We've been here just over a year now.  We feel like we are finally ready to get involved and do somethings.  This feels kinda awkward because for so long we didn't have any extra time (having young children and being missionaries).  We've been praying for opportunities to get involved in the things God would have us do. 

Now, when I pray things like this I often feel like I ask with an agenda but this time I didn't.  God has been so awesome to grow us and stretch in this process.  We have taken on two major commitments that I know are blessing others.  My joy doesn't come in the fact that I'm making others happy but in the way I feel about this.  You see I'm a very selfish person.  I hate to be bothered (unless it fits in my schedule).  But instead of dreading these commitments I have found that I'm excited and blessed by my sacrifice for others.  It isn't about what I need or what but what I need to do for them.  This is truly a miracle because I know my sinful heart and ways.  I feel like God has lightened my load and I do not serve with a begruding spirit. 

I understand now why people say that serving blesses the person serving more than the person being served.  I honestly can say that I never really "got" that at a heart level before.  Praise God, now I do!

...through love serve one another.  For the whole law is fulfilled in one word, in the [statement], YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.                                              Galations 5:13b-14