When you are getting ready for any trip, there comes a point when you know you are ready to leave. Absolutely everything is packed, there's nothing more that needs to be done except get where you are going. But there is always something more that must be done. Sometimes it's double checking bags and tickets. Are the doors locked and is the flight on time? Did we pray before we left? Today we began our trip a little this way. Lena and I had absolutely everything packed. All our arrangements to get to the airport had been made weeks before and were confirmed just yesterday. We were ready to leave the country at a moment's notice, but first we needed to take the time to fast and pray. Today was the Day of Atonement, better known by some as Yom Kippur. It was a day to forsake all human pleasures that are perfectly fine on any other day. God instructed His people to afflict their souls in this day for 24 hours. From sunset to sunset we ate no food and drank no water. We did our best to think the thoughts we should have thought. Mind focused on the removal of sin and of the influences of the prince of the power of the air. Focused instead on the great plan of God and the liberty we have when we forsake all else and follow Him and His Son. In chapter 28 of the book bearing his name, Isaiah quoted God, writing, "Is this not the fast that I have chosen: To loose the bonds of wickedness, To undo the heavy burdens, To let the oppressed go free, And that you break every yoke?" Truly this day is the beginning of freedom for all of mankind. A day when the adversary will finally be put away and the whole earth can have its rest. When people can clearly hear the voice of God and know His ways. At that time there will be no question about what the truth is. We fasted and fellowshipped and were finally on our way. Thankfully our friends, Jim and Nancy Morgan, were able to drive us to the airport in Huntsville. It was the quietest airport either of us have ever been in. We broke the fast right before we boarded a tiny plane with sugary snacks and ice water. We plan on eating a real meal in Atlanta with the few hours we have there. Eventually we should be leaving American airspace and heading off on our next adventure. This will be my 33rd Feast of Tabernacles since I was born in the Springtime. Italy here we come! But not until we see Sweden first.