Excited

So much to write about, but somehow the words just aren't coming... In 48 hours we will be flying over the Atlantic on our way to Germany. Packing is done - and it went well. I could almost say it was even enjoyable. Having all our stuff stacked in labeled, catalogued boxes really satisfies something obsessive inside of me. Christmas is over - sweet, wonderful times with both sides of the family. Great talks and fun memories. Many sad goodbyes already said  - and some more hard ones coming in the next two days. We had our last day at church today, and God ministered such peace and comfort to our nervous little hearts. And the hundreds of people who promised their prayers and rejoiced with us in our excitement today! Excited. That was the word of the day. And Ready.  "Are you Excited?"  "Are you Ready?"  Yes and yes...well, sometimes no and no. It's impossible to pin down our feelings into just a word or two these days.

What precious wisdom I took home from so many who gave their last minute advice tonight. One exhorted me to find all the scripture passages related to the office of the elder/deacon and pray through them for Daniel as we go through this transition together. Now that should get my focus off myself!
Another: "Just have fun and enjoy it!  See it as a special adventure God has given you!" If I don't relax and look around, I might just miss the good gifts God has prepared for us.
And another: "God is going to take good care of you. He already knows how all your unknowns are going to work out. Moving to Germany is just a continuation of the poem of your life that's already been written by God."  I really liked that.

Nearly everything about life is about to change in two days. I am quite certain this will be the largest transition of our lives. But I do know that one thing is never going to change - and that is my God. And He is coming with us!

Psalm 46:1-3

God is our refuge and strength,

a very present help in trouble. 

Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,

though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, 

though its waters roar and foam,

though the mountains tremble at its swelling. 

10, 11 Be still, and know that I am God. 
I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!

The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Joshua 1:9

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. 

Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, 

for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.

We depart Tuesday evening at 8pm from Greenville, and three flights later we arrive in Nuremburg at 2:30pm Wed. Here's hoping that the kids will sleep on the plane. Anybody got any good tricks?