There are a series of quotes from books I read that I have collected over the last 8 years. I look back on them from time to time...

The Will of God is always a bigger thing than we bargain for, but we must believe that whatever it involves, it is good, acceptable, and perfect.

Jim Elliot wrote in a letter to his parents- from Shadow of the Almighty.

He wants to transform every form of human suffering into something glorious. He can redeem it. He can bring life out of death. Every event of our lives provides opportunity to learn the deepest lesson anyone can learn on earth, "My present life is not that of the old 'I', but the living Christ within me. When our souls lie barren in a winter which seems hopeless and endless, God has not abandoned us. His work goes on, He asks our acceptance of the painful process and our trust that He will indeed give resurrection life.

Path Through Suffering, E. Elliot

We're back!  Thanks to all who came out to welcome us home, and for 2 in the afternoon, we're so thankful that everyone could make it out.

There's much to share about the trip, and since I know that long entries make for annoyed xanga readers, I've decided to share only a few things at a time over the next few weeks.

Our team...

It was really fun to serve together, and as you look here it was so neat to have so many of us there at the same time! It was a very special time of ministry. And Faith Bible- we miss you guys!

Dale & Joan...

For those of you who wanted an update on "Goldeneye", it is now up and running, it served us quite well. Dale & Joan were so wonderful, they served all 18 of us breakfast every morning, opened their home for all kinds of things: one to ones, meals, sleeping, working, bible study, playing games, doing our laundry and more. Of course they're not going to tell you about how they served on their xanga site, so I can say on mine. I know I can speak for the entire team, we were so encouraged by them. It was so fun to be able to hear them speak in Czech, they have picked up quite a bit of the language already- keep praying people, God is hearing our prayers for them. They are also both involved in personally following up with believers and unbelievers who would like to read the Bible together. Dale's already there helping with worship during the services in Czech and English (with Max and Karel's help of course). It's amazing how our Lord brings believers together for ministry. It looks like they will be able to put their professional skills to use over there for many administrative purposes too! God is so wise. And they will be starting English classes in September. Please pray for them this week as they work with Peter and Sonya in planning for this next year. WE MISS YOU GUYS!

Peter & Sonya...

Of course they are doing well! We were all so encouraged by them, in so many little ways. They definitely challenge everyone by their servant leadership. Whether it's Peter jumping on the trash at 5:30am at camp, or Sonya making the teams get dirty laundry for her so she can wash them, they don't miss a step. For all of us who have spent any time with them, missions or not, we always leave our interaction with something to be encouraged with. Thanks Smithovis!

Pastor James and Serin (and family)...

Another factor that made this year special was that our very own Pastor and family came on the trip. For those of us who have ministered with them for a long time, we already know how equipped both of them are. James gave some INTENSE messages and God really used that in the hearts of the campers. But it was just really fun to be able to spend long periods of time talking and laughing together, a real joy. This picture is when the Shinovis taught the "Korean" workshop at camp. The two of them will tell you that it should have more appropriately been titled, "The James and Serin Comedy Hour". They were a hit! On a more serious note, I was so encouraged by how both of them served, James was right there with the men as they used their God-given strength to carry things and move things and clean things and Serin was always wanting to help out in the kitchen, clean, and teach and half the time it was with Emma in her hands! Cornerstone is very blessed!

Truly it was a privilege to serve alongside the Shimovis, Smithovis and the Shinovis. My team was also great to work with, I'll share more about them later! Thanks so much for all your support, and please continue to lift up prayers for the ministry in CZ.

(Eugene Kim, I got my pictures smaller, you don't have to hate anymore!)