Safe on the ground after back-to-back ministry support flights, Robin and I carefully rolled open four of the 30-ft tall hangar doors, each weighing 400lbs. With the hangar open, we broke a sweat wrestling a 3600 lb. aircraft into position by hand. After a moment to catch our breath, we began to clean, check, inventory, refuel, and cover the aircraft. This is all part of the post-flight routine, so that the plane will be ready to fly again on short notice. The last thing was to roll each hangar door section back in place, securing the hangar. We’ve learned by trial and error the personality and quirks of each section as we carefully coax it along its path.  After much practice, we can generally do it without too much difficulty. Of course, it would be the final section that has the most rebellious personality, needing only the slightest provocation to buck its way off the rails. On this day that door section caught on something in its track and bucked both upper bearings off the rail. As we strained to keep the door upright while trying to formulate a plan, a random puff of wind nudged the door just a degree from vertical. Feeling game, I thought to myself, “I can save this!” However, the weight continued to shift, and in an instant, survival became the dominant instinct. Thankfully, we were able to get clear, avoiding the mass and momentum of the door on its way down. I tell you the truth when I say missionary life is not for the faint of heart! But it could be the life for you. Are you game? Do you thrive on adventure and challenge? Robin and I love what we do and wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (James 1:2-4) 

SGSP Aviation Ministries, Inc is looking for volunteers and/or missionaries gifted in administration, communication, and aviation. If you would like to use your gifting to build the Kingdom of God by serving from home or the mission field of Guatemala, let’s talk. See our blog at www.sgsp-aviation.org or email admin@sgsp-aviation.org