We made the long trek home leaving the hotel at 9:30 am Monday. I arrived at my home at Noon on Tuesday. In total it was 39 hours in transit. We had some nice surprises along the way including sitting in a very warm and cramped pre-waiting area before getting into the main terminal at Mumbai. Our plan was to go into a nice lounge and wait. But by the time we got past that section, it was almost time to board the plane.
Another nice surprise was getting pulled out of the customs line in Newark and being sent to the interrogation section. I was led by a uniform, gun toting officer who didn't say a word to me. I had no clue what was going on. I kept thinking, "I declared the cashews on my form." But then, my past caught up with me. Seems there is a guy in this country that has been on the run from the law since 1990 with my name and my birthday. Every now and then I get reminded of this. Once in Maui, detectives came to my house (total freak out!) When I got a speeding ticket in Oregon I was almost arrested for this guys warrent. Coming back in from Toronto I got drilled once. And this latest fiasco. After 30 minutes of waiting finally they said I could go. The officer asked me if I get this alot, and I said, once is alot to me. Highly annoying. Funny thing is the guy has a full head of blond hair and blue eyes...I couldn't come up with this disguise I am wearing as a ruse. He doesn't have my looks nor my social security, but its sorta creepy.
We got home and upon arriving the contingent of officers heading to the Israel bible tour were at our gate. One smart alek said how come the TP isn't in uniform. Bleh. We got a real hamburger (my first five guys - eh - I will take In and Out any day) and then home. As I was getting ready to take a nap I noticed that my ankles and feet were swollen. I looked like a 52 year old pregnant man. Not fun.
I have been sharing with the Cadets and staff the best I can what I experienced without getting all melodramatic about it. I know people tend to get closed ears listening to people like me who have been to third world situations. If I am changed, then thats all what counts.
I narrowed it down to three things:
Purity - I was with people who were honestly seeking to be more holy in their live and with great passion. I was touched by their sincerity and their drive to be more like Christ.
Power - I rubbed shoulders with people who were in touch with real power, holy spirit power. Power to do the right thing. Power that burst forth in joy. Their joy touched my lame heart.
Proud - this world wide Army of God is an amazing organization. I say, if you have nothing good to say about the organization then leave. If you don't believe what we teach or do, there are other places for you to complain about I suppose. I stood with men and women half way around the world who are keeping poor people alive through the dollars we send their way.
I went to the local Ralphs last night I just was amazed at the choices again I have in my life. I am constantly amazed that God would even choose to use me for His work.
I started my second year yesterday as TP here in the West. Time flew by and what a way to end my first year. Looking ahead Cindy and I get the privilege to sit with the other Training Principals this week and discuss future educational trends in the SA. We will be visiting the brigades for Spring Campaigns. We get to minister at the Southwest Youth Councils in April. In May I will begin my studies on my doctorate in Spiritual Formation at Gordon Conwell Seminary in Boston which I am beyond thrilled about.
Good things instore. Thanks for reading along in my journey and praying for me. I will return the favor to you.
