We're Off

To Thailand, that is.  Ruthie and I leave tomorrow morning.  This has been a wonderful end to our time here in the States.  We had good time with Kevin and Ramona out in Los Angeles, as well as my brother--and many wonderful people in Covenant churches.  Yesterday and today were special as Ruthie and Erin worked together to put on two wonderful meals for family and friends here in Virginia.  

Pastor John Benson, from our little church here--Community Covenant in Burke VA--gave us a sendoff we won't forget.  These verses from I Thessalonians 2 were especially meaningful:  "You know, brothers, that our visit to you was not a failure.  We had previously suffered and been insulted...but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in spite of strong opposition... On the contrary, we speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel...We love you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well...

As we go back to Thailand Pastor Benson prayed that these words would be true of us--that we would be filled with the love of Christ to be able to share not only the gospel, but our lives as well.  Thank you, Pastor John!