that we’ll be on our own somewhat for a while. This should help us get acclimated to our surroundings.
Monday June 30th
The flight arrived late, but safe and sound. The situation with all of our bags went like a dream. A nice older gentleman who worked at the airport asked us in Creole how many carts we needed, showed us to a great spot to wait for the luggage, and help us to the exit. I have to learn to give better tips. I gave him $2 and he complained, so I add $3 and he then said thank you. In hindsight I should have given $5, but I am not on the salary I used to be (I am not on any salary).
There was another person at the exit that helped and demonstrated to us that we got too many carts (he consolidated them and started out the door). It was a little difficult to tell who was a worker and who wasn’t among the chaos of the moment, yet looking back at it, there were two groups of people that helped and they had uniforms on this time (as opposed to last time). The uniforms were impressive – it seems like good progress and they didn’t have them last time.
We walked out the exit with me manning the second cart following someone on the second and Tina and kids were manning the third. Two guys in uniforms took over mine and Tina’s as we realized it was OK. As we walked out, I was looking for a BHM sign (there were a few other signs) and didn’t see one. What I did notice in the crowd is a Haitian waving at me with a huge smile. I initially took him to be just someone wanting to help us. As we rounded out the back of the crowd he came up and said “Baptist Haiti Mission.” I knew then that he was there to help us out. So, I shook hands and took a few steps to be immediately greeted by Pastor Rob with a great handshake. I was surprised to see him since I knew they were busy. It made me feel important that he came to pick us up. The guy who said “Baptist Haiti Mission” apparently remembered us from our last trip. His name is Johnny and he is around 15+. He is Carter’s new best friend. Carter got a handshake and hug from him.
After packing the pickup truck full to over flowing with luggage, there was no room for Johnny. No big deal to them, he would just ride on top of the cab of the truck. These roads are very rough and narrow and steep. He had to hang on and I have no idea how he hung on – some of the bumps knocked us out of our seats.
By the time we were half way up the mountain it was dark. Pastor Rob was telling us where we were and where things were – we didn’t get that last time we came up because we couldn’t communicate with our driver.
We arrived and everyone that we met last time was here to greet us and help us. After getting a very quick rundown, they invited us to eat. There was meat, potatoes, green beans and even cookies for dessert. It was good food! We ate and then we went to our place to get further instructions. We started unpacking but were getting too tired, so we went to sleep. We didn’t get the greatest sleep. There are roosters here that apparently don’t know what a sun looks like – at 2 AM they were all communicating very loudly and didn’t start back up until 5 AM. We may have to buy a new mattress because this one smells like mildew and is really stiff.
We finished taking things out of the luggage and started putting things away. Around 8:30 we made eggs (there was 2 dozen in the fridge when we arrived) and then had a visitor – it was Patti the Director’s wife. She gave us further details about the place:
• Termites in the cupboards
• More frequent kidnappings of Americans locally
• Where the laundry facilities are
• When the common meal times are (M, W, and F)
They are very busy during the next month or so. This means that we’ll be on our own somewhat for a while. This should help us get acclimated to our surroundings.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Big Day
Today is the big day! We had a day yesterday with a great breakfast, lunch, and supper (Kayla picked what we ate for supper) with great company. We are mostly ready with just a few things to do this morning. I'll be posting as soon as it makes sense which may be after we get Lou. So this next family picture will include our newest son.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Plan update
We leave early Monday morning and fly straight through Miami (with a two hour lay over) to Port-au-Prince, Haiti (PAP). We have heavy bags. The weight of the carry-ons is what I personally care about the most since those bags will be with us through the trip. After packing (and re-packing) the checked luggage, one bag will be at 70lbs since we were told that we could purchase extra weight (and it is heavy!). We are at the weight limit of every bag. I have the biggest backpack known to man!It was suggested to us that it would be best to pick up Lou the day after we arrive since the flight into PAP is typically late and by the time get near the mission, it would be too dark outside to pick up Lou first. So the new plan is that we will arrive at the airport and go straight through to the BHM. We'll drive back down the mountain to PAP to pick up Lou on Tuesday (oh happy day!). This will give us a short chance to get unpacked on Monday and ready for Lou.
Other than that, there has been no change to the plan. We'll be cleaning my parents house today where we have been staying (thank you for your kindness, patience, and helpfulness Mom and Dad!) and tomorrow we will be doing final packing of our carry-ons and clothes that we have been wearing.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Time is flying
Staying true to one of my purposes of maintaining this blog, I will write about a process of missionary work that we have just completed:
Time is just flying by this last week. The last two days we have been working on sending our first letter out to friends and family. It was a process that has been in the making for quite sometime. From the content of the letter, to the distribution list, to the logistics of putting it together and sending it out.
