Wednesday, January 11, 2006

Who needs sleep anyway?

Yes, it's 2:45 am here in Moldova, and no, I am not going to bed tonight. Several of us have decided not to go to bed, rather than get 3-4 hours of sleep. Hopefully that will help me sleep on the plane. So what better way to kill time in the wee hours of the morning than blog?! Today capped off such an amazing trip. We handed out stockings to the kids, and we had tons of things left over. It was like the feeding of the 5,000. The gifts just kept multiplying. We left the orphanage and headed to the new transitional living houses. It was my first time to see both houses after being officially purchased by CERI and Sweet Sleep. So that was cool. The snow is still everywhere...it's so beautiful. I can't wait to show you pictures. I'm getting the hang of this "walking on ice" thing. Next, we headed to a frozen lake...yes FROZEN, where Tripp baptized Brian. Men were literally ice fishing on the other side of the lake and walking on the ice. You can read Tripp's blog for a more detailed description. I was so amazed by the dedication of these two men. Brian was literally in shorts in 20 degree weather. We went back to the team house for a nice hot lunch - complete with warm potato soup. After a quick trip to the market, we headed back to the orphanage for our final hours.

I can't really explain how amazing this trip has been. This summer I fell in love with the kids, and became so passionate about them and about Moldova. This trip is a little different. Yes, I am coming home passionate about the kids again. They are wonderful. But more than that, I'm coming home passionate about Jesus and how much He loves us and what he has done for us. God has used this trip to quietly minister to my soul and recharge my relationship with Him. I came here to minister to kids, but I realize that God brought me halfway across the world to speak to me. Maybe that was the only way He could get me to hear him. Our team has been wonderful, and I have enjoyed getting to know each and every person. Thank all of you for your thoughts and prayers. Thank you to my prayer partners...your notes have been so uplifting and I'm so appreciative. Please pray for safe travels tomorrow...actually in just a couple of hours.

Ok, I'm about to go get ready...it's time to "get up" now. Mom and Dad, I'll see you later today!

"He restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake." -Psalm 23:3

3 comments:

  1. emily? staying up all night? You must have not tried to watch a movie. ;oP
    I pray for you all even now as you are probably in the air somewhere. We'll see you soon.

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  2. Anonymous9:56 AM

    We are so happy to have you back! Can't wait to hear all about your trip. Safe travels!

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  3. I CANNOT wait for you to get home! We're going to be fighting over who gets to see you first!

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