One of the best parts for me this year is that my wife Jackie was able to join me in Russia for the third of my fourteen trips here. She worked tirelessly with our hospitality team as they took care of both our staff and those who attended the conference.
And while there were times when we didn't see each other too much (my job involved teaching, training, etc.) we have memories and shared experiences that we will enjoy talking about for a long time.
You don't need to go to the other side of the world to have this experience. But you usually do need to plan to serve others or it probably won't happen. We're just too busy.
And the benefits? There are many but here are a few. First, you get to see God work in some ways beyond the usual. Most serving opportunities simply won't work well without God's hand in them to guide, direct and even surprise. God has a special knack for bringing just the right people together, too.
Second, you let God build a similar vision and passion in you. Jackie and I will both return home with many of the same names, observations and cultural experiences that will keep us having long discussions for many months. And God does something for your spiritual connection as a couple when you take a leap of faith into something new.
Third, we learn to trust God more together. It took a considerable sacrifice for her to go - time, money and the taxing of the body. But because we've seen God's provision before and during the trip, we trust Him even more with our lives. Add that to the many daily "God - moments" we had and you have a built in spiritual growth plan
So, look for an opportunity to serve somewhere. Start now. Begin planning. That's half the fun. But whatever you do don't let other things crowd out your service for Him. You will never be the same.
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