For whatever reason, it really hit me tonight that this mission trip is gradually becoming reality. With each step that I take in preparation, my excitement, along with my anxiety, grows. I know that this is God's plan for me, however, and though these nine months, spent entirely out of my own comfort zone, will be emotionally and physically trying, God will be with my team and me every step of the way. It is incredibly awesome and reassuring to know that nothing on this trip will come as a surprise to God. No matter how hard I try to imagine what may be in my near future, I cannot come up with a plan that remotely compares to the greatness of the path He has in store. 

"Your heavenly Father already knows all your needs, and he will give you all you need from day to day if you live for him and make the Kingdom of God your primary concern. So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today."  -- Matthew 6: 32-34

Nonetheless, the whirlwind of emotions accompanying this trip has taken me by surprise. I know there is no need to worry, though, because the Lord has provided missions as a way for me to not only invest in the lives of others in order to spread the Word, but also as a way to grow in my own faith. I cannot wait to share with y'all how God moves in me, my team, and the friends I encounter!

Grace,

Laura Butler