In League City, Texas....

I've met a lot of great people the past few years who have come to South Africa on outreach teams. This past August, my friend Kacy's home church (now called Citymark Church) sent their second outreach team. I had the chance to get to know Mary, one of the team members. Recently, I told Mary I was in Austin and she sent me a note asking if she could fly me to Houston for the weekend (she had a free ticket she needed to use). Grateful for her generosity, I gladly accepted the offer.

Saturday the church hosted a Christmas in the City event at a local park. Their band played and there were many different activities for visitors of all ages. It was a great time.

Citymark Church currently meets in a school on Sundays. They are in the process of remodeling a new building to relocate to in January. After service on Sunday, Pastor Steven Yoes gave a tour of the new building. He cast the vision, and the church prayed over the property. Steven later told me he was really excited I was there during this time. Citymark Church partners with Ten Thousand Homes and gave money to build a few houses in South Africa. When Steven prayed a few months ago about whether or not to give money to Ten Thousand Homes, he felt like God said "if you build home in South Africa, I'll provide for your home (their new building) in Texas." They are excited to continue to be a part of a bridge between Texas and South Africa.

Pastor Steven Yoes and myself

Another friend Laura Chaffin, who I again met through Kacy in South Africa, also met up with us for lunch on Sunday. It was so fun to see her - and pick up where we left off a few months ago.

Laura, myself, & Mary

The weekend went too quickly! I enjoyed hearing about what was happening with my Texas friends as well as the opportunity to talk about and reflect on the time spent in South Africa. I remain thankful for the friendships made throughout the world the past few years.