As we are now only 4 days away from the travel portion of our journey, we wanted to say a word to those family members and friends of our travelers who are not able to go. 

The travelers on this journey are a wonderful group of people and getting to know each of them has been a privilege and given us great encouragement.  Your friend or loved one will be traveling with some of the best the body of Christ has to offer.  Not because of any great thing they may have done or not because they are great theologians, but simply by the manifest demonstration of the love only God can place in the hearts of His creation. 

We are very diverse group.  Ages range from 15 to those in their 70’s.  Occupations range from professionals, homemakers, home builders and retired individuals to those who have found employment in an area about which they are passionate or where they can help people.  Except for our family, all but two of our travelers have never been to Israel and for some this may be the only opportunity they have to go. 

1. Take a moment to encourage your loved one or friend either privately or publicly.  If you post a blog comment just use their first name and last initial and the message you wish to share. 
2. Pray for them.  Ask God to open our eyes to some truth that will have a lasting impact and bring kingdom value.
3. Follow along during the days we are in the land via the blog.  Stay engaged and connected. 

These are exciting days leading up to our journey on Tuesday and I know that each of us going want to share that excitement with our families and friends back home.  Although you won’t be with us in person, know that you are with us in our hearts and we look forward to our return when we can share first hand all the things we have seen and heard.

Get ready and start saving for 2010?