Friday was another full day of preparation—screenings, meetings with the mayor, CRICOL, and others—woven together with the steady rhythm of work that needs to happen before the medical clinic next week. It was busy and exhausting, but also deeply satisfying. There’s something satisfying about seeing progress made, especially when it’s work you know will directly serve others.
One task that was especially important to me, was reorganizing our inventory of glasses. We went through more than 2,000 pairs, removing those that were outdated or deteriorating—something I’ve been hoping to do for a long time. It may seem small, but this reorganization is going to make a real difference: better glasses, easier to find, and ultimately better care for the people we serve. Knowing that this will help us work more efficiently and thoughtfully feels like a gift. I still have more to do, but a huge portion was accomplished today—largely because of the help of so many team members. Their willingness to jump in made the work lighter and faster, and I’m incredibly grateful for that shared effort.
Tomorrow morning, the plan is to go to church to finish medication counting and planning for the week with the local church helpers. I’ll admit, I considered skipping it so I could keep working and finish everything on my list.
But tonight’s Bible study gently challenged that thought.
There was a lot of conversation about being present—about the mistakes we can make on mission when we become so focused on tasks that we forget to notice the people and moments around us. The story of Mary and Martha came up, and it hit close to home. Today, I was very much a “Martha”—intent on getting everything done, driven by the checklist, and tempted to stay back and push through rather than pause.
It humbled me to realize that I need to be more of a Mary on mission—to be present, to sit in the moment, to make space for connection. This is something I know I struggle with, especially when there is work to be done and responsibility weighing on me. Both Mary and Martha have value in the story; both bring important gifts. But there is a time and a place for each. While the work matters, the relationships, the presence, and the spiritual connections must come first. That kind of focus requires letting go—something I’m still learning how to do.
Tonight, the rest of the team begins their journey around midnight, boarding a bus and heading to the airport in Indianapolis to start a long day of travel. There will be fatigue, moments of “are we there yet,” and likely a few thoughts of “I’m getting too old for this” or “why am I doing this?” But once they arrive, rest, and wake up together, those moments will fade, replaced by purpose and shared mission.
Please keep them in your prayers—for safe travels, patience, good health, and unity—so that we can all be together and ready for a meaningful and impactful week ahead.
Blessings,
Shelley
