Good morning, this old body of mine is letting me know it does not like what I have been doing with it. Hope you all got some rest, especially those just starting classes. Saturday was a great day for Patti and Ashley. The fact that we were leaving was diminished when we went to see Wesley. Wesley is a homeowner in Mosspoint, Mississippi whom they served on the Mission trip last year. His story of standing on his stove for hours and having a water moccasin come swimming in the window has more meaning now that we have seen his home and heard his testimony. It was obvious to see that Wesley, Patti and Ashley are more than acquaintances. They are truly friends, connected through the spirit of Christ. Also, Erica, Roy and Colleen on Thursday went to see Allen, another of those folks we served last year. Although Allen can’t speak, his eyes revealed the thanks and connection he had with those who helped him. The Hurds were able to meet their friend; they had worked on her house with the February crew last year. Even though they had not previously met they were connected. When God calls us to serve there are always rewards. Thankfully these servants listened to "the missionary call." Their lives have been changed because they accepted the Lords invitation. The flights home were interesting in one respect because of Sippi, Julia’s orphaned kitten that returned with us. This little refugee was the object of much attention. Perhaps it was good promotion for our work in the Gulf Coast. I don’t remember much after leaving the ground in Atlanta, I was tired from the work we had accomplished. Work that we will be returning to be a part of for years to come.

We who served are acutely aware of the fact that we left many things undone. One week of concentrated effort may seem to be so very little to us. Measured against the sheer number of empty homes and the state of disrepair of many of the homes currently occupied. Yet, if you had witnessed the tears of joy of the Havens family that we served. You also would believe that one person, one team, of committed persons could change the world. I want to thank all of you for your cooperative spirit and you’re sense of purpose. You guys are awesome! I was able to serve along side you folks and had no issues to manage, no conflicts to resolve. It was a great experience for me and I hope "yall" found it meaningful? I heard a quote yesterday in the message given at the contemporary service that I wanted to share with you. "The focus of our awareness becomes our reality". What have you been focused on since we left Mississippi? I pray that it has been on the good that was accomplished. Jesus, in the Gospel of John, instructed Peter to "care for my sheep". I want to thank you for caring for His sheep. I pray that you will continue to grow in your relationship with Jesus Christ. I also pray that each and every one of you will consider being a part of next year’s effort. The planning begins today, I believe this adaptation of the quote I heard Sunday says it all. Allow Jesus to become a greater part of your reality and he will become a greater part of your focus. I am truly humbled by your efforts on behalf of our brothers and sisters.

Shalom, Mort