We will put them in the mail today. There is a two page letter that is printed front-to-back, a one-page form for submitting donations, and a return envelope. Thanks to my dad for his helpful diligence, we got this done without too much trouble. We pre-filled most forms with the specific recipients personal information and even put their return address on the envelope within which the donation form is to be included. Each letter is customized to each recipient. Tina and I prayed over all the letters with the hopes that people receive the letter and see that we have been led by God to (and through) this journey thus far and that we will continue to follow the Lord and do His work in Haiti.
Increasingly, we have had to pass on a number of opportunities to get together with friends. I regret each and every opportunity that we have had to decline. I hope that everyone understands. Two particular opportunities that I regret declining the most is not being able to meet with our small group and not being able to make it to the last Missions Fellowship that our church holds the last Friday of every month (with thanks to some great people - Julie and Tom!). Time is so short and I pray that I am using it wisely.
Time is just flying by this last week. The last two days we have been working on sending our first letter out to friends and family. It was a process that has been in the making for quite sometime. From the content of the letter, to the distribution list, to the logistics of putting it together and sending it out.We will put them in the mail today. There is a two page letter that is printed front-to-back, a one-page form for submitting donations, and a return envelope. Thanks to my dad for his helpful diligence, we got this done without too much trouble. We pre-filled most forms with the specific recipients personal information and even put their return address on the envelope within which the donation form is to be included. Each letter is customized to each recipient. Tina and I prayed over all the letters with the hopes that people receive the letter and see that we have been led by God to (and through) this journey thus far and that we will continue to follow the Lord and do His work in Haiti.
Increasingly, we have had to pass on a number of opportunities to get together with friends. I regret each and every opportunity that we have had to decline. I hope that everyone understands. Two particular opportunities that I regret declining the most is not being able to meet with our small group and not being able to make it to the last Missions Fellowship that our church holds the last Friday of every month (with thanks to some great people - Julie and Tom!). Time is so short and I pray that I am using it wisely.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Clarification - Plan Update
I had dinner last night with a good, long-time friend of mine, Dave, who laid some things out striaght for me (Dave has a blog that focuses on remembering "that we are mortal and like all before us and after us, each of us will someday die.")
One of the topics of our conversation was when he asked me how honest he should be in his answer to my question of "Tell me what you think of what I am doing." On a scale of 1 - 10 with 10 being brutally honest, I did not hesitate to ask for the 10. After a lengthy discussion, one of the things that I learned from that part of our conversation was that what I was planning to do at the Baptist Haiti Mission was not all that clear. So the point of this post will be to clarify what I expect to be doing while serving as a missionary in Haiti...
Tina and I have known for quite some time that we have servant hearts - we like to help people and be behind the scenes (i.e., not on the front lines). Tina and I have both taken a couple of those personality/spiritual gifts tests that confirm that this is the way the Lord made us.
That being said, it is my expectation that Tina and I will be servants to the Lord through the Baptist Haiti Mission. At the mission, I plan to do whatever they need done. This includes things like fixing cars/trucks/doors/windows/locks/hospital equipment/generator/water systems/gardening/deliveries/construction... the list is virtually endless. We will take the opportunities to share our stories to those we are with by developing relationships with them first. By helping the mission do the work that they need done, we will be helping them to help the people of Haiti in the name of Jesus. These expectations of mine may not be exactly straight, but they will be very close.
Dave, thank you for your word fitly spoken.
I plan to write in the near future something more about how we were drawn to Haiti. Things like this are really hard for me to get in writing, but I'll do my best (with the help of my wife).
One of the topics of our conversation was when he asked me how honest he should be in his answer to my question of "Tell me what you think of what I am doing." On a scale of 1 - 10 with 10 being brutally honest, I did not hesitate to ask for the 10. After a lengthy discussion, one of the things that I learned from that part of our conversation was that what I was planning to do at the Baptist Haiti Mission was not all that clear. So the point of this post will be to clarify what I expect to be doing while serving as a missionary in Haiti...
Tina and I have known for quite some time that we have servant hearts - we like to help people and be behind the scenes (i.e., not on the front lines). Tina and I have both taken a couple of those personality/spiritual gifts tests that confirm that this is the way the Lord made us.
That being said, it is my expectation that Tina and I will be servants to the Lord through the Baptist Haiti Mission. At the mission, I plan to do whatever they need done. This includes things like fixing cars/trucks/doors/windows/locks/hospital equipment/generator/water systems/gardening/deliveries/construction... the list is virtually endless. We will take the opportunities to share our stories to those we are with by developing relationships with them first. By helping the mission do the work that they need done, we will be helping them to help the people of Haiti in the name of Jesus. These expectations of mine may not be exactly straight, but they will be very close.
Dave, thank you for your word fitly spoken.
I plan to write in the near future something more about how we were drawn to Haiti. Things like this are really hard for me to get in writing, but I'll do my best (with the help of my wife).
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Monday, June 23, 2008
Yet More Luggage Fun
Going through our belongings - phase III...
