Look at those kids…just looking down those trusses…

They didn’t know…

They didn’t know the importance of the foundation they would need…

They were just enjoying life…living each day to eat, drink, and be merry…

Because they didn’t know where those trusses would lead them…

Through meadows so beautiful it would take their breath away…

Over waters so rough they felt like they would be tossed off those tracks…

They would expand the line to the other side of the world…

And add a few more of their own…

They didn’t know of the attributes needed for such a journey…

The strength needed to climb those mountains…

The endurance to keep going…

The team effort that would be essential in carrying the weight together…

The places they would connect over time…

The lands they would fall in love with…

The white flags they would have to wave...

…but Jesus did…He knew it all…

And He became that unwavering stability…

He became the road map, the foundation, and the strength…

He taught them to endure, work together, and keep going…

He opened their eyes to peoples and lands that humbled them to their knees…

He often reminded them to forgive quickly, speak gently, and love fiercely...

He brought beauty from ashes time and time again...

Those kids had no clue where those trusses would take them…

And honestly, they still don't...

But as long as they go together...

With the Conductor in control...

The journey will be worth it...

The adventures will continue...

And they will carry on standing in amazed gratitude for this love and life.

Happy 24^th Anniversary Mr. Hepner...here's to 24 more.