friends and councils and beans

Oh, it's been a joy having this group of Canadian friends here with us this past week.  Lots of progress has been made in the men's dorm, and having them work alongside is always such an encouragement to us. And as you can see, our kiddos loved having them as well :)  

Today they are off, and Matt along with them.  

What this time? Well, something quite different, actually.  Today Matt heads to Washington DC for the CCCU President's Conference.  He'll be gathering with fellow Christian college and university presidents from around the world, along with the Chaplain of the Senate, the US Secretary of Education, authors, speakers and government officials, to share perspectives, collaborate on solutions and build relationships. 

Emmaus is in the middle of the accreditation process with the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, and this such a unique chance to work with people from around the globe. 

You can see the full list of speakers here, check out the agenda here, or of course I'll keep you posted as he's keeping me posted!  

The plane they're taking out also brought in Rick and Carol, so we've got a great team of visiting professors and friends of Emmaus (and personal) here right now to keep us busy while Dad's gone (though that doesn't mean there weren't lots of little girl tears this morning :)  

As we were family walking last night, we were chatting with Edlin and Granny as they were sifting out the chaff and pebbles from the beans, even picking out any black beans mixed in. It touched my heart to think of all the millions of beans Edlin and Gran have sifted their 20+ years at Emmaus each, mundane work for His Kingdom, for his glory. 

What an encouragement to me, as we love and serve men and women called to ministry, together.  As we serve the men and women coming to serve them. As we care for the discipleship of our children.  

So. Many. Mundane, bean-sorting tasks each day, and yet when I see Edlin and Granny doing it in peace and with patience and with joyful hearts, the glory and honor it brings our Lord is so apparent.  

Thank you for praying for our team's trip out, Matt's trip to the capitol, and for our family as we're apart!