What a Difference a Few Days Can Make . . .

. . . in our perspective. A week ago we had a new water softener installed but there was some problem with the configuration of the pipes, and the house water was not routing through it for treatment.

So began a digging expedition for Jim that led to the discovery of an unrelated pipe problem that had to be fixed, which grew more complicated and required shutting off the water to the house for 3 days. So now after multiple challenges, that problem has been fixed but we have the same original issue.

A week ago I (Kathie) was frustrated that city water was still leaving its residue on everything it touched while a brand new water conditioner sat in the garage all ready to go. But after 3 days of NO water, except what was fetched in buckets from our neighbor's garden hose, I had quite a different perspective on the water I had disparaged a few short (long) days ago. The water that makes possible such luxuries as flushing toilets.

I couldn’t help but think about how we take for granted something like water when it’s plentiful. And sadly, the same can be true of the Living Water for those of us who have experienced it. Jesus said that those who drink of it will never thirst. I sometimes forget that people are thirsty – literally dying of spiritual thirst.

What a powerful experience as we get ready to leave this week for Croatia to join with Proclaimers and others from different parts of the world to be a part of multi-faceted outreach with our national Proclaim team in Cakovec, Croatia. This will be a new experience for Southern Cross Bluegrass Band after their ministry in Greece the past 2 years. We look forward to introducing them to Proclaim’s Ima Nade (There is Hope) ministry that we have been partnering with for almost 30 years! We will leave May 25 and return on June 6.  

We long ago came to expect and accept the barrage of physical and emotional challenges that are part of the spiritual battle as we approach the last few days leading up to a significant evangelistic event. This past week has been no exception. The plumbing issue, along with several other circumstances, has brought temptation to respond with frustration, but also has been a confirmation that we are in a significant spiritual battle. And like so many life experiences in the journey with God, the mission that we envisioned does not become a reality, but through it God leads another direction accomplishing what he intended and teaching us and stretching our faith along the way.

We have total expenses of $3900 for our flights and tour costs. If you would like to have a part in sending us on this mission you can donate here: Donate at Proclaim and select Jenkins on the drop down menu. Thanks for prayers for us and the entire endeavor as we go to offer the living water.

Kathie and Jim