To replace our checked luggages, we got suitcases from our friend Greg, from two thrift stores, from a store (two of which were broken and so I got a good deal on them), from my parents collection, and from a friend of my mom's. Thank you all so very much!
So far, this process took a half-day or slightly longer. Now we have about one whole day left of repacking. This would have been much, much worse had we found this out on our day of travel at 5 AM. I have no idea what we would have done then, but I am glad that I do not have to think about it. Thank you Adele and praise God!
To replace our checked luggages, we got suitcases from our friend Greg, from two thrift stores, from a store (two of which were broken and so I got a good deal on them), from my parents collection, and from a friend of my mom's. Thank you all so very much!
So far, this process took a half-day or slightly longer. Now we have about one whole day left of repacking. This would have been much, much worse had we found this out on our day of travel at 5 AM. I have no idea what we would have done then, but I am glad that I do not have to think about it. Thank you Adele and praise God!
More Luggage Fun
After talking with four more people from American Airlines and getting three different answers, I finally spoke with a supervisor. I CAN buy extra weight in the free baggage allowance, cannot buy extra bags and CANNOT use our Rubbermaid containers. They are considered a box and cannot be used during the summer travel embargo. Time to start locating cheap suitcases no larger than 62" in total length, width, and height and to start repacking. Giddyup!
Luggage Fun
Based on a suggestion by one of the missionaries at the Mission, I called American Airlines to make sure that we were all set with the luggage situation. When I ordered the tickets in the middle of May, I asked about luggage and was told one thing. I called a couple weeks later, closer to when we were packing, and was told another thing (that we couldn't purchase any extra luggage or buy extra weight).
Well...the conversations yesterday were totally confusing. The first lady that I talked to told me that there were no restrictions on buying extra luggage and that I could buy whatever I wanted to. I asked her to verify that information because it was different than what I was told last time and so she tried but very confidently said, "There is only one page of information that I can look at and this is what it says." I thanked her and immediately called right back to get another person. This other person, John, also was very confident, but he told me something different. I could not buy extra luggage, yet I could pay for extra weight. BUT THE REAL KICKER WAS THAT I COULD NOT USE RUBBERMAID CONTAINERS!!
Somehow I managed to remain calm and evacuate my true feelings on either side of my brain as I discussed the fact that I have now received four different answers from four different people. Since it is 4:21 AM right now, I'll wait to call again until I am fully awake, but I will be calling at least two other times later today to figure out the rules. I am not very confident that I will be able to get one "correct answer" and I almost fully convinced that in the end it will be up to the agent checking in my luggage - which makes it all the more difficult. One thing I know for sure is that I do not want to go to the airport being concerned that I may have to re-pack all of our stuff right there in the airport and leave more things behind. So, after making a determination of how we should pack, we may have to make changes, which in the end may be a good thing because we could purchase more weight or baggage. I just can't tell you how sick I am of packing after doing it for a month!
I think this may be training ground for the experiences that we may have in Haiti. God does have, after all, a purpose for everything. Romans 8:28 "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."
Well...the conversations yesterday were totally confusing. The first lady that I talked to told me that there were no restrictions on buying extra luggage and that I could buy whatever I wanted to. I asked her to verify that information because it was different than what I was told last time and so she tried but very confidently said, "There is only one page of information that I can look at and this is what it says." I thanked her and immediately called right back to get another person. This other person, John, also was very confident, but he told me something different. I could not buy extra luggage, yet I could pay for extra weight. BUT THE REAL KICKER WAS THAT I COULD NOT USE RUBBERMAID CONTAINERS!!
Somehow I managed to remain calm and evacuate my true feelings on either side of my brain as I discussed the fact that I have now received four different answers from four different people. Since it is 4:21 AM right now, I'll wait to call again until I am fully awake, but I will be calling at least two other times later today to figure out the rules. I am not very confident that I will be able to get one "correct answer" and I almost fully convinced that in the end it will be up to the agent checking in my luggage - which makes it all the more difficult. One thing I know for sure is that I do not want to go to the airport being concerned that I may have to re-pack all of our stuff right there in the airport and leave more things behind. So, after making a determination of how we should pack, we may have to make changes, which in the end may be a good thing because we could purchase more weight or baggage. I just can't tell you how sick I am of packing after doing it for a month!
I think this may be training ground for the experiences that we may have in Haiti. God does have, after all, a purpose for everything. Romans 8:28 "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."
Saturday, June 21, 2008
House
On Thursday, we presigned paperwork for the closing of our home. On Friday, the new owners signed their paperwork and the house situation was complete. Tina and I went to pick up the check. Thank you for your prayers in this matter! The buyers were the best we could have asked for and everything went as smoothly as possible - God deserves all the praise for this because it was a significant event! We have said that it was as if this was one hurdle that was removed for us in our journey. We put everything in the Lord's fully capable hands, trusting that He works all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).
