Surprises

Surprises … 

Yesterday, was a day of “surprises”.  

Surprise number 1:  Our 18 hour journey (11 hours in the air) from the OSLC parking lot to the hotel in Santa Cruz went by quickly.  We had TWO hot meals, one for each leg of the journey.  I can’t remember the last time I had a real meal (with metal utensils no less!) on a plane.  And the meals were good. Copa knows how to treat its passengers!  And the hotel we stayed at was delightful.  Each room was essentially its own villa.  Unfortunately, we were only there long enough to sleep for a few hours and shower. 

Surprise number 2:  We were thoroughly examined prior to leaving the airport.  Unlike past trips, every bag was carefully searched.  Since we had so many supplies, including hundreds of personal hygiene items, we had some explaining to do.  It looked like we were bringing items into Bolivia to sell.  Even though there were a few tense moments, they allowed us to keep everything.  Praise God!

Surprise number 3:  Yes, I saved the best for last.  Once we passed through customs, we entered the main terminal of the airport.  And who was there to greet us?  Pastor Esteban and Evelyn and three others from their congregation in Mineros.   This was unplanned and totally unexpected.  They drove 2 ½ hours to welcome us to Bolivia.  Imagine that!  They certainly have the gift of hospitality!  We can’t wait to see them again next week.

As we journeyed yesterday, a couple of things did not surprise us.  One, we weren’t surprised to be covered in prayer.  I suspect some of you were praying while we were going through customs.   We are grateful to God for your willingness to come before the throne of grace on our behalf.  Two, the Lord Jesus Christ always provides.   All of us arrived safely.  None of our bags were lost.  We entered Bolivia with thankful hearts … thankful for the opportunity to partner with God’s people in Cochabamba and Mineros … thankful for your willingness to send us. 

In Living Hope,

Pr. Jensen