I have been awake since 2:30 AM. Now it’s nearly 4:30, and I am up and around as if it were mid-morning. This is our last full day in Cyprus… until next year. It will be a busy day of packing, cleaning, and saying good-bye to dear friends in the community.

In a couple of hours, the sun will break upon the mountains and valley in rose and gold hues; and I will take a few moments to savor its beauty.  The day will be typical for most living here. But for me, it will be special. I will be soaking in all the memory I can absorb; so on rainy or emotionally lean days ahead, I can draw from its rich storehouse of history, beauty, warmth, hospitality, and encouragement.

Cypriots are known for their hospitality, and biblically Cyprus is known to be the land of encouragement because Barnabas hailed from here. He was an encourager.

We have traveled from mountains to sea.

We have filled our bellies…

our souls…

and our spirits.

I’d say yes, we’re encouraged… thanks to the wonderful community that has given to us so generously and lovingly. You put the sparkle in Cyprus!