BE OPEN!

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May 27, 2013
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Acts 20:24 NLT: “But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God”

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY! I believe our life’s work (and the core of our identity) is who we love. I was humbled today when I realized that God still brought people into my life when I wanted to quit. Around the middle of this tour I got sidetracked into just biding my time, but God wouldn’t allow it. He put people in front of me that wouldn’t let me quit. I think this was His final lesson in teaching me to be open. I thought because it was nearing the end of my tour that I was “done”. But now I know why His Word says to not get tired in well-doing because at the right time you will reap your harvest.

Translate that into our single’s walk with God…always try to look your best, do your best and be the best you. You never know who you will meet. And it happens quickly! So try to be your best you so you don’t get sidetracked with things God never wanted for you and the new person in your life. Here are some pictures of people I’ve connected with (both over long and short periods of time) during my time overseas, and what they’ve taught me.

2009 – 2012, Okinawa: The lady in the middle is Connie Turner. She’s one of my spiritual mothers. The way she poured into my life in the 3 years I was in Okinawa was amazing. The lesson I learned from her is that God responds to prayer, adoration and right living. The lady sitting next to her is Janice Howard, my adopted spiritual sister. The lesson I learned from her is that life is for LIVING!

2011/2012: I met Pat Beckles around the end of my tour in Okinawa. She helped pUt me at ease about coming to Djibouti. Don’t get me wrong, I wanted to come, but I felt like I was starting all over…AGAIN. What I learned from Pat: Don’t compromise. If God brought you to it, He’ll bring you through it.

2013, Djibouti: From left to right: Kimberly Bell, Sonja Bronner (of the Bronner Bros family!) and Marketia Prileou. These are some of my ladies from the Expressions Women’s Group that was started by Carrie Wade. I’ve spent more time with Sonja, and she’s taught me that it pays to NEVER lose your focus on God!

2013, Kenya: A few things I learned from Gilbert Igadwah: 1) A good work ethic, good attitude, and skill beat top notch talent any day 2) Be grateful for EVERY good thing, every day of life God has given you 3) God will cross your path with whoever – whenever, wherever and however…your job is to be ready! Oh yea…and 4) Boaz was a good dude!

2013, Djibouti: Ying Zhong and Maddy Fuentes: both have taught me that 1) men and women CAN be friends (and JUST friends) 2) prior enlisted officers ROCK 3) life is good and to be appreciated

2013, Djibouti: Mr. Leon Dean…again 1) Men and women CAN be JUST friends. 2) You do not get to quit just because things aren’t going as you planned. 3) There’s no good reason to be angry all the time. Be quiet (or loud), be happy, laugh and enjoy life.

2012, en route to Djibouti: These are my buddies from weapons training: Lu, Erin and Tracy. Lesson: Camaraderie makes difficult situations MUCH more bearable. In fact, it can even make them fun!