Sweet Home Alabama, Indeed.

Adventures in Missions was the name of the game and as I look back on the five days our team spent here, one thought crosses my mind: we sure had some adventures!

I have just come down from looking at Deb's wedding dress, from discussing with Cody and John the plans they have for the property we've helped start clean-up, and from holding little Heather's hand while running up the stairs to find little James.  These are all names of people I have known for less than five days.  These are the names of the brothers and sisters I have made in the short time I have been here and names I will surely never forget — especially in my prayers. 

This is missions trip numero nine for me.  I don't say this to claim bragging rights, rather, I say this somewhat ashamedly.  I have had eight previous opportunities to start, build, and maintain relationships with brothers and sisters from all corners of the world and of our very own country.  Eight chances to pray, bless, be blessed, encourage, and be encouraged.  We always say the trip doesn't end when our flight departs back home.  This is true for the most part; I'll keep the faces and names in my prayers for a couple of weeks, maybe months, then I'll remember them randomly down the road, once or twice, until they remain as just a memory and not much more.  I have eight memories, but only in my mind and not a single one has lived to be a lasting relationship.  Does that make sense?  I'm not sure… it's late.. hahaha.. What I'm trying to say is, I've lost out on some extremely valuable relationships due to my own laziness, inconsistency and failure to win over the tempations of "comfort." 

However, relationship number nine is one that I refuse to let go of… I hate to say that it's "different" from the others, because really, what does "different" say?  All I know is that God builds relationships FAST.  And the one we've built with the Goins' family was super ultra insane fast.  I am ecstatic to see what God has in store for their property, for Deb & John's blossoming relationship and for Anna and Cody's beautiful family.  Their future is very visible to me, which gives me the selfish hope that I'd be able to better maintain this relationship.  I can just picture and imagine beautiful Deb walking down the aisle in her custom-made dress and John, standing tall and smiling ear-to-ear to take his bride in his hand, Anna and Cody, Heather, little Cody and of course lil' James, all laughing and running around in the sprawling fruitful land that exemplifies "Sweet Home Alabama."  I have faith that our good Lord will pour upon abundant blessings on this family and guide them in every walk of life……. I will make sure of that via email, snail-mail, and some good ole prayer.

Lastly, the entire AIM team I've met and fellowshipped with here in Rainesville, Alabama, will be missed, very dearly.  Texas, Massachusetts, Tennessee, California, South Carolina, and New Jersey became one, big, loving Kingdom of God this past week and this has to be a taste of what Heaven's like.  Sweet Home, indeed!!!

Thank you AIM and thank you to the eternally awesome amazing wonderful Jesus.

Love,

Cheryl from New Jersey/New York City