This month-long trip became a study in contrasts. Before landing in
Israel, a sandstorm diverted our flight to Cyprus for a few hours
resulting in a late arrival. Our first day in Egypt was followed by two
days of sandstorms when we could smell the sand in the air and
visibility was obscured. In contrast, we encountered significant snow
and cold weather in Jordan and France.
On
each field we were involved in counseling sessions with the leadership
teams. Our ministry of connecting people to people and people to
materials was also prominent, and we were able to get all material to
those who needed it without problems with customs. Our third objective
was to be an encouragement to those on the front lines of gospel
ministry. By observation and interaction we were able to get some sense
about what’s going on in these countries. All those teams we saw were
doing well, many in difficult circumstances. Our daughter and her
family have learned the language well enough to
go to school and conduct business in their new language. Egypt was
interesting. In spite of a sandstorm, many new assemblies are being
started and many are learning eternal truths. The Abbetts, our French
connection, are well integrated into the community and the work they
are carrying on. All the children seem to be flourishing as well.While away I was able to check email, but could not send anything
significant to update you because of safety concerns for our
fellowlaborers and the lack of computer access. I have not given you
any particular details because of security precautions.After dealing with Israeli shekels, Jordanian dinars, Egyptian
pounds, and European Euros, it was good to be back to dollars. In the
whole month, we moved every few nights, spending only 6 straight nights
in one place, so that it is good to be back in our own home. We are
still jet-lagged but getting over it. There is laundry to do, mail to
go through, phone calls to return, errands to run, and other business
to take care of that has made this email a few days late, but we do
appreciate your prayers on our behalf as to safety, health, and
opportunity to minister.Now we prepare for a state-side ministry in five different churches
and a two-week preaching and teaching time in Mexico next month. Please
remember us as we travel and speak in various locations that we will be
used of God to edify and encourage others.