Bridging the Distance

"In true love the smallest distance is too great, and the greatest distance can be bridged."

Hans Nouwens

God has been doing something exciting over here.  He has planted a tiny seed of love for things beyond what we are familiar with, for things beyond America.  We are allowing Him to rain on this seed and I am sure that one day, it will be more evident on what we are to do concerning our part in sharing His story of grace.  But, right now, through prayer, we are bridging the distance between small us in small town America to precious souls in various countries, many of which we can't even pronounce.

Eric and I need to know there is something beyond our culture and easy way of living.  We need our kids to be a part of something bigger than themselves and more satisfying than their Wii. 

It hasn't been easy.  Making the time each night to sit down, read together, pray together...it takes discipline.  Allowing your heart to break for what breaks God's heart takes grace.  But the rewards...

There is no joy like your children's hands flying through the air when you ask them to pray something specific over a people group that they may never even encounter.  There is no joy like your children walking in the truth as they lift up prayers for the One True God to be known and loved.

It is a daily battle, an intentional purposing of sitting down and making time for something other than ourselves.  And yet, when I hear the innocent child like prayers, I know God is smiling and going into action.

We use the book Operation World as a resource, but I am sure there are many other options as well.  We needed to have our eyes opened, and this book has done just that.