Day 7--London

The end is in sight but there is still much to do and see. We are all getting travel weary, but the sights in London are invigorating and helps give us the motivation to keep pressing on despite how tired we are all feeling. What was nice today, though, is that we have a lighter schedule before the final push through our last day. Even better is the fact that the weather is finally cooperating a bit with no rain and even some sun, making today a lovely day.

We started the day off at the British Museum (after a ride on the tube...we're becoming pros at it).

 

This is an impressive building that has way too many treasures for us to adequately take in, but since our students study as much British history as they do British literature with Mrs. Wyllie, the students took full advantage of looking through the rooms containing artifacts from the the many eras in England's past including the Romans, the Anglo-Saxxons, and Vikings. There is even an interesting exhibit showcasing eight mummies from Egypt, highlighting the many archeological finds that the English are responsible for.  All in all, the museum was a nice way to spend two hours on a Sunday.

From there it was back on the tube for a quick ride to Covent Gardens, a popular shopping district in London that's not too far from Piccadilly Circus. With tomorrow being a very busy day for us, this is really the students last chance to do any shopping on the trip. Many were able to find some souvenirs as well as some other items at popular stores that can only be shopped at in England. This too was a nice way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

Before we headed off to the Metropolitan Tabernacle (the church Spurgeon founded), we stopped for dinner. This provided us with another chance to just sit and enjoy each other's company. It has been so nice to watch how well our students interact with each other as well as with the adults on the trip. It should also be noted that our boys (all 7 of them) have been absolute gentlemen, loading and unloading luggage at each destination for the girls.  And, now that we are in London, they have each taken charge of a couple girls to ensure that they are looked after while we walk around London and get on and off the tube. Our girls are definitely in good hands.

One of the challenges on a trip like this is finding a place to worship on the Lord's Day.  We were able to visit the Metropolitan Tabernacle last year, but with us being in London on Sunday, we were able to attend their evening service. While it was a conservative service that was a bit different than what we may be used to, the scripture reading and hymns, along with the message, were a blessing.  The message from John 12 reminded us that just as Christ gave up his life for us, we must too give up our old life in exchange for the new life that He has to offer us if we just receive it. 

Afterwards the students had a chance to visit the bookshop to purchase some of the wonderful books by Spurgeon. These books are definitely the "souvenirs" that have value eternally, and it is a blessing to watch the students eager to purchase them.

Our evening ended with a ride on the London Eye. It is a half-hour “ferris-wheel” ride that takes us nearly 450 feet up into the air and provides an incredible view of the whole city.

Please continue to pray for us as we finish out our last day in England tomorrow.  While we are looking forward to seeing our families again, we are sad that this trip we have been looking forward to for so long is about over.  We have thoroughly enjoyed our time here!  Tomorrow will be a full day of activities, and we are looking forward to sharing all our memories with you!