here we go

Yesterday during church, I shared with the congregation that I was leaving for Russia. Several people asked me when I would be leading a team back and what kind of work we would be doing. I would like to lead a team back to Russia in late summer of 2009. I am not sure of the kind of work we will be doing. I don't want to assume that I know what kind of relationship they want. Part of the reason for this trip, the primary reason, is to simply meet the people, listen and learn. I want to see how God is already at work in their community and how we can collaborate with them. My hope is that our conversations and relationship might also include some of their leaders visiting us. As I go, I am reminded that I am not going to "help" anyone. Rather I am going to learn how God is already at work in the lives of people across the world and how I can be a part of that. It reminds me that when I approach anyone, even right "help" another, I miss the way God is already at work, and perhaps the ways I need that help.