Something Good Indeed

As our time near Houston winds down, I can say with gratitude, it has definitely been “somethin’ good”. As I sit and consider the last ten days, it feels a little bit like a year's worth of living has happened within them but in the best ways.

Like I'd imagined, the kids spent entire days playing with old and new friends. They created swings out of branches, came home super-dirty (always a win), and peppered us with stories of kids they'd met along with their life stories.

Unlike I'd imagined, I was allowed to lead children's church here at the RV park one Sunday morning. On another Sunday, I got to watch in awe as the usual leader taught and led dozens of kids...all because the Lord started working in her heart years ago to bring children's church to campgrounds.

To this day, my favorite thing about living on the road isn't the national parks, the wildlife encounters, or the adventures we've had. While those are often mind-blowing, my most favorite thing continues to be the gift of other's stories that they share with me. The time spent at this park has been full of them. Whether over a planned campfire or an unexpected meeting while walking dogs, I have been able to hear amazing testimonies and heart-wrenching histories of the people around me.

Praying with and for the storytellers is a privilege that both encourages my spirit and humbles my heart. From abuse and abortions to victory over drugs, restored marriages and medical emergencies, I've been allowed to walk alongside women (be it for 20 minutes or a sustained friendship) that overwhelm me with their faith and strength. (And once again, I ask myself, "Whose life is this?")

By far, the most incredible thing that we got to witness was the baptisms that took place immediately after church last Sunday. The church here is on fire! People show up in everything from pjs to business casual. They gather and eat meals that are sometimes small and sometimes gigantic: either way, there will be food. They sing. The gospel is preached. They meet needs. Testimonies are given. Gifts are used. It’s raw and unrehearsed and beautiful!

Our time here is coming to an end. I won’t miss the palm tree lined pool and hot tub or the beautiful lake that spent hours underneath my paddleboard (but I will remember with fondness the mama and daddy geese that let me stare at their five adorable goslings for a long while). As we move east, I will miss the conversations, the relationships, and the people that have filled our days. We’ll get to see some of them “down the road.” My heart is filled with joy at that thought.

(We also went to the Houston zoo. We hope you enjoy the video as much as we enjoyed the experience!)