Working with these people that are doing such difficult work has been a wonderful experience.  They are working in the midst of overwhelming odds.  The obstacles that they face are beyond belief and yet they take it in stride as if it were completely normal.  Because of their sense of call, they have learned to adapt.  They are able to take the complex and make in ordinary in terms of their daily living.  There are several lessons that we can apply to our lives and be better for it.

1. They have a clear sense of purpose.  They want their life to count.
2. They also have a very clear call to be doing what they are doing.  They are in the work they are in because they believe that God has put them there.  For them, doing what they do is not optional.
3. They have learned not to take themselves too seriously.  I have heard so many stories that blow my mind but as they tell them, you get the idea that the circumstances are no big deal.
4. They live with great flexibility.  If something does not go their way, they take it in stride and immediately formulate another plan.  Most of us panic when we do not get our way.  They have learned to adapt and this has drastically reduced their stress level compared to the rest of us.
5. They stay forcused.  They have a clear understanding of what they are supposed to do and they are not easily distracted.  They refuse to quit.
6. They are not selfish and exhibit a great sense of gratitude.  They flesh out what they believe.  They know that God takes care of them and they are grateful for the things that God does for them.

These are all things that we can and should have in our lives.  It would make a difference in the way we live and it would have a tremendous impact on those around us.

They say that we live in the Bible belt but we are surrounded by people who do not understand what it means to be a follower of Christ.  This experience has been a reminder to me of what we are to be doing where we live.

I am so much looking forward to Sunday and being a part of a great worship service this Sunday at 10:30.  Invite your friends to be with us.