TIME
Where has 2009 gone? Where has the decade gone? As time seems to pass so quickly, we are reminded of James 4:14, which says,
“Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life?
You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.”
And as we realize how quickly life passes, we also think about how often we lose focus of what is really important in life. In our full, busy days dealing with so many issues calling for our attention, it is easy to get caught up in the cares of this world and forget to follow Colossians 3:2, which says,
“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
We need to remember to ask ourselves, “In the light of eternity, what is really important here?” We pray that God will continually teach us this truth.
SCHOOL
The first semester of this school year finished with a Music Program on December 10th and Open House on December 11th. During our month-long break we continued to work on school issues, while trying to find time for some personal needs and a little R&R. We just began the new semester on January 11th and are looking forward to what God has in store for us!
HEALTH
We’ve had some extra health issues recently with Bethany and Melanie both needing some chiropractic treatments. Bethany has had improvement, but Melanie continues with persistent lower back pain, as well as a brachial plexus problem that she’s had for 3 years. Melanie is also awaiting surgery to remove a spot of skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma) from her right shoulder. It’s already been 6 months since we started looking after this, so we’d appreciate your prayers that it would get taken care of soon.
GOD’S PROVISION
As always, God faithfully meets our needs. Even though we’ve lost some financial supporters this year, the Lord has recently blessed us with several extra one-time gifts, enabling us to put more towards some outstanding bills (medical and travel). We are confident God will continue to provide for us in His way and His time, including these extra medical expenses.
Once again, THANK YOU for being such an important part of our ministry! We are very grateful for your support—whether it be through prayers, financial gifts, letters, e-mails, or love and interest in us.