Here we are, in the "wait" part of "hurry up and wait," sitting patiently at Gate A 14 at Lambert Field, St. Louis International Airport. I've bought a magazine, coffee, and an hour of internet service, waiting to board the plane for Washington in a couple hours.

Larry, Galen, Patrick and I are on our way to our first visit of Ricks Institute in Virginia, Liberia, West Africa. The idea that was conceived back in March is about to be born. Will there be labor pains? We expect so. We expect to see 4th world poverty, we expect to feel 87 degree heat that with the humidity feels like 113 degrees, and we expect to see the hand of our great and loving God at work in places we never imagined before.

With joyful trepidation we ask for your prayers and thoughts. Larry and I have been asked to speak each morning next week, bringing the morning devotion to the assembled students and staff--quite possibly the largest crowd we've ever addressed. What will we say? What will they think of us? Will they understand our southern Illinois English? May God use us and speak through us to share His love around the world. And may He bless you for your interest and support.

Together, we are going to Liberia today!