Israel Mission Team Reunites for the Uttermost

Inside mission team met outside mission team today to give God glory in what became an all day long praise fest. Praying, feasting, testifying, loving each other until it all ran together into one glorious day! Each told stories of glory, but what impressed me about this team was that under pressure they exhibited the fruit of the Spirit. Yes, we saw miracles. Yes, we met Jesus in a deeper way. Yes, God used us to bring unity, bless lay people and pastors, and intercede mightily. But to me the test of the heart of a team comes when pressure is brought to bear.
This team passed every test, satan was brought down whenever he tried to rise and the Son of Man was lifted up. Jesus says you will know His children by their fruit. (Matt. 7:20) I have never thought that meant by how many people have been healed, etc., (though that may well be a part of it and we certainly saw God's miracle working power in Israel), but how the fruit of the Spirit is evident in lives. Do the people show love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control? (Galatians 5:22) Even Paul says without love I am just a big noise. (my paraphrase 1Corinthians 13:1-3)
The Israel team was often "noisy" in their praise and songs to God (ask anyone who happened to be at the Jordan River the day the team was their floating and singing at the top of our lungs), but always full of God's love.
It's a sad/happy day when a team officially stands down from service. I feel sad, because I don't like to see the special gift of our fellowship as a team come to an end. Happy, because I know our mission was done to the "uttermost!" (Uttermost is a favorite adjective of Mr. Mark, veteran Bridge for Peace missionary.)
Our reunion today falls into the category of uttermost – even to the totally surprise gift of a gas barbecue from our dear family in Christ for Ed and my 40^th wedding anniversary sitting outside our kitchen door, a stunning anniversary cake, a beautiful card and the precious faces lit with love that surrounded us and sang to us.
Take joy today Bridge for Peace worldwide participants in the mission to Israel. We have taken this sacred trust of healing to the nations through Jesus Christ to the uttermost.