Zambia Or Bust!

We arose Thursday a.m. about 5:30 and utilized every minute until the time we left. Last minute packing, phone calls, and paperwork kept us hopping until our good friends, the Hiltys, arrived to take us to the airport. God gave us a sweet time together as we drove in to O’Hare. Chester encouraged us to feast upon II Thessalonians 1:5— “. . . that you may be considered worthy of the kingdom of God for which you are also suffering.” When we got to the international terminal, Adam was already there. After loading our totes and baggage onto carts we tearfully said our goodbyes to friends we have known for over 30 years.



Keith and Audrey arrived while we were getting in line. With the exception of an overweight tote (by 2.5 lbs) everything went smoothly at check-in. Taking out Calvin’s Institutes met our weight allowance. Did you know his two-volume set weighs ten pounds? (Keith later stuffed them into our carry-on bags. That’s sneaky Keith for you!) Unbeknownst to us, our friend, Brad, was returning from Minneapolis about the same time. After reading our updates he decided to meet us to say goodbye. What a God-thing! Brad not only encouraged us, but, prayed for us as well as a family.

As you can imagine, saying goodbye to our children was tearful. Their final words were a favorite phrase from “Princess Bride”—“Have fun storming the castle!” We waved to each until we disappeared into the security line. “God, be a father to our children. Comfort them and keep them in Your care and love. You love them more than we do. Fulfill your promise that you will give them mothers and fathers (and grandparents) . . . Amen."