One team trip was unusual in many ways, from before we left until we arrived home. This shouldn't be taken as an example of how we generally plan team trips. It definitely does not comply with standards that are suggested by missions organisations. A  couple of weeks before this trip, God had me ask the team members if they were willing to go and travel in Eastern Europe as described in the scripture. Its says, don't take extra money for the journey, or clothes etc. Just go and if they welcome you, accept the hospitality, if they don't just move on. Words to that effect.

You see, with two weeks before departure, we had raised enough money to get the team there, but not enough for transportation, accommodation, etc. and all the other expenses. It was a close knit team, and everyone agreed. We had no bus booked to take us from place to place, and did not know how we would get around the country. Didn't know exactly where we would stay, or exactly what day we would be moving on from one town to another. (Like I said, its not usually like this!)

After the team said, "Yes." the funds came in. Surprise. God always knows what He's doing! So in the next two weeks we were set and ready for our adventure. Two couples. A father and son.

We were invited to attend a conference for young leaders hosted by an International Mission organisation based in England. We were glad to be there and meet the people, but I began to wonder why. After three days of sitting in on seminars, and meals, and viewing the local spots of interest I was ready to move on! Then Jane and I were asked to join the leaders of the conference in praying commissioning prayer for the attendees on the last night of the conference. Would we? "Oh yes!!"

When the time came, the words of encouragement that were spoken to encourage the faith of the expectant delegates were enough to cause Jane to lean over and say, "I can't do this!" To which the only reply can be, "You're right. We can't do it."

We started to pray and speak words of encouragement and blessing over these young leaders-in-waiting at 8:15 p.m. This made the waiting worthwhile. It was one of those times when you'd say, "Just for this it was worth the trip." We have many times like that. I think every single person came up for Jane and I to pray for them. They laughed and cried, stood tall and fell over. For two years following we would meet people all over the country who said, "You prayed for me at....."

It was great. We didn't look up or stop 'til 2:15 a.m. The room was cleared out. A miracle just that Jane was able to stand for six hours straight to pray for people. Next morning we were on our way, but before bed, although we were tired, just time for one more cup of coffee at the Gradina down the street.