After two years of dreaming, one year of planning, endless hours looking at maps and missions, and the combined efforts of neighbors, Chip & Jamie,  fixing hanging racks in our rental van…… we are on the road!   We have thanked volunteers, encouraged staff, served meals, toured missions, spoken in chapels, as well as listened to stories of changed lives.  After traveling through four states, we think back to the stories that inspire us.

• The man who has done a 180 after selling his house to his drug dealer and losing his family.  We rejoiced with him as looks forward to his graduation from the program and reuniting with his children.
• The retired state trooper who tirelessly cooks mission meals for the hungry and who made some of the best mashed potatoes and gravy I’ve ever tasted.
• The man who fought his way out of the gangs to help others find their way.
• The  decorated military veteran who continues to serve faithfully even as he fights terminal cancer.
• The few who lost close loved ones, fell hard, and now are getting back on their feet with the help of others like those at the Rescue Missions.

Although there are many worthy agencies mentoring the young and helping the hurting, we would like to thank these few that we were able to experience for ourselves and be a part of our Arizona kick-off.

Teen Challenge Center/Phoenix –Thank you, staff, for helping set people free from their addictions.  I was moved to tears as my son, TJ, was leading the singing in chapel and hearing the joyous voices of the men .

Nogales Crossroads Mission – Thank you, Director Ben , for allowing your heart to be broken with the things that break God’s heart.  Your vision is an inspiration to me. .. and staff  for meeting the needs in this bi-lingual mission.

Tucson Gospel Rescue Mission—Thank you, faithful staff and Chaplain Dave (ACU alumnus).  You are the epitome of the “tender warrior” who cares deeply, but is firm with the accountability necessary for victory.   Keep discipling, my friend.  We have fond memories of ministering here during the 80’s with our youth group from Del Norte Baptist/New Life Fellowship.

Phoenix Dream Center/Church on the Street – Thank you, leadership and staff, at the Dream Center and at the Church on the Street.  You are an amazing group of people who are the “hands and feet of Jesus” to our community.

Phoenix Rescue Mission -  Thank you, Director Jay, and team for nearly 60 years of faithful service to the “Valley of the Sun.” This is where the dream began and you will always be our home base.   It’s been my privilege to be involved and bring my students down for the last 22 years. Thanks to our extended family who was there for our send off across the country.

Flagstaff Sunshine Rescue Mission – Thank you, Brother Mark and team, for caring deeply for hurting people.  So many have seen long term life changes.  And to you, Brother Dan (ACU alumnus), thanks for not giving up when God allowed you to go through some deep waters.  Now you have been able to use those experiences to give your time to help so many…a true story of God’s grace.

Holbrook Bread of Life Mission –  Thank you, Cherise and staff for the difference you’re making in northern Arizona.  You provide an atmosphere of love and acceptance, as well as a motivational accountability system.  We’re looking forward to seeing people catch the vision for helping you with the needed staff and expansion.

Yuma Mission – We’ll see you in August -  our last stop!

TRIP QUIPS

(like a movie clip – short glimpses of our trip so far)

QUOTE OF THE DAY:  “That was the shortest, best sermon I’ve ever heard in my life – and I’ve heard a lot of them” (as spoken by a man after hearing Tim’s pre-meal  5 minute devotional -  emphasis on  the word “shortest.”)  Tim’s students might find this hard to believe!

MOST BEAUTIFUL SCENERY:  Painted desert, red canyon walls and lightning storm in New Mexico

INTERESTING SIGN:  “No fake discounts here” billboard for tourist gift shop

WHAT WE FORGOT:  Dixie’s razor, wave machine for sleeping,  time zone changes when crossing state borders

CHEAPEST GAS PRICES:  $3.15 in Oklahoma City, OK

BIGGEST REGRET:  Not being able to stop and spend time with friends and loved ones in every city because of tight schedule.

So…Catch the vision

Feel our heart

Join the movement…

As we SERVE ACROSS AMERICA!!!