Goodbye again

Yesterday, I found out a friend from Denver died of cancer - it hurts.  At firs,t I was just stunned thinking it was surreal, a dream, but reality is we suffered a loss.  I think I realize how far away I am from my closest friends in a time like this.  It's true I want to mourn, cry alongside of them.  I worked with Cary for nearly 8 years and although I wasn't in his closest circle, I knew him, appreciated him and valued him.  He was a man with a beautiful heart.  Today is just a day of tears.  I'm not sad he's with Jesus, I'd be more jealous if I thought about it.  I'm sad that I'm not with friends who are hurting and I'm sad I have to say goodbye to one more quality person in my life.  Saying goodbye just isn't fun.  I'll be grateful when goodbyes cease and I get to say hello to all who got to heaven before me.  Until then...hugs are nice.

PRAHA!

Prague...is the most beautiful city I've ever been to.  I was blessed to be able to go there with 5 others on a short 2 week outreach.  We got to work alongside teen challenge as they encourage and develop gypsy kids at an after school program.  We got to teach English, this was an adventure for us all, as well as go to a couple different English clubs to encourage the teens with testimonies, games and conversations.  There was also time for prayer & evangelism in the city center and worship with local IHOP team.  It was a busy time, but so blessed.  


My favorite memory: My team, how we bonded together even though we hadn't really had time to do that prior to our leaving.  It was such a blessing to go with people you realized were quality, something discovered during our two weeks there.


My favorite ministry time: Prayer walks.  Saturating the city with prayer, many times it felt very significant.  When I got home I was speaking to a student named Emily who had been in Prague a couple months earlier.  She said Prague was like a bridge from Western Europe to Eastern Europe.  It is as if this is the place where the two meet.  The city also seemed very empty of hope and joy - in need of prayer and a touch from God.  Even though I can't tell you what happened when we prayed, it made a difference, I believe that.  I believe when you talk to God about the people he loves and ask him to move in their lives it is significant.  


There are many great people and organizations in Prague wanting to make a difference and love on the unloved - be the hands and feet of God.  Please pray for them and the city they are in.  Thanks.