Today was a big day of travel for 79 men from around the country. We convened in San Antonio where many men renewed old friendships with warm open arms and others quickly found that we were all drawn to a common purpose to serve and glorify God in the week ahead. Quick introductions showed that there were 17 first timers and the group ages ranged from 18 years old to 100 years old!
Everyone was encouraged to release to the Lord the concerns, pressures and anxiety of the lives we have temporarily left so that we can receive his blessing of empowerment, strength and hope for the work and service that will present itself throughout the week. We are all challenged to step out to meet new faces, fellowship often, worship Him totally in our coming and our going and to be an encouragement to one another. The leadership team went through some basics about the week ahead and it is clear that great preparation has taken place so that with a little ‘flexibility’ by everyone we will all experience an amazing week!
After a welcome dinner 11 vans departed San Antonio for Del Rio, TX and the Faith Mission International center which will serve as home base for a couple of days. The first evidence of the ‘flexibility’ needed came when unexpected highway construction caused us to detour and the need to snake the caravan back to the route we were to follow. But the drivers and their ‘shotgun’ navigators did an awesome job and it all worked out.
As we traveled, each one in the van had the opportunity to share basic personal information since we are coming from all over. With an openness that is uncommon in my worldly life among men the basic sharing gradually led to a more deeper sharing with one another of life’s experience and the way God has moved to bless, save, give hope and restore lives in remarkable ways. It was, perhaps not surprising, that more than one voice would echo similar stories. Our desire to pray for one another and the power we know it will unleash is already unfolding.
Late night preparations for tomorrow are underway. And for those that can, sleep will be welcome as we prepare for the Day 2.