We're Here/Intentional Time/His Grace

- So we've made it - we're in Virginia...and a whole lot more than just the timezone is different!
We're overwhelmed to say the least.  Overwhelmed in the best possible way.  Our days are jam packed with invaluable teaching sessions from some pretty amazing servants of the Lord.  Anytime we're not in class we're busy trying to balance -  family time/hanging out with people we'll be near on the field/ministry teams/homework assignments/probably some other things I'm currently forgetting - !!  From about 8 - 3 every day Ryleigh is in class/nursery with 4 precious ladies.  She is adapting so well to all the changes going on around her (thank you for all the prayers!!)  I'm handling it all pretty well because she's happy being in the nursery AND she still gives me a smile when I come in.  I couldn't ask for a better reaction! 

Here's Ryleigh on her way to class Tuesday morning

One of the greatest things so far - is that everyone here is on the same page.  We're all about to leave our friends and family for a long term assignment overseas.  The leaders here have all been in our shoes at some point and time too.  While there is PLENTY to cover about life and ministry overseas - it has been made quite clear that NOTHING is more important than our time spent with the Lord.  Today, we studied Mark 3:14, "He appointed twelve, that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach..."  Did you catch the 1st thing mentioned for why Jesus appointed them?  "that they might BE with Him"...could it get any better?  That the reason the Lord appoints us is first and foremost to be with Him.  This particular Bible study could not have come at a more providental time in my life.  I've found myself living my life around Ryleigh's schedule.  Don't get me wrong, I love her...so very very much - however, when I allow her schedule to conflict with spending my time with the Lord then I am no good to anyone!  The past 2 days my heart has been burdened with being purposeful about my walk with the Lord.  I desire to spend intentional personal time with Him.  Only through that relationship, am I able to function correctly!  What peace flooded my heart today when reading that verse.  First and foremost, I am called to simply be with the Lord - to rest in Him, to learn from Him, to strive to be like Him.  I am called to share the good news.  I am called to be a wife.  I am called to be a mother.  I am called to do good works for His glory.  BUT - 1st - I am called to be a daughter of the King of Kings.  Praise Him for His grace and forgiveness of all the times that I fall short.  I'm finding myself thankful for His mercy and His 2nd (3rd,4th,5th...)chances to follow Him on this journey.