the future

Things are coming together for us as far as our ministry. These past few months have been survey months, to make a careful evaluation of who is working where and how we can best fit in. It has been hard not being able to pour ourselves into a specific ministry right away, but we were frequently encouraged that doing a survey first was an excellent idea. Now, as the "who, what & where" is coming together, I am so thankful we did the survey first. We will be working with several other churches and organizations in the community to help in the effort to evangelize, disciple, and teach new believers in the tsunami-hit zone. Our ultimate goal is to see reproducing churches planted, not by us, but by the Thais themselves. It has been exciting to see how God has given us the relationships we have needed to network together with other believers in this area that have a similar vision, so we can effectively help each other. Kennedy is organizing a church-multiplication seminar for this August, for key Chrisitan Thai leaders in the community.
Our only concern is that we will not be allowed to return unless we raise a minimum of $600 a month! Rats! That is one bummer about our new mission organization, we are required to raise more support. The insurance program they use is more expensive, and so is our housing here in Southern Thailand. We know that if God wants us back here, He will provide it, like He has always provided for us these past 7 years. There is something wonderful about living by faith, knowing that you must wait upon the Lord to do something, it is such a faith-builder. When we don't need Him, He doesn't have the opportunity to show us His love and care for us by answering our prayers for His intervention. In countless ways, through the years, He has answered our prayers. When we are walking in step with His will, I believe He delights in giving us the desires of our hearts. Today, our desire is a speedy return to Thailand. We will see if it is God's desire, too.
Poppy and Jasper often say, "Wouldn't it be wonderful if we didn't have to use money?" and, "Mommy! Are you sure we can afford that?"
What great kids I have, so funny & cute.