Out of Africa

I returned late Wednesday night from a 12 day trip into Northern Africa.  Our purpose was to do humanitarian work while building bridges with people.  The trip was extremely successful!  I was personally stretched in many ways and once again discovered the importance of following Christ in all things, a loving wife and family, freedom of religion, the little things we take for granted, and friends who are truly committed to you.  

Just before leaving - one young couple in our church had me stop by their house to pick up a couple of things for the journey.  I was given several helpful items for the trip and something that I won't soon forget.  Adam gave me a small dog tag that he had carried while serving in Iraq as a US soldier.  On one side of the tag it read the following: "I will be strong and courageous, I will not be terrified or discouraged; for the Lord my God is with me wherever I go." Joshua 1:9

I carried it with me at all times and found myself pulling it out several times a day.  The picture above was taking at 6,500 feet up in the Atlas mountains at a villages water source.  You can see the stream of mountain water flowing just behind me.  

On the other side of the world - in a dark and sometimes dangerous place - I found new strength & hope in God's word.  Thank you Adam & Liz for sharing!