Morning Reflections and a Slow Start
After walking over ten miles through Washington, D.C. the day before, the three of us—Dave, Sammy, and I—slept like rocks. It’s amazing how a full day of sightseeing helps you rest well!
We woke up refreshed, packed our bags, and spent a quiet morning sipping coffee and preparing for the flight. I called Pastor Prince in Ghana and asked him to help us arrange transportation from the airport to the Ruckmans’ home. Within minutes, he texted back: “I’ve got a van and driver ready.” What a blessing to start the day with everything falling into place.
A Southern Breakfast to Remember
Before heading to the airport, we stopped at Honey & Milk Biscuit and Southern Eatery for breakfast. The food was delicious—fresh, flavorful, and clearly made with pride.
Moments like this remind me how good God is in the details. Even something as simple as a well-cooked meal becomes a little taste of His care and provision.
Airport Adventures: Check-In and Chatting
We made a few last-minute stops for essentials, then returned the rental car and took the shuttle to Dulles Airport.
At check-in, Dave and Sammy breezed through TSA PreCheck, while I joined the regular line. Surprisingly, my line moved faster, and I made it to the gate before they did! We laughed about it later—apparently, I “fast-tracked” for once.
While waiting to board, we struck up conversations with fellow travelers. One man shared that he was going to Ghana for two months to see if God might be leading him to move there permanently. Two ladies from Ghana sat nearby, nodding and smiling as we talked.
Later, the man mentioned he was a Catholic priest, and we had a wonderful conversation about our faith.
A Race Against Time
Just as everything seemed to be going smoothly, I got a call from Gilbert—his flight was delayed. Our hearts sank a little. It was going to be close.
I told him, “Pray and run!” and then called Laura and the family to pray too. Boarding began, and still no Gilbert. Then came the dreaded announcement: “The gate is closed.”
Only two minutes later, Gilbert arrived—along with a few other passengers. One man shouted that he was transporting human organs for a life-saving surgery in Accra! The pilot wanted to reopen the doors, and for a moment, it looked like they would. But then, the airline manager decided otherwise, and the doors stayed shut.
Our hopes dropped, but we trusted that God had a plan.
Faith in the Delay
Because the flight had Wi-Fi texting, we stayed in touch. Gilbert was calm—he’d received a hotel and meal voucher and had been rebooked for the next day’s flight.
We worked out a plan: after landing, he would take a VIP bus from Accra to Takoradi to meet us.
As I write this from my seat at 35,000 feet, we’re about an hour and a half from landing. The flight has been smooth, breakfast is on the way, and my heart is full of gratitude.
God’s timing is always perfect. Even when doors close—literally—He’s still in control.
Looking Ahead: Arrival in Ghana
By the time we touch down in Accra, our hearts will be set on what’s next: reconnecting with old friends, serving alongside the Ruckmans, and sharing the Gospel across Ghana.
It’s humbling to see how God weaves every moment together—from doctor’s appointments and healthy progress to airport prayers and travel delays. Every detail points back to His faithfulness.
“A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.” – Proverbs 16:9
✈️ Follow the Journey
If you’d like to keep up with our travels and ministry updates from Ghana, here’s how you can connect:
- ✉️ Join our email list for updates and prayer requests
- 📘 Buy That’s My Goat — true stories of missions, miracles, and laughter
- ☕ Order coffee at HOTS Coffee to support our mission
- 🌿 Stay at Bland Lake Hideaway for peaceful rest with a purpose
- ⛪ Central Baptist Church — our sending church and ministry partner
- ✍️ About Joe Consford — the story behind the stories
Hello dear Consfords. This is Omar from IBF Lewisville. I pray yall have a blessed year in Africa. Your faithfulness is very inspiring to me. Love yall and take care.