Friday, May 5, 2023

Plans and Plans and God's Good Grace


 

And we're off!

Not getting on the plane yet....just catching that wave now of planning, planning, planning.

After the 'travel drought' brought on by the pandemic, it does indeed feel rather 'abundant' for me to have three trips in the works.  Yes, three.  As Missionary in Residence I most certainly have my work cut out for me!

July 

Ken and I will celebrate 45 years of partnership on August 19.  This trip will just be the two of us, and will mark a stage in our lives together that very much centres around all that is the goodness of our Thai family.  We are doubly blessed.  Our "DNA" family is close at hand, and we enjoy the happy presence of all five of our grandchildren in our lives on a regular basis.  The Thai part of our family is quite literally as far away as possible, making our visits with them that much more cherished.  Especially for Ken who normally cares for things at home while I'm gone.  Even though this trip will just involve two people, Ken and myself, there's still a lot to get ready for in terms of sermons, Bible Lessons, ESL and gathering up the packets from Sponsors.  

October

Suradet, Yupa and Bell will come this way.  We are inching closer to purchasing the tickets.  That's when any trip feels 'confirmed' to me, so I'm hoping that can happen in the next week or so.  Meanwhile, plans for their time here are shaping up.  It will include a fun night of music and dessert with a mini 'Thai market' all towards raising funds for New Family Foundation.  Yes, lots of plans underway for this as well.  (And if you'd be interested in contributing to the cost of their ride here, your donation would be most appreciated.  Email me at rabreithaupt@hcckw.ca.

November

Had a first meeting last night with potential Team Members for a trip to Hot Springs in November.  Oh the logistics of gathering seven for such an undertaking.  LOVED the energy and curiosity of everyone at the meeting, and the excitement of those who've been before.  Again, plans are coming together.

For how far out all that sounds, I am reminded again of our dependence on God's loving direction in all our planning. 

"In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps."  Proverbs 16:9

And that's exactly how we prayed last night, and how we're approaching all of these trips.  With diligence and surrender both.

Looking forward to reporting on all of these adventures.  

Grateful for all of you who 'go with' me, even when your stay put.