In a little over two days, I'll be on my way to Albania for the third time in the past year and a half. I'm thankful that it's become a familiar, even comfortable place to me as I brace myself for the two weeks of intensity. At least four of the international staff members arrived at the beginning of the week to start on-site preparations. Today, one man has re-applied for Visas for our 5 Egyptian delegates who are some of many who are still waiting on theirs! (They aren't scheduled to arrive till a week after me, so there's time, but not much!). I'm glad that there's still hope as I heard from a dear Fijian friend that she will not be able to come as her Visa was denied. That is so sad to me and a reality of international travel, whose Visa requirements are heightened in Europe because of the refugee crisis the past few years.
In the meantime, you've probably heard about the protests at the Hong Kong airport, which caused flight cancellations for two days this past week. Thankfully, it seems like that's settled down. Then there's British Airways who planned to strike in August, but we're hoping and praying they won't. I am flying through London, though not on BA. 😅These are one of many issues that are outside of our control, but directly affect our 200-300 people flying as well as the airport pick-ups, hotel check-ins, etc.
It's good at times like these to keep our hearts and minds free of worry and connected to the love and power of a good Heavenly Father. He's the One with ultimate control over every circumstance and the One that we can pray to for our needs, fears, and things outside of ourselves. I'll have to remind myself of this in the next few weeks, ha!
I am unsure if I'll be able to post while there, but please do pray that this would be a joyous, fruitful time as nearly 80 nations will join together. Please also pray for safety and health for all of us and our loved ones as we travel. Lastly, (it seems surreal to write, but) please pray that I will finish well. Thank you!
