Seven-and-a-half months is a long time. That’s how long we waited to see our girl. We planned to meet her in Romania, along with 18 of her fellow missionaries and their parents. If you are reading this blog, then you know she’s been on the World Race since October 5th…and her mother and I were counting the days until we could see our oldest, face to face, to see for ourselves what the Lord has been doing in her life. Hearing the stories of her adventures, ministry, and spiritual growth (via WhatsApp video calls) has been awesome, no question, and we have never been more grateful for technology! But being able to hug her, hold her hand, and look into those beautiful blue eyes, in person, was what Mommie and Daddy needed. This Parent Vision Trip (PVT) afforded us that opportunity, and it did not disappoint. We experienced so many God-moments, right from the start.
When we arrived in Bucharest, Rene’ and I were searching for the hotel’s airport shuttle but were having a difficult time finding it. We were standing outside the terminal, discussing what we should do, and this lady in front of us turns around and says, “I know you! You are Re’s parents!!” It was Hailey Huffman’s mom and dad, Cindy and Danny Huffman—Hailey and Re’ have become like sisters during their time together on the Race. From that moment on, we were fast friends! We stayed in the same host home, we prayed together, and we shared time with our girls. PVT would not have been the same without them. And that was the shared testimony of all of the parents at PVT: relationships were formed, instantaneously. Total strangers, yet family. Anticipating each other’s needs. A beautiful picture of community…exactly what the Body of Christ should be.
Then, there were these Racers. Oh, my! World-changers, each one. We saw the gifts of the Spirit released in these young people: in service, in worship, in prayer. Gifts of evangelism, administration, music, prophecy, and so much more! As parents, we could not be prouder of our daughter, Re’. She poured out herself as she led us into the presence of the Father. Her and her Baby Taylor (guitar), running into His arms, and taking us along for the journey. My daddy’s heart was bursting with joy. Amazed at the goodness of our God. A beautiful picture of passion…exactly what this generation of Christ-followers adds to the Body of Christ.
Hope Church, the ministry we worked with in Draganesti-Olt, was another God-appointment (for us all). Raul Costea and his team were such amazing hosts for our PVT experience! Vision, compassion, service. We witnessed first-hand how they love the people of Romania, and how determined they are to bring souls into the Kingdom of God; a testimony that was inspiring, humbling, and convicting. When we did kids ministry in the park, they were translating, providing direction, and loving on every single child. No spectators, no delegators. They were fully engaged participators. Regardless of the activity or event. Additionally, every PVT meal was prepared by hand for us. Breakfast every morning, lunch in the afternoon, and dinner in the evening. Hot, fresh food. So thoughtful and intentional. A beautiful picture of commitment…exactly what the Body of Christ should aspire to.
In preparation for the trip, we were told to write a blessing for our Racer. There would be a time set aside to share those written affirmations with our sons and daughters. Both Rene’ and I had ours ready to share when the opportunity presented itself. What we didn’t know was that our children were going to do the same…In a moving and Spirit-filled atmosphere, they had planned a special ceremony, where each Racer prayed for and blessed their parents! Tears were flowing, hearts were softened, and some brokenness was healed. A beautiful picture of honor…exactly the kind of foundation the Body of Christ needs.
AIM’s Parent Vision Trip is definitely an “eye opening” experience. In more ways than I could possibly explain. We were challenged and changed. I wouldn’t trade those moments with our daughter for anything. It was definitely worth the trip!!
Blessings from Texas,
Ronnie Hollingsworth
