Hello from Mary

It's hard to believe that when Drexel talked to me last fall about this
Dominican Republic trip, that it is now a reality -------------only 13
more sleeps until we have to be at the airport for 5 a.m. on August 9th.

As a retired Occupational Therapist and actively involved grandmother of
3 wonderful children this is a BIG step. One I'd never in my widest
dreams even imagined.

From the first I was excited about the opportunity to serve God in an
overseas mission, one which didn't involve creating buildings. !!!
It was like God saying 'here's something you could do'. Something that
at this time of my life I'd never thought would happen.

So, I prayed, talked & listened (well,tried !) to what and where God
wanted me.
Had a positive response from Jack (my husband). Then
waited........................until it came to booking flights and
finally trusting our Lord enough to commit to this adventure.

The physical aspect re: heat & diet is scary, so my faith in God's
provision & ongoing assurance of His love make me so thankful.
The intracacies of preparation details are worked through with help of
our team brothers & sisters in Christ. They are so wonderful, supportive
and caring. And what's more make it fun.

Working on my forgotten spanish is a challenge. Reading 'Foreign to
Familiar' by Sarah A Lanier was an excellent book that Margot has made
sure we all read. Also thank you to those involved at V.B.C. who gave us
each a copy of the Samaritan's Purse Teams preparation guide.It includes
a list of all TEARS staff. So it's great to become familiar with names
of people we will be meeting.
This preparation guide is building my excitement in being part of this
'Eye testing trip'

I am increasingly aware as I read & ponder God's word that when I am
weak He shows His strength. That we are to go as servants of the Lord
God , be available to Him & be obedient as we can do nothing apart from
Him. John 15:5
I don't know how God will use me, & what hidden talents He will
unearth.!! If any ??
I am looking forward to being part of the team & coming home with some
knowledge of what it's like to live in an underprivileged culture. I
hope to develope a deeper understanding of what it means to walk with
our Lord in an unfamiliar place.

Please pray for God's love to guide me & help me to respond as Jesus
would. I pray this for all of us as well.For strength in every way to
survive the heat & humidity ( 91* & 89*); for health,freedom from
sickness & for our team to be effective in all we do to the glory of God.
Dios le Bendiga.
Have a great holiday. Love Mary.