Returning to the Philippines

My flight to the Philippines leaves this Saturday, Nov. 2.  I’m eager to renew my friendships with my Filipino friends and see what God has been doing in their lives and ministry this past year.  Just yesterday I received an email from Bro. Danny, our Community Developer, that he will be baptizing 5 new believers this weekend.

I have rented an apartment for one month which will give me time to search for a more permanent place to stay.  I will also have to get a new cell phone number.  My mission is sending a 2008 Toyota cab truck for me to use.  Right now, it’s starting to get cold here in Texas, so I’m glad to be returning to the tropics and warm weather.

As for family updates, Sara has bought one side of a duplex, located just a couple of miles from David.  Philip, Martha, Sara, David, Andrea, and I have been working hard the past few weeks preparing the place.  We’ve had to sand and paint the ceiling, paint the walls, level the flooring, install new wood flooring upstairs, replace electrical outlet and switches, and other sundry things. 

But we are all excited that Sara finally has her own place and doesn’t have to rent anymore.

Philip and Martha will stay with Sara until Philip finds a more permanent job instead of the contractual work he does now.  Philip is quite the handyman, so he will continue to help Sara fix up the place.  Martha is still praying about what the Lord would have her do next.  She and Philip will spend Christmas in Israel where Philip's parents continue to serve.  It’s been a big treat to have them here with me in the mission house, along with Sara.

Grandchild #2, Amy, is due around Dec. 10.  David and Andrea are preparing for her.  Christy gets more charming each day.  I will miss her.  David’s new job that he started this past summer is going very well.  The pay is great and he gets to work from home every Monday and Friday.  It’s less pressure than his previous jobs, which makes him and Andrea both happy!

Jonathan has also begun a new job working for Raytheon, a major government contractor.  He’s still being trained for his position but feels positive with what he will be doing and with his work environment.  Earlier this month I helped him move to a new apartment where he will be living by himself, close to his job.  He and David have been doing Bible study together every Saturday afternoon.

Last week I visited with Hannah and Daniel at their place in central Texas.  I also spent some time with Hannah’s staff and volunteers at the Sauer-Bechmann Farm that Hannah manages.  They all gave glowing reports about Hannah’s leadership.  They all love her a lot.  Me, too! 

So, it’s been a good furlough, but I’m eager to return to the ministry the Lord has blessed me with.  I count it a privilege to serve our Lord and King for however many days He gives me.  It gives me great peace to know I can entrust all things into His loving hands.  May He be glorified in all we do.