Emotinally Strung Up (whatever that means)

This is not a good time to be writing an update because Hannah leaves in a few hours to the U.S. and already my stomach is in knots. I’ve known for a long time that this morning would come, so why is it still hard? Anyway, it’s 6 a.m. and I figure I better write this now because I will probably be too emotionally strung up later to make any sense.

Do you know what Hannah did last night? Well, we were having a prayer time for her, when she hands me this personal letter with kind words about me that I don’t deserve. In it was a type written copy of the first three chapters of Ephesians, which she proceeds to recite from memory. You know the passage, with words like, “I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers…” and “I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being…” Now how can a father not be touched by that?

Hannah has been so helpful these past months of transition, sorting out our library, assisting Jonathan and Martha with their school work, and helping me manage the house. And, she’s been fun. On Monday, we went to one of our favorite “resort” places where we swam for several hours. They had this big slide thing that we must have gone down four dozen times, screaming with delight each time. Like Jan, Hannah has developed a marvelous sense of humor and an ability to relate well to just about anybody.

Now my little girl is off to college. Did I mention before that she’s already nearly half way through her second year by testing out of 41 college units? Oh, I did. Sorry, I guess I’m just so proud of her. I could go on and on talking about her, but you might be wanting to know what else is happening here. Well, let’s see…

Our weekly leadership training has been going very well, with each of the trainers involved in new church starts. Every Friday when we meet, there are stories of new believers and exciting developments. We have been distributing rice, food, and building materials to victims of the June 20 flood, the worst in Iloilo history. Hundreds lost their lives and many families are still without basic necessities. I’m still hearing stories of swirling waters, frantic moments, and daring rescues.

Martha and Hannah have helped in the relief efforts. Hannah was… oh, there I go again, talking about her. She leaves in just four hours. Oh, my. Pray for me, as I adjust to another bird out of the nest. Pray for Jonathan and Martha, as they grieve the departure of another sibling. They say this is the hardest part about being a missionary – watching your children leave and them being so far away. I think my heart is starting to get strung up. I better stop writing. Ahhhh, in less than four hours…