24 People in Rio

Here we are. Twenty-four people whose paths have crossed for 10 days, united in 1 purpose, to serve 1 God.

I say this journey started 2 months ago when we had our first team meeting. But, in all honesty, for most of us, this journey began much earlier than that. Yes, it's 1 trip, but we have 24 different ways of getting here. Like a well woven trapestry, our lives are interwoven for "such a time as this." Hopefully our true colors will surface this week as we serve.

Sunday morning, we were commissoned. We stood in the atrium as friends and family prayed over us.

The passage in the Bible, known as the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20), says this Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

A lot of times, we start with the "GO and make disciples of all nations." But, I think it's equally important that we recognize that Jesus has been given all authority in heaven and on earth. It's in that same power that we are able to go. But, he doesn't just send us, He goes with us. "Surely I am with you always."

Already, we have experienced his presence.

Thursday afternoon, we left Nashville and Friday morning we woke up in Rio. We received traveling mercies, getting here easily, ahead of schedule, and with all our luggage.

Then, today, was a day of rest. After a 10 hour flight, for most of us, sleep was in and out. Once we were able to check into our hotel and eat lunch, a few of us napped. Tonight, we had our first team meeting. We were challenged to expect that this will be a week of transformation.

And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. (2 Corinthians 3:18)

So, here we are 24 people who are here for 10 days. Transformed by 1 God, we won't return the same.