I guess most of us may think that these words are for people that are brave or for those that are heroes. No, these words are the words we need to follow to fulfill the purpose we have been called to.
The Compeans are a family that have taken the first step and then another. They were the first family that we befriended in Mexico with a daughter Rebekah’s age. Their children were a part of the YUGO youth group that took place in our home on Friday nights that was run by Michelle (YUGO missionary). They hold a very dear place in our hearts.
The trailer was packed and we were on the road after many months of trying to plan a time to be together with the Compeans. This would be the last weekend we could spend time together as the Compean family would be leaving for five months to continue their work as missionaries in Africa. Their pets Shadow (dog) and Guacamole (iguana) share our domain.
While at the kitchen sink Kelli’s mom shared with me the fear of her daughter going to Africa. Ed and Kelli had sat their parents down and made known to them that there were many abductions in Africa. If such a phone call should come, their parents were told not to pay a ransom as the possibility of their return was slim. I can only imagine how our parents would have reacted to such a statement.
We proudly joined the Compean family in their last church service at their home church where they openly shared the ministry they would be involved in. They will experience the culture and needs of Africa people and then come back and train missionaries to go into Sudan and Uganda to reach those that have been affected by the Lords Resistance Army. This is a rebel group in Northern Uganda that has been killing and abducting children for years.
Tears rolled down my face as I selfishly thought of how much I would miss this family. They have been not only our friends but also great mentors in our lives.
YUGO’s purpose as a missions organization is to motivate youth to taste and see what missions is all about. Some of these that come and join us this summer may be called to go into the depths of Africa to serve the lost. Some may be called to go home and pray for those that are called to the field. We each are called in different directions with the gifts that have been given to us.
Rod, Rebekah and I will wear many hats this summer while joining other staff in serving the youth that join us in Tijuana. We only have four summer interns here at the Tijuana Outreach Center this summer. This leaves us room for volunteers to join us in ministry.
Franz and Karen and their children from Alberta have joined us for five weeks. Franz is a mechanic and has blessed many with his abilities to keep our vehicles running and in tip top shape. Karen has joined the kitchen staff. The job in the kitchen seems to be never ending. Thank you Franz and Karen!
We are excited to share that we will have lots of Canadian company this summer. Rebekah has a couple friends that will come on separate occasions. Bryce and Jayleen will spend time with us on the field as well as the youth from Morinville Alliance. Sounds like a great summer in store for all of us.
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