BVI

What another messy day!  Even on rainy days like this I am always reminded that GOD is ‘reigning’ above and pray HE would continue to ‘pour’ HIS blessing and goodness no matter what!  I went to a book launch/luncheon for my dear friend, mentor, Bible Study teacher and now author of  “After The Storm”.  Jan has a powerful story and I pray that you will pick up her book at your nearest bookstore and soak in God’s goodness even during the messy storms of your life. (p.s. that is an umbrella cookie that was delicious!)

Over Easter break, my husband and I had the privilege of taking 10 teenagers, nine of them being Seniors, on a sailing trip to the BVIs.  There was another group of boys and parents on a separate boat totaling our group to 23.

It was a trip of a lifetime especially having all of us unplug from our busy schedules, the pressures of high school and the journey of what lies ahead.  Luckily, there were no storms during our trip. Basking in the warm sunshine, turquoise waters, sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, it was a trip that ministered to our souls in so many ways.

Our days could not have been more glorious and one of my favorite memories from the trip was waking up Easter morning before dawn, sitting on the fly bridge of the boat and just waiting.  Waiting in anticipation of a beautiful sunrise and at the same time thanking our GOD who loves us so much that he gave His only son - that whoever believes will have eternal life - watching the sun rise that day, knowing that HIS SON rose that third day…Glory!

I got to know these teenagers, their tender hearts, their incredible, confident spirits, and was so blessed by their laughter and joy during the entire trip.

 One morning  while anchored in a beautiful cove, I told these amazing kids that they are getting ready for another journey in life…College…and that there will be many rewards and some challenges that will come their way.  We talked about the fact that IF the boat was not anchored, it would drift off and no telling what would happen…hit a reef, drift off to sea, crash?   Much like life…we need an ‘anchor’ to keep us from drifting…crashing…That anchor is a faith in GOD who loves us no matter what…whatever comes our way, we know that we will be able to weather the storm if we anchor our faith in Jesus.

Our captain, Jerome Joseph, went beyond his normal duties to act as our captain and keep us safe for those nine days on a boat…He would take us on incredible hikes throughout the islands, show us beautiful quiet beaches and even cooked us several meals which were delicious!

The kids got to have their fun but in a wonderful safe environment…I think this will be a trip that we will never forget!

/> Congratulations Seniors 2015…You are all amazing young adults and I know that God has big plans for your lives…Be true to who you are…stay close to GOD always…Know that you are loved by God above…Oh the places you will go in life…