These are very significant days for the Hatton family here in Papua New Guinea and elsewhere. Benjamin’s Dad has been readmitted to the hospital as of 5pm, March 21st, for more surgery. An abscess has formed on James’ liver and is growing despite antibiotics, so the doctor is going to do surgery immediately to drain the infection. Please join us in praying for James and Lisa as they enter yet another chapter of this trial.
Pray that they would continue on with an eternal perspective and that they would be successful in thinking God’s thoughts after Him. Speaking with my Dad recently he mentioned how difficult it has become to concentrate and focus his mind when he is reading the Word. Can you pray for a special clarity for James in his mind and heart as he endures this procedure, so that he can be strengthened in his spirit while his body is ailing. Pray also for Lisa, that she will know the sufficient grace of God as she ministers to James.
This is difficult news for us to process especially during this very intense time of team building and strategizing that we are in the midst of presently. We have been meeting each day with the Allen’s and the Parry’s working to determine which people group we will be ministering to, as well as building a church planting strategy. We have had to work hard to make progress in these meetings but have been able to do so. It has been a challenge to juggle the domestic needs and remain sharp mentally and spiritually! Adding to this the recent news of James’ struggling health reminds us of just how much we need your prayers!
We are asking the Lord, daily, for direction and clarity in regards to which people group to begin ministry with. We still need some important information to be able to make this decision. Can you pray with us that this information would come in very soon so that we can make this decision. We are also praying that the Lord would help us to talk through all the necessary strategy points expediently and remain united. We are so thankful for this time that we have as a team to discuss and make plans. We know that every minute is pure gold and we want to make each one count. Picture Below – Our team meeting with the Literacy Consultants who will help us to teach tribal people to read and write in their own language.
Thank you for praying with us and for supporting us in this ministry. The Lord continues to encourage our hearts with the way that He is making provision for us, especially in regards to our House Building Project. God’s timing is perfect and God has used many of you to demonstrate to us His limitless generosity. Some of you have asked us what still remains on our needs list. There are still a few items that we are trusting the Lord to provide – a radio for communication with our support team, some basic tools (cordless drill, skill saw…), lumber for building furniture, plywood for interior walls and cabinets, and fasteners (nails, screws, hinges etc). If you are interested in giving toward this project click on the GIVE tab above for all the information you will need.
Benjamin and Missy Hatton