Adventure Awaits

**On July 22, I will begin a journey to Madang, Papua New Guinea to visit my dear friend, Sharon. She serves as a missionary there with Pioneer Bible Translators. Below is a recent letter that I sent to my prayer and support team.**

Precious friends.

In two weeks and two days, I will board the first of five airplanes, beginning the lengthy trip to see our sister, Sharon, in Madang, Papua New Guinea. The best I can describe my current state of mind regarding this trip: surreal.

What God has done and is doing to get me there is nothing short of miraculous. Your prayers and generosity are mind blowing, and His provisions bring me to tears. Just this weekend I unexpectedly received a check from a friend who happened to hear about my trip. Another friend of the family played an integral role in booking my airfare - I have never even met this dear soul. Not to mention the beautiful sacrifice of my parents and Matt's parents who have agreed to stay with our kids during my time away. Already I feel like God is moving things into motion faster than I can pray for them. I am deeply overwhelmed and humbled - His grace continuing to knock me to my knees.

Many people have asked what I will be doing when I am there with Sharon. My honest answer is this: I don't know. I am reminded of the Israelites journey to the Promised Land. While they knew the destination, they had no idea what God had in store for them along the way. Looking back they could see the whats and whys of that significant trip, but none of it they could foresee.

I know that my destination is Papua New Guinea, but what God has in store for me remains unclear. I expect to have a much deeper and greater understanding of Sharon's work with Pioneer Bible Translators, allowing me to develop a deeper partnership with her ministry. However only God knows what my days in Madang will bring.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your prayers and support thus far. I am deeply grateful - beyond words. Continue to pray for me as I prepare for the three days on airplanes (each way), the weeks away from my precious family, and the shock of being immersed in a culture dramatically different than my own. I also know that Sharon covets your prayers, specifically for her safety and the safety of the beloved people she has come to love. While she assures me that she is not in any danger (Mom, I promise!), her concern for the nationals and natives around her cause her heartbreak as they suffer at the hands of one another.

It is with joyful thanksgiving that I share this update with you as I prepare for my trip. Enjoy this visual update of my travels - the flights alone will provide such adventure!

http://www.gcmap.com/mapui?P=cmh-lax-syd-cns-pom-mag-cns-syd-lax-cmh

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. The Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace. (Numbers 6:24-26)

Grace upon grace,

Ali