Home Sweet Home

So that everybody can breathe a sigh of relief, we have made it safe and sound to the Emmanuel Children’s Home in Juarez, Mexico. And, wow, it feels good to be home!
In many ways, it’s been a day of firsts.
For Nate, today was the first time flying on an airplane! (Congrats, Nate, you are a trooper!)
For Kristen, Hannah, Scotti and myself, a first of nearly missing our flight. (Think Jim Carey in Dumb and Dumber, that’s about how fast we were sprinting to our next terminal.)
First time for some having to wake up at 3:30 in the morning, intentionally….
For others, the first time eating at fast-food giant of the South, Whattaburger. Delicious….
And for others, the first time crossing the border, and the first time definitely in Juarez!
While a day of first in many respects, some things never change.
Like the sound of kids laughing and being kids on the playground.
Like the feel of kids running up to you and embracing you–as if saying “thank you for coming to visit us.”
Like the back pain associated with constant piggy-back rides.
Like the smiles that light up this dark city.
I am writing this blog from the “Visitor Center”–an area attached to the home and our refuge for hanging out, devotions, and worship throughout the week. And the sight I see brings tears to my eyes. We’ve been here but one hour, and it’s as if our team been here for days or weeks. I see soccer and fingernail painting and hugs and smiles and laughter and joy!
This place and these kids and the joy on their faces…..It’s contagious! Home, sweet, home….
Thanks for all the prayers! The peace in crossing the border was overwhelming, so thank you. More to come…..