Today is the last day of our mission trip. I am overwhelmed with many emotions, but as I reflect on the week I think that what I am taking away most from this experience is all of the wonderful people that I have met along the way: the people in need at the various sites (the neighbors), the fellow participants, and all of wonderful servants answering God's call at the various ministries: the soup kitchen, the homeless shelter, the coffee house...

Spending time with the neighbors, you discover that each of them has their own story, some terribly tragic. One can see how a person can end up in their situation. Many seem doomed from the start, born into families where they have to face unbearable situations , alcoholic or drug addicted parents, abuse, abandonment, physical violence, extreme poverty, broken families,... One can truly understand why Jesus tells us not to judge. We have no idea what a person has had to face in their life. I was moved to compassion by the stories that I heard and I felt his love for them and I wanted to help them. I was also overwhelmed with gratitude for all that God has done for me. Then I also saw all the dedicated servants who spent so much of their lives and resources to do all they can to help. Some of them were elderly with their own health issues...They inspire me to want to do more to serve the Lord. It occurs to me that I have seen a glimpse of God's kingdom. Jesus talks of a future kingdom, but he also speaks of the kingdom that is here now if we only have the eyes to see it. There are opportunities all around us when we pray first then step out in obedience and faith knowing that the good work that God began in us he will eventually see through to completion! I feel overwhelmed by God's love, humbled by his infinite mercy and grace. I am definitely glad that I made this trip!

Elizabeth O'Brien