Our team is currently sitting in the Newark, New Jersey airport waiting to board the next flight—a short 15-hour hop to New Delhi, India. While we wait, I figured it would be a good time to begin our first missions update.

Sunday morning began with a wonderful send-off prayer in the Vineyard Church lobby. Several people were already there preparing for church, and it was encouraging to have that moment of prayer together before leaving. Still, it felt a little strange driving away knowing the journey had officially begun.

The drive to O’Hare went very smoothly—we only needed one bathroom stop along the way. Once we arrived at the airport, though, I found myself once again needing to trust the Lord. Maybe it’s just me, but when I see long TSA lines I sometimes get a little nervous and start praying, “Lord, please help us make all of our flights without delays or cancellations."

So far, everything has gone well.

Our layover in Newark (a little over three hours) turned out to be a great opportunity for the team to spend time talking and getting to know each other better. Sam, Connie, Heather, Chris, and Denise (my wonderful bride) have been such a joy to travel with. Some of us have traveled quite a bit, while others are newer to international trips, but everyone is doing great.

Now we’re preparing for the final leg of the journey. Estimated flight time is over 14 hours.