With the increasing improvements of technology, Eric can do many aspects of his work effectively at a distance. Every so often, he must go to the ministry in person and be present to do what he is called on to do. Sometimes that means an early or late meeting or a day trip to a nearby city. Recently, it meant a short 36-hour excursion.
It meant he missed a dear friends' birthday lunch.
It meant tears on his shirt as he said goodbye to the kids.
It meant restless nights of sleep for all of us.
It meant being "on" for Eric as he engaged with the people involved in the ministry.
It meant I got the kids up and to church by myself.
This list is not one of complaints or to make our lives sound more difficult than they are. Rather this lists ways I can prayerfully give to God. These things are uncomfortable for me, not part of my routine and, honestly, things I have complained about before. But instead of responding grumpily at all we miss or give up, I can choose to be a joyful giver. I don't always make that choice and God impressed that on my heart as Eric was leaving this time. All this to say, we gladly accept this as part of the ministry. I never love the idea of Eric being gone from home but I do love watching as he serves the Lord. This is part of how I surrender to God.
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