So after about 23 hours of travel starting mid-day Saturday, I landed with my squad leadership in Manila yesterday at 9:30 in the morning. With the time difference being exactly 12 hours from the east coast, we all had to get kind of creative to stay awake to beat out jet lag. But I’m proud to say that jet lag did not overcome.
Compared to the fog of yesterdays exhaustion, I would consider today our official first day. I walked outside and recognized the smell. I had never been to the Philippines but they still have that South-East Asia smell. You know, the smell of moto exhaust, fried…something and a hint of wet wood(its typhoon season). I spent my quiet time this morning reading, praying and enjoying that familiar smell. This morning the team leaders were in training until the finance and logistics people arrived during lunch. Then we took the team leaders into town to pull out money and get sim cards for our phones.
It was fun seeing everyone react to everything for the first time…fitting 7 people on a moto with a side car, riding in jeepnies and remembering how much asians love to blast old love ballads from the 80’s and 90’s. They’re so eager and genuine with their desire to not only pursue God this year but their teams as well.
As launch gets under way and I sat in on the team leader training and finance training I’m filled with a gratefulness. Because this wasn’t in the plan. But I’m so glad that God brought me to this. Because as a squad leader my job is to love and pour into these guys and thats exactly what I love to do.
So as launch gets underway please pray that team unity and intimacy starts forming early and that God brings peace to everyone who’s dealing with fear and anxiety. Also please pray that God will bring unity to Di and I’s leadership and give us this love, wisdom and vision to lead this squad. The next time you all hear from me launch will be over and ministry begins!