It's amazing how little money was left when we got the check. When I think about how long we have been there, we should have more money to show for it. We would have more money to show for it if we hadn't gotten caught up in the materialism of life in our earlier years (I'll take most of the responsibility here). Taking a home equity loan out for a vehicle and travel trailer/camper makes a significant dent. Credit card debt in our real early years are still the roots of that tree. To think of the money that was earned, spent, and virtually wasted on ourselves sure makes me think about what my money should be used for. We have been changed significantly in our handling of money since about 2 years ago. I cannot directly see what our tithes given to church have done, but I know it has been used for something better than a bottle of pop, a dinner at McDonalds, or car parts - all of which were done for myself (selfishnes, comfort, etc...) and none of which I can recall. I have more reflection to do on this. If the Lord calls us back to the States to live, I pray and know that I will do things differently than we did in our beginning. God is so gracious!
We have driven by the "old" house a couple times already. The first time it was strange to think that if we walked on the yard, we would be trespassing. The second time we saw one of the new owners carrying a baby with a little dog on our...on their front porch. Two vehicles were in the garage (I wonder if they'll paint over the flames on the wall...). We have some good memories of that house. It is now time to create some new memories that will, by the Lord's grace, reflect our treasure, an ever lasting treasure - knowing and trusting in Jesus.
It's amazing how little money was left when we got the check. When I think about how long we have been there, we should have more money to show for it. We would have more money to show for it if we hadn't gotten caught up in the materialism of life in our earlier years (I'll take most of the responsibility here). Taking a home equity loan out for a vehicle and travel trailer/camper makes a significant dent. Credit card debt in our real early years are still the roots of that tree. To think of the money that was earned, spent, and virtually wasted on ourselves sure makes me think about what my money should be used for. We have been changed significantly in our handling of money since about 2 years ago. I cannot directly see what our tithes given to church have done, but I know it has been used for something better than a bottle of pop, a dinner at McDonalds, or car parts - all of which were done for myself (selfishnes, comfort, etc...) and none of which I can recall. I have more reflection to do on this. If the Lord calls us back to the States to live, I pray and know that I will do things differently than we did in our beginning. God is so gracious!
We have driven by the "old" house a couple times already. The first time it was strange to think that if we walked on the yard, we would be trespassing. The second time we saw one of the new owners carrying a baby with a little dog on our...on their front porch. Two vehicles were in the garage (I wonder if they'll paint over the flames on the wall...). We have some good memories of that house. It is now time to create some new memories that will, by the Lord's grace, reflect our treasure, an ever lasting treasure - knowing and trusting in Jesus.
Dog
We received a call on Thursday from the new owners of our dog. They were calling to find out if we had the micro-chip in her. They lost her. She ran away.
She had apparently broken two of their other chains and had now had been missing for a couple hours. They had a choke-collar on her. Why someone would put a choke collar on any dog is a little beyond me (with few exceptions for rottweilers, american terriers, etc...). He said that they were training her. How you can train a dog with a choke collar, on a leash, all by itself in a yeard is beyond me (distance learning/training perhaps) - it seems rediculous and not too thoughtful.
I hadn't attached to any dog as much as I had to this dog. Parts of me are pretty torn up inside. We have their number so we can call them back to find out what happened (if they got her back), but I think I would rather just not know. I would like to leave the possibilities of what happened to her wide open instead of narrowing them down. I want to be able to believe that she disappeared far away enough to find a new owner that cares for her and she for them. The owners said that they could tell that she missed us greatly. This tells me that she wasn't attaching to them. When we had her, we didn't have to chain her up at all in the yard - she always stuck by us. Her behavior with them isn't normal (although, the situation she is in isn't normal either).
Hindsight being 20/20, I would have checked out a few folks to see which one we and the dog liked best. We had a number of people email me saying that they wanted to meet her after these new owners had come to pick her up. I think now that one of those would have been a better choice (or two, three of those).
She had apparently broken two of their other chains and had now had been missing for a couple hours. They had a choke-collar on her. Why someone would put a choke collar on any dog is a little beyond me (with few exceptions for rottweilers, american terriers, etc...). He said that they were training her. How you can train a dog with a choke collar, on a leash, all by itself in a yeard is beyond me (distance learning/training perhaps) - it seems rediculous and not too thoughtful.
I hadn't attached to any dog as much as I had to this dog. Parts of me are pretty torn up inside. We have their number so we can call them back to find out what happened (if they got her back), but I think I would rather just not know. I would like to leave the possibilities of what happened to her wide open instead of narrowing them down. I want to be able to believe that she disappeared far away enough to find a new owner that cares for her and she for them. The owners said that they could tell that she missed us greatly. This tells me that she wasn't attaching to them. When we had her, we didn't have to chain her up at all in the yard - she always stuck by us. Her behavior with them isn't normal (although, the situation she is in isn't normal either).
