May has been a full month! We were graciously able to spend two weeks in the States celebrating a family wedding! Aubree's brother got married, and our family was able to spend precious time in the Upstate of South Carolina, resting and spending time with family. The days were long, the sun was warm, and time with our loved ones was familiar and wonderful. It was also a sweet time to reconnect with dear friends at our sending church!
This was our first time back in the States since we left last June. In so many ways it was easy to slot back in but also we knew the day was coming when we would have yet another goodbye. A dear friend, as she hugged me close, reminded me that one day in heaven there will be no more goodbyes! A mindset of eternity, worshipping Jesus together, was what she pointed my heart to in our final moments. As May comes to a close, we realize this life is full of goodbyes. The work before us beckons us to tell others of a future without goodbyes or tears- but one in a throne room filled with those who follow and love Jesus Christ as Lord.
But it hurts as we drive away from homes or ride escalators away from a tearful goodbye. Holding joy and grief- hellos and goodbyes is part of this journey.
Kris headed back to England ahead of the rest of our family for a football camp with our local church. Kris was joined by a team of 11 South Carolina BCM University students. We had over 30 children register and participate. Over 75% of them have no attachment to our church. They spent three hot days playing games, learning about Abraham and Isaac, and learning football skills. We saw three children want to "Join God's Team." This was such a joy to help give our community the hope of Jesus. We've had numerous people excited for the event next year- many people walked away with a positive experience with a church!
The team spent the next two days in parks going two by two praying with local peoples. The team was able to speak to around 20 people each day and have some short and some long conversations. Overall this team engaged around 60 people with the gospel over this last week of May. We are so thankful for the impact of short term teams. We have been able to connect with multiple national partners working here in Manchester and connect each person interested in spiritual things with our local church.
As May comes to an end we look back and are thankful for the prayers and support of family, friends, churches, teams to continue the work here in Manchester. We recognize the the work done here cannot be done with our the generous support of Southern Baptists through the Cooperative Program and Lottie Moon Christmas Offering. We covet your prayers as we pray to reach the every and all here in our city.
