Day 1 - June 29, 2010

I am on the plane to London. We will be there for 12 hours ad then to Zambia. 10 hours to London and 10 hours to Lusaka. Lots of reading and movie time, which will be nice.

I started the day off today with anxiety but a peace has since come over me. I can't help but think it's because of all of my friends and family that are praying for me. I just opened a gift that my parents gave me. Sealed and labeled not to open it until I was in the air... only took me 30 minutes to open it :) ! It was a little booklet of note cards that are laminated with scripture. Kerry wrote down words of encouragement and scripture to help me while I am this mission trip. How thoughtful and sweet! There were also cards from my dad and Kerry had written me and of course tears streamed down as I read how much they love me and are proud of me. I am so grateful to have such strong Christian parents that have supported me on this journey. Blessed. After that, I open up the "Day 1" letter from my community group. When I met with my group on Sunday for our weekly Bible study, they presented me with letters - one to read each day I was there. They each took the time to pick days and write me a letter. The first one was from Amy. Awesome words of encouragement and reminders. I can not wait to see what the other letters say. One things that she said is not to become weary, tired, or frustrated because Satan is going to try and attack me. Crazy as it sounds, I haven't even thought of this. It's good to be reminded of ways the devil tried to bring us down so that we can recognize it and choose not to let Satan get in the way.

I think the thing I am looking forward to the most is meeting the little girl I am sponsoring, Marles. I have brought bubbles and other gifts, like a sweater to give to her. I hope we will have time to play and get to know each other.

Prayers: For a safe trip, able to sleep, a good flight and lay-over. I pray that God opens my heart and I am able to love everyone that I meet as he loves them. I pray that I can distinguish what each person I come in contacts needs, whether it's a hug, words of encouragement, or just to listen. I pray that I change lives, expand the Kingdom and that I am never the same.