On Saturday, our summer missions team left for their trip to NAOMI House in Arizona. They packed, prayed, and got on the road by 8am. The route is basically I-10 east to I-15 north to Barstow. Then from Barstow, I-40 east into Arizona through Flagstaff all the way to the small town of Joseph City. With stops for gas and lunch, the team usually arrives at NAOMI House around 4pm. The road trip is usually part of the fun. However, this time the drive was a bit of a nightmare.

Apparently, the northbound I-15 was closed for nearly 44 hours this past weekend after a truck carrying large lithium batteries turned over near Baker, forcing thousands of drivers to take portions of I-40 jamming the highway through the Mojave where internet, gas and food were scarce. Unsuspectingly, our NAOMI House team drove right into the middle of this mess. At one point, they were stuck in traffic in 118 degree weather with their stomachs empty and gas tanks low. Despite all the challenges, however, God was faithful and the team (especially the drivers) persevered. Because of all the delays, they didn't eat lunch until 8pm and they didn't get to NAOMI House until midnight. But they arrived safe and sound. What would normally be an 8-hour drive took 16-hours!

So even before the team got to NAOMI House, they faced challenges. Even before arriving or doing any ministry, they were tested. With all that, I heard they kept a great attitude and did not complain at all. I know many people were praying for them and still are. I believe it was because of these prayers that God enabled them to have patience and perseverance beyond what they normally would have. Even though I wish the drive wasn't so grueling, I don't think I could be more proud of the team for how they handled it! And I think the patience and perseverance they displayed will serve them well.

The team has started to blog or share updates from NAOMI House. I invite you to click on the church's website over the next few days to read and see team members sharing their experiences of what God is doing with and through them this week. Please continue to keep the team in prayer . . . and for a safe, undramatic drive home on Friday.

Blessings,

Pastor Darren