Did You Miss Her?

I had much thoughts and advice thrown my way concerning leaving my daughter and wife behind...

• It will be rough on her (Janelle), but easy on you. You won't have time to think about it.
• Don't be surprised if you cry at night, even if you're not a crier.
  
• Enjoy this last trip. You'll never want to go back.
• You're daughter will likely forget who you are.
• You're daughter likely won't even realize you are gone.

So, back home, and how am I feeling about it all?

I really didn't want to leave them that morning.
I missed my daughter terribly.
I wanted my wife there to experience with me and serve alongside me.
I prayed for them more than I ever do at home.
I had moments where I was ready to go home and see them.
BUT, above all, I knew I was exactly where I was supposed to be for the time I was supposed to be there.
I never want my daughter, my wife, or those I minister to see a man chose comfort over commission, or feelings over faith. I will not stay home simply because it's tough to leave those I love behind.

I will go again and have to leave my wife and family at home for a season... where? I don't know.
Sometimes Janelle will come with me.
Sometimes, Katylynn will come with me.
Sometimes, both will come.

I will make sure those I love know that I love them deeply in the midst of my absence. In fact, I spent a morning in India journaling on ways I am going to be faithful to minister to my wife and daughter when I'm gone in the future.

God has called me to spend my life on young people, both across the street and around the world.
God has called me to be a faithful, loyal, and loving husband.
God has called me to be a father who shows his daughter a glimpse of the love her Heavenly Father has.

Somehow, I'm convinced that all three of those callings, when submitted to him, will be able to coexist!