Change in Plans

With our year of home assignment quickly drawing to a close, we have been busy praying and seeking council about when we should return to Papua New Guinea.  Several factors had us hesitant to return to PNG next month.  We requested an extension from our mission and were granted an extra 6 months!  This is a big answer to prayer. 

One of the reasons we are wanting to delay our return is to help Andrea’s mom as she continues to heal from her fall and broken arm.  She is doing great, but the healing process is slow.  And on top of this, a couple of weeks ago, her mom, Andrea’s grandmother, passed away at 97.  This has been a bitter sweet time for Andrea and her mom as they deal with the grief while also helping handle her estate.  Please pray for us in this. 

There are a few other factors that led to this decision.  Starting early next year our work permit and entry permits (visas) are up for renewal.  That means there will be several weeks (or months) when we could not enter PNG.  We are also in the process of renewing Joshua’s passport.  Taking a passport photo for a 4 year old is a challenge!

We would like to also have more time to visit with many of you, our supporters.  Our partnership development time has not really developed.  We are still hoping and praying that we can finish our road trip sometime in the Spring 2018.

While this 6 month extension is good news, it too is bitter sweet.  We miss our PNG home and can’t wait until we can get back.  Paul misses working on the Kodiak aircraft and helicopter.  The work there seems never ending and the workers are always few.  BUT we KNOW that God has us here for these coming months.  Pray that we be used by Him!

Our New Ride

When we started our home assignment we were graciously given the use of a car.  Since we are staying 6 months longer, we were in need of a different vehicle.  We “just happened” to stumble upon someone who was selling their mini-van.  While it needed work, it was a good price.  Paul has been busy getting it road worthy (Sales taxes is how much in Maryland?!?!) and we are now excited to have our first family mini-van.  (Well, everyone but Paul as it lacks the macho factor).

All this excitement brings extra expenses and at a time when our support is around 60%.  We ask that you join us in praying for this.  Recently Paul started working at a local airport which has him happily turning wrenches again and also bringing in some extra funds.  More importantly, pray Paul can be a witness to the folks there as we are confident that the Lord handed him this very flexible job opportunity.

Praise & Prayer Requests

• Praise: New-to-us 2008 mini-van!  Pray it serves us well.
• Praise: Paul’s job.  Pray he is a witness to his co-workers.
• Praise: Homeschooling is going well.  Still an adjustment but a lot of fun.
• Prayer: For Andrea’s mom as she continues to heal and grieve.
• Prayer: Our PNG co-workers — staff shortages and also good rest for those few carrying the load.
• Prayer: We are considering leading a Bible study (Stranger on the road to Emmaus) in the new year through our home church.