Last night we hosted a church barbecue at our place. It was such a beautiful warm day where the pool was more than utilized. Such a mix of emotions as our house is near perfect due to prepping to sell. My garden has matured to where it is just lovely and yet there is a longing to be back in Mexico that overrides the material. When we bought our house we knew it was because the Lord had orchestrated it as the bank would not approve us for the cost of a house. We were introduced to a mortgage broker in our church at the time and he was able to more than double the amount the bank would support and that allowed us to purchase our home. We dedicated it to the Lord promising that it was His to be available for His work.
Seven years later a for sale sign in the front I am watching a gentle spirited woman be baptized in our pool surrounded by some very precious hearts so dear to me. It was almost too much for me to take in. A truly beautiful moment to share as this woman has suffered for so long with such grace and yet a complete surrender and adoration to the Lord that is convicting and awe inspiring.
Shortly after that then one by one people kept filing in to join in the barbecue that followed. So many surreal moments kids screaming with delight trying to make the biggest splash, (CJ always wins) people chatting and laughing with ease , eating food that make an Italian wedding look modest, all the while seeing precious friends maneuver in my kitchen as if it were their own while heartfelt worship serenaded it all.
I had been experiencing some doubt about Mexico wondering if it we made it up. Today was like a giant hug from God revealing His blessings to us and reminding us to trust Him. Many times during the day tears fell because of the love, the silent goodbyes, and the realization of His incredible and complete provision for us.
The day ended...sounds kind of hokey..with us all relaxing gazing at the stars followed by a prayer over our home, our church, and the work the Lord wants to accomplish with such sweet gratitude.

It has been an amazing time at Calvary Chapel Langley. We are so blessed to be able to sit under the solid teaching of our beloved Pastor and friend Brent. There is so much to be thankful for. Thankful to his serving example for his commitment to the Word of God that has changed us immeasurably and introduced us to a relationship with theloving merciful compassionate Jesus. Thank you Lord for directing our steps that lead us here.

As well brought us a supportive church family full of love, humor, wisdom, patience and just enough nuttyiness for us to blend.

It is a very exciting time walking by faith to see where the Lord will lead us. In short Mexico broke our hearts and stole them at the same time. Each day was a revelation of the larger picture of how we participate in the redemption story alive today as we connect others to Him. What an honor and a blessing.

It is out of the fullness in our hearts by the work that He accomplished on the cross that we are compelled to consider the costs to follow Him. There is no other option.

We are incredibly blessed!