Welcome and Goodbye

This last week Chris and I attended MCYM Europe's Welcome/Goodbye Conference. We spent time, at the Sharon-Haus in Wildberg, Germany (3 hours from us) with missionary families from other Post's across Europe. It was amazing to come together as a big group. It really was like a family reunion. For some this was only the beginning of their time on the mission field, and for others this was the closure of this journey. The week consisted of several emotional Goodbyes and the joining together of new friendships. As a newcomer this year, it was a blessing to see firsthand the impact of those who were leaving.

This conference really taught me something about the Body of Christ and especially about UNITY. Within the church, I think we have forgotten the meaning of this word. There is such power when people come together and join forces. As the Body of Christ, we are in the business of loving and service people...all people...from fellow brothers and sisters to strangers and even our enemies. I don't think this is always and easy task, but it is what God requires of us. I believe one of the best ways we can show love to those in "the world" is to have a united body of believers. Why would non-Christians want to be apart of something that tears others down, rips apart families and divides communities. Christians need to show Christ love to the world in a REAL way. "From Him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work." (Ephesians 4:16) I believe unity touches on the very heart of our Father God.

We were blessed to have my (Meaghan's) Mom and Dad here to watch Hunter, as we went to the conference. Hunter had a great time with Oma and Bopa. He has become a talking machine and recorder...he repeats much of what we say, which can be funny or bad. God is using him to keep my speech in check. Hunter has grown accustom to having visitors with us all the time. As the summer slows down, please pray that he is not bored with only Mommy, day in and day out. It is exciting to watch him grow and develop into a growing boy.