Unqualified

As a leadership team we have been going through a wonderful book called, "Gracias!" by Henri Nouwen. The book is comprised solely of his journal entries as he traveled through some of the poorest places in South America. I wanted to show you this exert from his very first journal entry as he is getting ready to leave for his trip.

"Off and on the thought occurred to me that I was not ready for this change. I felt too tired, too preoccupied with personal struggles, too restless, too busy, too unprepared. But as the day of departure drew closer, I felt a growing sense of call. What had seemed little more than an adventure now presented itself as a vocation." (Nouwen)

This is pretty spot on to what I have been feeling lately. As each day goes by, I can't help but think to myself things like: "Todd, you aren't ready to lead a team yet", "Todd, you have too much going in your life that you need to deal with before leaving for another country", "Are you even sure this is what God wants for you?" Despite these initial doubts, as the departure date draws closer and closer, I am reaffirmed that this is where God wants me. While I do all I can to keep up with life here and now, my desire to go to Romania grows everyday. This has been such a great lesson for me in remembering that despite my faults, or any doubts that I may have, God is so much bigger and He has drawn me not only to Him, but He has drawn me to the people of Romania.

I am getting excited!

Todd W. Phillips

Team Building

Preparing for the trip is always one of the best growing experiences a team can have together. Whether it is problem solving, going on an adventure or just hanging out, we will be learning more and more about each other. This is a crucial part of the trip. If we do not bond as a team, we will not function as a team. This years team, is already amazing. Each member brings so much to the group, that I am blown away by the friendships that are already starting to form. This is going to be an amazing group.