Hindsight being 20/20, I would have checked out a few folks to see which one we and the dog liked best. We had a number of people email me saying that they wanted to meet her after these new owners had come to pick her up. I think now that one of those would have been a better choice (or two, three of those).
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
It's Small, it'll Fit
Our new saying for the last two weeks has been - "It's small, it'll fit." It was funny at first, but is starting to not be funny. We are not only out of room in our allowed baggage, but we have to get rid of things that are already packed. I think we'll probably end up unpacking to re-prioritize and re-pack. We'll be working on that in the next couple days.
I don't think that we could have packed any other way without knowing how much will fit. My original plan was to have a bunch of stuff outlining a room in prioritized order and then start packing. Things didn't work out that way, but that's fine. This works, but is more work. Some of our carry-ons may be out of compliance in overall dimensions, yet I think we'll be OK.
How's that for a boring post...
I don't think that we could have packed any other way without knowing how much will fit. My original plan was to have a bunch of stuff outlining a room in prioritized order and then start packing. Things didn't work out that way, but that's fine. This works, but is more work. Some of our carry-ons may be out of compliance in overall dimensions, yet I think we'll be OK.
How's that for a boring post...
Discipline and the Pony Express
The following is taken from:
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life
Donald S. Whitney
The Pony Express was a private express company that carried mail by an organized relay of horseback riders. The eastern end was St. Joseph, Missouri, and the western terminal was in Sacramento, California. The cost of sending a letter by Pony Express was $2.50 an ounce. If the weather and horses held out and the Indians held off, that letter would complete the entire two-thousand-mile journey ina speedy ten days, as did the report of Lincoln’s Inaugural Address.
It may surprise you that the Pony Express was only in operation from April 3, 1860, until November 18, 1861 – just seventeen months. When the telegraph line was completed between two cities, the service was no longer needed.
Being a rider for the Pony Express was a tough job. You were expected to ride sevety-five to one hundred miles a day, changing horses every fifteen to twenty-five miles. Other than the mail, the only baggage you carried contained a few provisions, including a kit of flour, cornmeal, and bacon. In case of danger, you also had a medical pack of turpentine, borax, and cream of tartar. In order to travel light and to increase speed of mobility during Indian attacks, the men always rode in shortsleeves, even during the fierce winter weather.
How would you recruit volunteers for this hazardous job? An 1860 San Francisco newspaper printed this ad for the Pony Express: “Wanted: Young, skinny, wiry fellows not over 18. Must be expert riders willing to risk daily. Orphans preferred.”
Those were the honest facts about the Discipline of serving God. Like the Pony Express, serving God is not a job for the casually interested. It’s costly service. He asks for your life. He asks for service to Him to become a priority, not a pastime. He doesn’t want servants who will give Him the leftovers of their life’s commitments. Serving God isn’t a short-term responsibility either. Unlike the Pony Express, His Kingdom will never go under, no matter how technological our world gets.
The mental picture we have of the Pony Express is probably much like the one imagined by the young men of 1860 who read that newspaper ad. Scenes of excitement, camaraderie, and the thrill of adventure filled their heads as they swaggered over the Express office to apply. Yet few of them envisioned that excitement would only occasionally punctuate the routine of the long, hard hours and loneliness of the work.
The Discipline of serving is like that. Although Christ’s summons to service is the most spiritually grand and noble way to live a life, it is typically as pedestrian as washing someone’s feet. Richard Foster puts it starkly: “In some ways we would prefer to hear Jesus’ call to deny father and mother, houses and land for the sake of the gospel, than His word to wash feet. Radical self-denial gives the feel of adventure. If we forsake all, we even have the chance of glorious martyrdom. But in service we are banished to the mundane, the ordinary, the trivial.”
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life
Donald S. Whitney
The Pony Express was a private express company that carried mail by an organized relay of horseback riders. The eastern end was St. Joseph, Missouri, and the western terminal was in Sacramento, California. The cost of sending a letter by Pony Express was $2.50 an ounce. If the weather and horses held out and the Indians held off, that letter would complete the entire two-thousand-mile journey ina speedy ten days, as did the report of Lincoln’s Inaugural Address.
It may surprise you that the Pony Express was only in operation from April 3, 1860, until November 18, 1861 – just seventeen months. When the telegraph line was completed between two cities, the service was no longer needed.
Being a rider for the Pony Express was a tough job. You were expected to ride sevety-five to one hundred miles a day, changing horses every fifteen to twenty-five miles. Other than the mail, the only baggage you carried contained a few provisions, including a kit of flour, cornmeal, and bacon. In case of danger, you also had a medical pack of turpentine, borax, and cream of tartar. In order to travel light and to increase speed of mobility during Indian attacks, the men always rode in shortsleeves, even during the fierce winter weather.
