Olives, Grapes, and Cork

The Algarve!! Last week we had our 3 day mid term retreat to relax and re focus. As I mentioned in my last blog we felt like God was closing the doors to go down to North Africa a few hours before we were to leave. I went through a wurl wind of emotions. I was disappointed, frustrated, relieved, and confused. Going back to a m-sl-m country was something I felt I needed to do, even though I new it would be hard, and exhausting, physically, spiritually, and emotionally. I know God called me to be the leader of this team, and so I wanted to be obedient, and I had come to a place where I was ready to face the challenge of going into North Africa again. And then it was taken away. To some extent I felt like I had failed. Maybe I wasn’t ready! But over the past few days God has given me a lot of affirmation, and peace about not going. He’s also reminded me of the story of Abraham when he asks him to sacrifice Isaac. Abraham comes to the point where he is about to kill his son, when God closes the door, and provides another way.

Now my team and I are back in Lisbon. We spent an extra day in the Algarve to see the fish market and experience some good Portuguese food, and coffee. We are continuing to work with the churches we painted a few weeks ago, continuing to re organize and decorate.

Saturday we had the chance to go to an African wedding. We jumped at the opportunity. Weddings and funerals are some of the best events to go to, to experience tradition and culture. As we arrived we became the honored guests and received front row seats. The wedding started with the entrance of the groom and then the bride. There was lively music, and the groom and then the bride were both lead up the isle with a procession of people in front of them dancing. The wedding continued and took the format of a church service, with singing, dancing, and cheering. It was very celebratory.

Pray for our team as we finish our time in Portugal. Pray that we would finish strong. Giving our best, and taking every opportunity to be lead by the Spirit, and bless others.