Honduras Eve

Beloved Mitzi

Today is an auspicious day.  First, it is the 86th anniversary of my beloved mother's birth.  She died in 2002 but remains close in my heart and the hearts of many.  My mother was a person of amazing grace.  She had the ability to make anyone she met feel like they were exactly the person she had been looking for.  What a gift that is - in the grocery store, at a cocktail party, anywhere -  to feel so special in another's eyes.  She was also a woman of great humor, creativity, love of adventure and deep faith.   I can only pray that, in some small way, I am or will become my mother's daughter. 

Today is also Honduras Eve.

"Twas the night before Honduras and all through the place, 

Amanda was frantic filling a suitcase..."   

It is so clear to me (and others) that this call began even before my first trip to Honduras in March of 2007.  Each trip, each email from Suzy or David, each prayer has led me to this moment.  I feel such a sense of peace and joy.  In our morning devotions by phone (yes, I am still teleworking!) with Wheeler, it came to me that this isn't solely my call.  In truth, the Holy Spirit has made a sweeping call, including many people.  So many people are part of this call.   I have been overwhelmed with the love and support from my children, my family, St. David's, my Honduras teammates, friends, and Facebook friends. 

A call from God is not without consequences, we see that over and over in Scripture.   Imagine how Zebedee felt when his two sons and business partners up and left when a stranger called out, "Follow me!" And yet, knowing the impact on their father, James and John dropped what they were doing and left.  I am acutely aware that my departure will cause pain and extra work for several people.  My children, father and Wheeler in particular will feel my absence.

God has been gentler with me than he was with James and John...easing me and my loved ones into this call and giving me months to prepare myself and them.  He has graced me with all the people around me, both here and in Honduras.  Instead of what must have been Zebedee's response, "Hey!  Where are you going, Come back here!" I hear, "Go with God." and "You are in our prayers." and "I love you." 

I believe that while asking much of the people I leave behind, God will bless their portion of this call, their ministry in supporting me and LAMB.  God is good that way.  He holds them in His hands.  Thanks be to God.


Lord, grant that I may always allow myself to be guided by you, always follow your plans, and perfectly accomplish your holy will. Grant that in all things, great and small, today and all the days of my life, I may do whatever you require of me. Help me respond to the slightest prompting of your grace, so that I may be your trustworthy instrument for your honor. May your will be done in time and in eternity by me, in me, and through me. Amen. - St. Teresa of Avila