Off to Africa

         Saturday morning I drove my husband to O'Hare airport and gave him a big hug as he was departing for 12 days in Africa.  Warren leads our global work in South Africa and Zambia, and periodically needs to meet with our partners and discern how we are doing with our church's investment in those vital ministries.  I am very proud of the work he does (he's a full-time volunteer!), and have always been inspired by his passion for the under-resourced in our world.  But 12 days is a long time, and I miss him already.  He left with a nasty cough and cold, and I'm praying that his health won't be an issue as he faces such a relentless schedule. 
      Back on the home front, I get a taste of what single parenting is like - with just one child.  Already...it's complicated.  I have such a deep respect and empathy for dads or moms who essentially do the parenting job mostly on their own.  All of them are heroes in my book.  Much of the time, the shoe is on the other foot and I'm the one who travels.  I am happy to be able to serve our family in this way, and at the same time, grateful that usually I can parent with a fully-invested partner.
      To any of my brothers and sisters out there trying to be a great mom or dad without that partnership, investing in ministry as a volunteer or staff-member, attempting to get physical exercise and time alone with God - and maybe even some moments with good friends - I salute you today.  May you know the God of all comfort who delights in you and wants to give you strength and wisdom and grace moment by moment.  I will think of you as I try to figure out carpools and meals and homework and all the stuff of family life.