Any month that begins with push-starting the old thirteen passanger VW bus that came to pick you up at the airport is bound to be good.
That's how we were welcomed into the great Down Under, and it was awesome. I didn't know what to expect when I came to Australia, and so I really just went along for the ride until we got here, which is good, because as a world racer we are learning to let go of our expectations. And the first thing that I noticed when we landed was that it was cold! Not like back in Maine, but it was blessedly and mercifully dry and cool! A huge change from Malaysia. Also, we were orginally told to plan on camping in our tents in backyards, but instead we have been graciously hosted by our ministry contacts in their staff housing. This month my team is again partnered with Youth With A Mission at their base here in Perth. Our contact and coordinator with YWAM has set up several different ministry opportunities for us to assist with and learn about while we are here. Every day it changes a bit, and we rotate ministries with the other world race team that is here with us. So far we have done door-to-door ministry, helped clean houses for those who are unable due to injury or disablilites, gone to a local park to hang out and spend time with homeless men and woman who come to get free food, prayer walked up and down a street in the red light district, and helped YWAM transition the contents of a warehouse into a new location. That's a taste of what week one in Australia looked like. Perth is located on the coast near the Indian Ocean, so there are a lot of beautiful views of the water and the sunsets to see. Also, Perth is a very diverse place socially. There are people from all over the world as well as many indiginious tribes and people groups. Where my team is living and working isn't right in the city, but it's within walking distance. We've done a lot of walking on the race, and this month has been no exception. If it is not your favorite thing to do, it soon will be : )
Things to be praying for:
Continued protection and good health for all the teams on the field right now.
That we would continue to work with and for each other in effective and understanding ways to help one another grow individually and as a team.
For the work we do to bless the ministries we are partnered with as well as the people they are reaching. That people would see all of it as an extension of Christ's love for them.
Thank you for all of your continued prayers. The comments and emails are a huge source of encouragement for me. Also, on my playlist right now is the new album from Tenth Avenue North, "The Struggle". It was recommended by a team mate and I've been listening to it almost continuously since week one.