How would you recruit volunteers for this hazardous job? An 1860 San Francisco newspaper printed this ad for the Pony Express: “Wanted: Young, skinny, wiry fellows not over 18. Must be expert riders willing to risk daily. Orphans preferred.”
Those were the honest facts about the Discipline of serving God. Like the Pony Express, serving God is not a job for the casually interested. It’s costly service. He asks for your life. He asks for service to Him to become a priority, not a pastime. He doesn’t want servants who will give Him the leftovers of their life’s commitments. Serving God isn’t a short-term responsibility either. Unlike the Pony Express, His Kingdom will never go under, no matter how technological our world gets.
The mental picture we have of the Pony Express is probably much like the one imagined by the young men of 1860 who read that newspaper ad. Scenes of excitement, camaraderie, and the thrill of adventure filled their heads as they swaggered over the Express office to apply. Yet few of them envisioned that excitement would only occasionally punctuate the routine of the long, hard hours and loneliness of the work.
The Discipline of serving is like that. Although Christ’s summons to service is the most spiritually grand and noble way to live a life, it is typically as pedestrian as washing someone’s feet. Richard Foster puts it starkly: “In some ways we would prefer to hear Jesus’ call to deny father and mother, houses and land for the sake of the gospel, than His word to wash feet. Radical self-denial gives the feel of adventure. If we forsake all, we even have the chance of glorious martyrdom. But in service we are banished to the mundane, the ordinary, the trivial.”
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Last Days of Owning the House
We have everything out of the house including the garage and the lawn is mowed as of this morning. The buyers are going to be conducting their final walk-through before closing on Wednesday. Our closing is scheduled for the 20th, but our realtor's mother is having surgery that day so we may be pre-signing the paperwork ahead of time. Either way, Wednesday is going to be the last day that we'll be allowed in the house. We have no reason to go back, so that's not a big deal. The garage roof didn't leak the last time it rained thanks to dry weather for the caulk to dry. It should be all set for the new owners.
With less than two weeks left, we are trying to make sure that we have everything done - transferring subscriptions and paying final bills. It is pretty freeing to have just about every tie cut free.
With less than two weeks left, we are trying to make sure that we have everything done - transferring subscriptions and paying final bills. It is pretty freeing to have just about every tie cut free.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
World Facts
A little perspective...
• 20% of the world lives on $1 per day
• 20% of the world lives on $2 per day
• 20% of the world lives on more than $70 per day
• 40% are somewhere in between $2 and $70 per day
30,000 people die per day from preventable diseases
40% of the world lacks basic sanitation
The combined income of 447 of the wealthiest people in the world is more money than the combined income of 3.25 billion people (50% of the world's population).
Americans make up 5% of the world's population, yet consume 50% of the world's resources.
Statistics taken from Serving with Eyes Wide Open - David A. Livermore - 2006
• 20% of the world lives on $1 per day
• 20% of the world lives on $2 per day
• 20% of the world lives on more than $70 per day
• 40% are somewhere in between $2 and $70 per day
30,000 people die per day from preventable diseases
40% of the world lacks basic sanitation
The combined income of 447 of the wealthiest people in the world is more money than the combined income of 3.25 billion people (50% of the world's population).
Americans make up 5% of the world's population, yet consume 50% of the world's resources.
Statistics taken from Serving with Eyes Wide Open - David A. Livermore - 2006
Friday, June 13, 2008
A Meeting with Steve
God is so good! I am just amazed at grand scheme that the Lord lays out. Back in January as I recently mentioned, we met Randy and Pat from World Wide Village (among others). Randy got us connected with Steve who had lived at the Baptist Haiti Mission for one year - right after he got out of high school.
We met with Steve last night and he had many great words of wisdom for us as we prepare to depart to Haiti. He told a number of stories about his time and expereience in Haiti and at the Mission (that we always enjoy hearing to help us understand what life is like there). He had some great suggestions and information regarding dealing with people, managing/monitoring my own family, and how to make it through the tough times that are sure to be ahead of us.
Both Tina and I felt that we were just sitting there like bumps on logs. We both value the wisdom of other fellow Christians that have been through so much. Sitting there and taking in all that people have to say seems like the best thing to do to us (we did this with Randy and Pat, too). We didn't really talk about ourselves or experience much, but rather asked questions to find out more about the people we are with, to sit and be in amazement of our Lord and the things he accomplishes, and to find out how God may be planning our lives in Haiti (however long we stay).
Steve was, and will probably continue to be, a great resource to us and a great blessing from the Lord. All the praise to God, we found wisdom in him.
PROVERBS 3:13-18
13 Blessed is the one who finds wisdom,
and the one who gets understanding,
14 for the gain from her is better than gain from silver
and her profit better than gold.
15 She is more precious than jewels,
and nothing you desire can compare with her.
16 Long life is in her right hand;
in her left hand are riches and honor.
17 Her ways are ways of pleasantness,
and all her paths are peace.
