Giving Up

We are in the middle of Lent right now.  I didn't grow up observing or even knowing much about Lent but we (mildly) observe it here in our home.  We talk about the why and the what and honestly my kids are doing better with sticking to it than I am this year.  Although, my dear Owen came home from school sad the other day because he forgot about his Lenten sacrifice (giving up candy) and had eaten a piece at school. ;-)

My Lenten give up was giving up.  

No, not giving up going to Zambia but rather give up my agenda concerning Zambia.  And, actually, giving up my agenda in all aspects of my life.  

Control is such an illusion.  So God very graciously keeps showing me how I need to keep loosening my grip. On my kids, my thoughts, my days, my timeline... just give up, already!

I'm working on it. Or rather- God's working on me.

This past week we had a Howells family tour- so to speak. 4 different events for our fundraising efforts.  We first had the neat opportunity to share this journey with the Place To Be group at our church.  This is a college and career group and what an amazing group it was!  I think in the group of 20 about 5 of them were talking to us about their own mission trips they were currently pursuing! They were such an encouragement to us and we loved spending the evening with them. 

Next we had a pancake breakfast and silent auction held at our school gym.  What a humbling event to see all who came to eat, to make, to clean, to bid, to organize and to just generally show their love and support.  I didn't know half of them!  (but the sausages were excellent! ;-) 

We had another neat opportunity to meet at a local church and give a quick summary of this ministry opportunity.  Again, meeting and talking with new people is such an enlarging-my-heart opportunity. It makes this journey seem real. (which believe there are times it seems like a dream!)

Our last
adventure was hosted by a BSF friend of Brads.  They actually dug holes in their yard to make a 6 hole round of golf! They invited their friends, neighbors, co workers and fellow bible study friends to come, hear our presentation, participate in a polar plunge (!), eat some hot dogs over their bonfire, toss a football and play some golf.  What a very fun, delightfully muddy and creative event! 

Looking at all this I am once again just overwhelmed by what gracious, generous people God has placed in our lives.  Pridefully I think "why would they want to do all this for me?!" but then God reminds me- it's not for ME, or US- it's for HIM.  All about Him. 

There are times I think "how can I EVER repay this kindness to them?!" But thankfully, God's riches and his rewards are SOOOO much better than any thing I'll ever find on Pinterest! 

We are BEYOND grateful for each one of you who has donated, wiped up syrup, watched our kids while we had an speaking engagement, dug in your yard, organized, made decorations and covered these events with your prayers.  I am humbled by you all and so thankful that God will be able to express his gratitude better than I ever could. 

Journey On!