Random Thoughts by Meaghan Howard

We have now been here for almost 6 months. We have been learning many lessons along this journey; lessons pertaining to language and culture, spiritual lessons, life lessons, and even marital lessons... I can definitely say, I [Meaghan] have also learned some lessons about myself.

Some Cultural Lessons: It has been a scorching month here in Bavaria; temps reaching 95 degrees this week...no air conditioning...hot sun, and we live in place that doesn't believe in ice or deoderant. Recreation is very important to the Germans, and we now understand why...it is difficult to think when it is so hot, thus swimming is a great past-time that relieves the lack of ice and deoderant. This week we spent some time reconnecting as a family. We took many long walks, shared our hearts, and went swimming a couple of times.

Some Spiritual Lessons: Don't you think, that when you do ministry your weaknesses become much clearer, well I do. Its this transparency of yourself that reveals your heart, your motives, even your weaknesses...and the funny thing is ministry really has nothing to do with you and everything to do with God's plans and purposes. I tend to struggle with always looking ahead, whether looking to a visit from family or an event. God is showing me how to engage everyday, where I am; I don't want to miss out on any of His purposes here at Hohenfels. God is really allowing Chris to connect with the guy teens; two of them have specifically asked Chris to do a Bible Study with them and let them ask questions about all of this "God-stuff". We see where it is important to reconnect and stay grounded to what God has asked of us. "Go and make disciples of all nations..."(Mt 28:19)

Marital Lessons: As we spent some time with The Gammels' (some friends of ours in the ministry), I was reminded of the joy it is do ministry with my best friend-the person with whom I want to spend most of my time. It's a joy to be in this journey alongside Chris as become a better husband, a great Daddy, and growing in the likeness of our Lord, Jesus Christ as he ministers to those around us. God really know what He is doing when He purposes for two people to come together. "...then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose"(Phil. 2:2)

Personal Lessons: I have learned the importance of Listening with Love...to my husband, my family, those around me. It is one thing to listen to people and their needs, but to listen and love as Jesus loved, without condemnation. "The greatest thing is to love". (I Corith. 13:13)