18 She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her;
those who hold her fast are called blessed.
We met with Steve last night and he had many great words of wisdom for us as we prepare to depart to Haiti. He told a number of stories about his time and expereience in Haiti and at the Mission (that we always enjoy hearing to help us understand what life is like there). He had some great suggestions and information regarding dealing with people, managing/monitoring my own family, and how to make it through the tough times that are sure to be ahead of us.
Both Tina and I felt that we were just sitting there like bumps on logs. We both value the wisdom of other fellow Christians that have been through so much. Sitting there and taking in all that people have to say seems like the best thing to do to us (we did this with Randy and Pat, too). We didn't really talk about ourselves or experience much, but rather asked questions to find out more about the people we are with, to sit and be in amazement of our Lord and the things he accomplishes, and to find out how God may be planning our lives in Haiti (however long we stay).
Steve was, and will probably continue to be, a great resource to us and a great blessing from the Lord. All the praise to God, we found wisdom in him.
PROVERBS 3:13-18
13 Blessed is the one who finds wisdom,
and the one who gets understanding,
14 for the gain from her is better than gain from silver
and her profit better than gold.
15 She is more precious than jewels,
and nothing you desire can compare with her.
16 Long life is in her right hand;
in her left hand are riches and honor.
17 Her ways are ways of pleasantness,
and all her paths are peace.
18 She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her;
those who hold her fast are called blessed.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
We Cleaned the House
The house is all cleaned up. We spent a couple hours this morning while it rained outside. The roof is still leaking, but it is now leaking white rain. This means I am patching the right area, yet the caulk is not getting a chance to dry. We'll see what happens. Perhaps the rain/caulk mix leaking into the roof is a good thing when it finally dries up.
We got a call from our realtor saying that the new owners want a final walk-through next Wednesday. Hopefully the roof is squared away by then...it is a monkey on my back (no, not Carter).
We got a call from our realtor saying that the new owners want a final walk-through next Wednesday. Hopefully the roof is squared away by then...it is a monkey on my back (no, not Carter).
The Dog is gone
We had about 5 people email me within 9 hours of posting our dog on Craigslist. The first person to come by took her to her new home. They had their first dane for a short while (less than a year) and then it got bloat where their stomach twists on the inside and they die. They wanted another right away.
Kayla and Carter seem to be doing well. As the dog's best friend, I may not be doing quite as well, but I'll get over it...eventually.
Kayla and Carter seem to be doing well. As the dog's best friend, I may not be doing quite as well, but I'll get over it...eventually.
Monday, June 9, 2008
An Opportunity to Share
Tina and I have been involved in a class for the last few month at our church. We attend the early service and then go to a Christ-centered parenting class while Kayla and Carter go to their Sunday school. This last weekend was the last week of the class until next fall.
We were asked by the wife of the leader of the class to present to the class what God is doing in our lives. This was a great blessing (thank you Bill and Nancy)! We got the opportunity to share how the Lord has led us thus far and what he has done along the way to prepare us for this journey. We also talked about what the Baptist Haiti Mission is doing and how we'll fit in. After a quick (roughly 15-20 minute) presentation, the leader and his wife prayed for us and invited others to pray as well.
After the class was over, I had great conversations with some people that I hadn't gotten the chance to speak with before. People with things in common and people with things to offer as support. The Lord works in such great ways! In everything that has been happening, I see His mighty hand directing all steps. Nothing is wasted. Nothing is without purpose - in circumstances that are good or bad.
We were asked by the wife of the leader of the class to present to the class what God is doing in our lives. This was a great blessing (thank you Bill and Nancy)! We got the opportunity to share how the Lord has led us thus far and what he has done along the way to prepare us for this journey. We also talked about what the Baptist Haiti Mission is doing and how we'll fit in. After a quick (roughly 15-20 minute) presentation, the leader and his wife prayed for us and invited others to pray as well.
After the class was over, I had great conversations with some people that I hadn't gotten the chance to speak with before. People with things in common and people with things to offer as support. The Lord works in such great ways! In everything that has been happening, I see His mighty hand directing all steps. Nothing is wasted. Nothing is without purpose - in circumstances that are good or bad.
Trials
Dog
We have had a number of people interested in the dog, but when comes down to it nobody has taken her. We haven't run out of options yet, so we'll keep trying... I just put her on Craigslist this morning: (this link will die after 45 days) http://minneapolis.craigslist.org/pet/715772377.html
Truck
I have to start trying to sell the truck. It should be pretty easy to sell a tanker truck that costs $168 to fill up the 42 gallon tank, but hey, you get more than 600 miles on one tank - that's 5 fill-ups per oil change. And you have to swipe your Visa card four times to get the tank full, which is very fun! All for about $4500 obo (which is less than Blue Book). It has less than 100k miles, albeit not much less (99,400 to be exact). This is on Criagslist here today.
