I love the gospel of Mark. Yes, the gospel of John is probably my actual favorite of the four, but I love Mark. I especially love Jesus’ first words in the entire book:
“The time has come. . . The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!” (Mark 1:15)
I love those words, “the kingdom of God is near.” I love that we are going to proclaim those words all over the plains and mountains and valleys of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. I absolutely love that. But right now, I love it even more that the kingdom of God is near here.
I stepped back and looked around this afternoon as we were on the field painting our team banner, and it was one of those moments where God catches you off guard. All fourteen team members of Expedition 2 were gathered around our banner, each one throwing out ideas or grabbing paint. Soon enough, people were sticking their hands in and finger painting all over the canvas. Those not painting were standing close by offering suggestions or entertainment, and everyone seemed to be involved, affirming others’ ideas and encouraging each other. I don’t know how to describe it or exactly what it was, but it was beautiful. We all came together over something as simple as a banner. Yesterday, Expeditions 1 and 2 both kind of dominated a team dance competition. Our interaction with each other had been great so far. It’s been amazing to see how our group has been so willing, so honest, and so open with each other so soon.
Basically, I love my team. I love how we are all so different from each other (but really, it’s kinda crazy). I love how real everyone is. I love even the little pieces that I have been blessed to hear of everyone’s heart and story and the how and why of their journeys here. I love that we are all willing to admit we’re a bit messy, in more ways than the literal. I love the beginnings of unity that we’re already being blessed with. I love our leaders. I love that God loves me enough to put me with a team like this. The kingdom of God is near, and I see it in them. And it gets me really freaking excited… Because I know that bringing Kingdom is what we are born for. So yes, the time has come. The kingdom of God is near. And Africa? Get ready. Cause we’re about to bring it to you.
