Home school Conference--One of Life's Amazing Surprises

Ruth, Isaac and I were blessed to be able to attend a week in Chiang Mai at a home school conference.  Those of you who know me well know my passion for home schooling.  I always loved being a part of co-ops, participating in field trips and doing group activities.  But since we have been in Thailand, these things have been pretty much unavailable.
But last week, we had the opportunity to travel with Sandy Lovorn and her 4 kids by overnight bus (12 wonderful hours) to be a part of a conference.  The kids had a week of testing mixed with fun VBS activities while the parents enjoyed worship, testimonies and teaching.

Besides meeting some wonderful new missionaries and making new friends, we were so encouraged.  I have been to conferences that teach how to better educate your children in just about every known subject.  But this was different.  Although it did include some of that, it was really a time of spiritual and emotional growth.  We learned about conflict resolution, meeting needs and understanding your children's emotions and beliefs, the process of healthy transition into a new culture and how to take the temperature in your home.  We opened our hearts and lives and found that our hearts were broken for the pain of our fellow workers, and our hearts were healed knowing we were not in this alone.  It was an time to be vulnerable because we were in a safe and loving environment----something we don't often find out here on the field.
I can hardly express how God met us and brought many things into perspective.  Sometimes we don't even know what we need, but God always knows.  And He surprised me when He showed up in this forum to minister life and healing to me that I have desired for a long time.  What an amazing God we serve.
My heart is so full of gratitude to God and the people who sacrificially gave of themselves so we could be a part of this.  It is rare to find people who will come all the way to Thailand--taking time from work, family and finances--just to help the kids and moms who are here supporting their husbands.  It definately is not very glorious--no salvations to report, no miracles, no healings---just playing and singing and laughing with some kids and giving their parents a chance to refuel.  Only God knows what a difference it has made in my life.  I have only one regret, that I didn't bring Ben with me.  Next year I will try to make sure he is able to be a part too.
So, if God happens to tell you to do something that seems rather insignificant, please don't ignore it or judge it according to your measure.  It could be that He is trying to meet a need that no one could understand except Him.  Go ahead and reach out and do it.  Who knows what heart could be touched.