New Year's Eve

I'm typing from the Minneapolis airport awaiting my flight home from a wonderful time at INK '08. I feel so honored to have spent the last three days with exceptional men and women from around the world. Mostly graduate and doctoral students, these dear souls are so gifted in mind and yet so beautifully humble and hungry in heart. Thank you all for receiving me so warmly.

The days were filled with rich teaching from new friends, worship from many nations, laughter from deep within, and prayer for the world. The only awkward moment for me personally was looking up from the stage after I finished my first session and realizing that the retreat center had chosen to decorate their walls with an assortment of dead animal heads topped off (no pun intended) by a 6' stuffed brown bear at the entrance. Let's just say that I didn't grow up in a hunting family...

This INK conference has bookended 2008 for me. I spent December 31st, 2007 with them worshiping and praying as 2008 began and today I spent December 31st, 2008 with them as 2008 concludes. It's perspective-inducing, to hear their hearts for their countries, realize the enormous pressure and challenges they face, to see their faith in action, to receive their generous love.

So with God's enormous love for all nations fresh in my heart, I'm heading home to be with my tribe: my mom, my amazing husband, and my precious children. I'll arrive before 2009 begins and en route I've been overwhelmed by God's goodness throughout this year. Tonight, Lord willing as I land safely in Missouri, I will hug my Mom who is waiting for me already at the airport. Tonight I will relax in Bear's arms when he greets me at home. Tonight I will kiss my beloved children and watch them while they sleep. And tonight I will thank my God for his gracious hand in our lives.