Roof
The roof was still leaking as of yesterday. Big frown. About 3 tubes of silicone and I still haven't sealed the right spot. I will run home today to see if it leaked with the overnight rain. If it didn't work, it's time to call a professional (or start ripping apart siding, shingles, and flashing). This leak could be in a much worse spot - I feel blessed that it isn't on an inside location doing damage. I am very glad that it is where it is.
Paying Signing Bonus Back
I knew this was coming, but I was hoping that it wouldn't. I signed a contract when I got hired in October '07 whereby I agreed to pay back a signing bonus if I left within one year. The letter came in the mail today. They want their money. I wonder if they come knocking on my door in Haiti... Just kidding. I signed the contract - I'll pay it back.
I ask for your prayers in these matters. Not necessarily that these items would sell fast or for an awesome price (which would be great), but rather that in our trust of God for the whole process of moving to Haiti, He would be made much of. I truly want everything that I do to point to the fact that it is God in whom I trust - not craigslist, not bank statements, not convenience. He is my treasure and I would love to show/tell how wonderful life is when God is your hope. This is what life is all about.
We have had a number of people interested in the dog, but when comes down to it nobody has taken her. We haven't run out of options yet, so we'll keep trying... I just put her on Craigslist this morning: (this link will die after 45 days) http://minneapolis.craigslist.org/pet/715772377.html
Truck
I have to start trying to sell the truck. It should be pretty easy to sell a tanker truck that costs $168 to fill up the 42 gallon tank, but hey, you get more than 600 miles on one tank - that's 5 fill-ups per oil change. And you have to swipe your Visa card four times to get the tank full, which is very fun! All for about $4500 obo (which is less than Blue Book). It has less than 100k miles, albeit not much less (99,400 to be exact). This is on Criagslist here today.
Roof
The roof was still leaking as of yesterday. Big frown. About 3 tubes of silicone and I still haven't sealed the right spot. I will run home today to see if it leaked with the overnight rain. If it didn't work, it's time to call a professional (or start ripping apart siding, shingles, and flashing). This leak could be in a much worse spot - I feel blessed that it isn't on an inside location doing damage. I am very glad that it is where it is.
Paying Signing Bonus Back
I knew this was coming, but I was hoping that it wouldn't. I signed a contract when I got hired in October '07 whereby I agreed to pay back a signing bonus if I left within one year. The letter came in the mail today. They want their money. I wonder if they come knocking on my door in Haiti... Just kidding. I signed the contract - I'll pay it back.
I ask for your prayers in these matters. Not necessarily that these items would sell fast or for an awesome price (which would be great), but rather that in our trust of God for the whole process of moving to Haiti, He would be made much of. I truly want everything that I do to point to the fact that it is God in whom I trust - not craigslist, not bank statements, not convenience. He is my treasure and I would love to show/tell how wonderful life is when God is your hope. This is what life is all about.
Nomads
We are officially Nomads. We are staying at my gracious parent's place until we leave on the 30th. Until things settle down a little bit, I probably won't be posting much. We'll be getting settled and continuing to pack and clean up our old place.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Buddy Greene - One of My Favorites
This requires speakers to enjoy. We have been listening to Buddy Greene for almost 20 years. This guy has been blessed to use the harmonica! Tonight we just did a little praising as a family using our only stereo equipment left - the laptop. Enjoy!!
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
BHM Summer Camps
On Saturday, May 31, we received an email from Chris at BHM asking us if we wanted to help out at their two summer camps that run from July 21 - August 2. We will be supporting the camps. We will help setup games, sound, sport field, make questions for interaction, make sure we have water, talk to campers about their personal walk with Jesus, etc.
The camp will be mostly run by Haitian leaders and they will focus on salvation and personal testimonies for evangelism.
It should be a great opportunity to get to know some of their Haitian youth leaders and pastor's children. It will be at BHM's beach property about two hours away from the Mission and a half-hour before Saint Marc (Saint Marc is at 19°06'32.10"N, 72°42'10.56"W for you Google Earth people - which I highly recommend downloading!). We were told that it is hot, but the ocean is nice with a nice reef. Kayla and Carter will come with us and we will be staying in a large house near the camp with Chris's family.
Both Tina and I are excited to start helping out!
From the Kaliko Beach Club
The camp will be mostly run by Haitian leaders and they will focus on salvation and personal testimonies for evangelism.
It should be a great opportunity to get to know some of their Haitian youth leaders and pastor's children. It will be at BHM's beach property about two hours away from the Mission and a half-hour before Saint Marc (Saint Marc is at 19°06'32.10"N, 72°42'10.56"W for you Google Earth people - which I highly recommend downloading!). We were told that it is hot, but the ocean is nice with a nice reef. Kayla and Carter will come with us and we will be staying in a large house near the camp with Chris's family.
Both Tina and I are excited to start helping out!
From the Kaliko Beach Club
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