A Good Run

The boys are inside the church washing some clothes. Today is there last full day with me, as their summer is coming to an end. They'll fly home tomorrow evening out of Indianapolis and return to school on Tuesday. I'm going to miss them badly. I miss Kim so much and I know it probably wasn't as enjoyable she may have first imagined... having the house to herself, no messes, no arguments to settle among the boys, etc. Just peace and quiet, and some time for herself. Now that the boys are going to be back home, I'll need to get a few flights back to Orlando during the week, and work my way back home with the RV while working the weekends.

All in all, it has been a very rewarding summer for us! The boys have seen a side of ministry and God's work they had never seen before. If we aren't careful, we'll convince ourselves the rest of the world (and church) is just like it is in our neat little box. This is simply not the truth. We've been places where it is a real struggle for those in leadership just to "have church". I hope we've been a blessing and an encouragement to those congregations. Then there were places where the technology was up-to-date, the pews were filled to capacity, and everything was put together so professionally. And to God be the glory! All of this brings things into perspective for me. On this journey to find my place in God's kingdom, there are a few things I must consider:

- To be where I'm wanted, needed, valued, and appreciated. (Don't we all?)
- Have a maximum impact in making a difference in the lives of many.
- Find stability for my family in our schedules and time spent together.
- Be where we are allowed to participate in ministry as a family.
- Allow God to use us in the kingdom without strings attached, or limitations.
- Above all, make sure my family is saved.

In the spirit of the olympics (which we've been watching lately at night), I do want to run a good race. I want to run the race with my family. I want to run with my friends. I want to be a finisher. My eyes are on the prize, and I want to hear Him say well done.