Reflections a Week Later

Hi Everyone

It is hard to believe that we've been home for over a week. So soon the routine of everyday business and life settles back in and that's okay! Many of us experienced a deep tiredness upon our return home and I heard, "All I wanted to do was sleep" over and over. It's good to wonder why we are so tired. Is it from the work? Is it from the experience? Is it from the travelling? Is it because there is so much to process?

Karl and I returned home also deeply tired....but not a tiredness of being exhausted from work or lack of sleep. It was a peaceful tiredness, one that produced very deep and restful sleeps at night, one that allowed us to stay in the moment and rest with God. It was a satisfying tiredness that let one sit longer, think more, contemplate God and his eternal peace, and understand that our God is so much bigger than we ever have realized. Its a peace that lets one realize that our striving and pushing, and fondness of appearance and other idols in our lives has nothing to do with what God calls us to be in this world. It was God's peace.

For four of us, this is our second time in Guatemala. There was a sense of 'coming home' when we turned into the driveway at Camp Shalom. Walking into the house, seeing Timo and Mary-Lou and even the dogs...we know we've been here before and it feels good. The surprise of seeing the school almost completed was pure joy. Seeing the children and teachers enjoying the classrooms and space the next day was a highlight. Seeing the purpose of Worldwide Christian Schools being fulfilled was amazing.....vision and mission put into action. This is what we were here for!

Going on a short-term missions and being a part of a TEAM is part of the experience...in fact, I would dare say it is a huge part of the experience. You get to spend almost 24 hours a day together - scary for some! You eat together, live together, travel together, do devotions and share together. You share living space and bathrooms, play games together and soon there are very few secrets! :) You talk together, work together, and in reality are a 'small group' - first during the preparation stage but more so during the 10 days you are on site. This experience could be intimidating for some. But in my time as leader for three different groups I can honestly say this IS the best part of the whole experience. Building relationships within the group and getting to know these people becomes an important part of the group experience. I thank all of our team members for their realness and honesty, for their work, for their sharing, for their love and support over the past year. All of you played an important part in team-building and did your jobs with love and enthusiasm. This is a true team - a true community of God.

I have talked to many people in our church community about going on a short-term missions trip with Worldwide Christian Schools and so many have said, "We'd love to do this....sometime". "We think this is a great thing - let us know when you go again", only to approach them later and they have changed their mind. "We'd like to go but the timing is not good right now". "We'd love to join the team but......." Fill in any reason you'd like. What REALLY stops people from joining a team like the one we were just on? ?? What prevents people from just stepping "out of the boat" and taking a leap of faith? If you are one of those that has talked about wanting be be on a HANDS Team but hesitates, ask yourself, "WHY"? "What's going on right now that makes me hesitate to commit?" For most of us, it would come down to fear.

If you have ever found yourself inspired or interested to be on a team to build a Christian School, don't be afraid. Talk to someone who has just returned and see their joy and enthusiasm. Listen carefully to what they say and how they are full of excitement. And, a year from now, when the call comes to join a HANDS Team, come to the initial meeting and find out what it means to be a part of something big!

I am passionate about Worldwide Christian Schools - their mission and vision to provide Christ-centered education for the children of this world. Being involved as a volunteer has had much impact on my life. Getting to really know the people behind the scenes has been a privelege for me. Michele handles all the teams and all the logistics that goes into putting a team together. She is the one I work with most closely and is a gift to Worldwide. Working with Michele has been a huge learning experience for more and I love her. Hank is the Exectutive Director in Canada. I am learning to appreciate his humour and see his love of Christ everywhere. He is a calming influence in the office and takes his role very seriously. Carolyn's office is right next to me and I am sad to say that she is leaving soon for a new role - running a flower shop! Carolyn is kind, soft, wise and I so much appreciate her thoughts as we've talked about many different things, including our love for Bibical counselling courses. Laura-Jane is the person who answers the phone, who you'd meet if you visit and is so sweet. She's busy with the money end of things and answering the phones. Drop by the office sometime and get to meet her first.

Being a part of Worldwide Christian Schools and leader of HANDS Teams has opened my heart and given me a huge appreciation for God and His world. Being able to be a small part of God's 'divine design' - His plan for us and for His world - has shaped who I am and how I see life. I am thankful that I have been able to participate in these small ways to bring the Good News of the gospel to the children of the world. Please pray for WWCS and all the little children who will hear about the saving love of Jesus this school year. Blessings....