Memories...

Someone was dialoguing with me yesterday via email, as they would like our team to come and speak about our trip at their church. It got me thinking about Sri Lanka and all the memories which are stored away. Someone said to one of my kids on Sunday, that mommy will never be the same again...she went away on missions and now her head is full of memories and experiences. That's probably the best way I've heard it explained...you never think the same again, or at least I know I won't.


A side note...
On Sunday, our kids learned about missions in Sunday school and that it doesn't matter what age you are...you are never too young or old to answer God's call to missions. At the end, when things were over and we were closing in prayer, the kids were asked if any of them had felt that call to missions already at this young age. Some raised their hands and we prayed with them.

Little Mister, our youngest boy and middle child, raised his hand. The coolest thing for me was that I was down there to see that. I think as a parent that gives way to huge responsibility, in not only knowing the call he feels, but supporting him in it and allowing every opportunity possible to allow God to fulfill this in Him.

I wasn't surprised, but instead, received strong confirmation in what I already knew. When asked what he wants to do when he grows up, Little Mister's answer is this...

"I want to build churches, help people to meet Jesus and learn more about Him."

Anyhow, back to the straight and narrow on where this post was originally going...

So I thought I would post a couple of pictures to bring my memories alive. This first picture is of all my little 'rainbows'. I was affectionately named 'Auntie' and was blessed with love every moment I was fortunate to spend with them. They were full of energy, smiles, love for each other and those around them and just a huge love of life in general. I think they kept a piece of my heart with them forever and I know I brought a piece of their love back with me forever as well.

The other thing we brought back a lot of pictures of was the amazing terrain and beautiful scenery. Sri Lanka is such a beautiful country...it's so fresh and tranquil. This picture is of one of the places we stayed for a few days when first in Sri Lanka. This was right beside our little cabin and became a daily point on my morning walk. It was an awesome way to start the day off...simply walking through God's beauty and experiencing His peace in a brand new light.

"The Father sets those dates," he replied, "and they are not for you to know. But when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, you will receive power and will tell people about me everywhere--in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

Acts 1:7-8