31 January 2007

New Life

Our time of “rest” is over and we are now back in Brazil. Our furlough was a success. We were blessed to be with so many of the people who support us in so many ways. Thank you all so much for feeding us, asking questions, and being excited about what we are doing for God’s kingdom in Salvador.
We were so glad to be around family and friends when we found out, “surprise,” our lives are about to change in less than nine months. That’s right, for those who have not talked with one of our family members, who are so excited, we are expecting in early August. What a change in thinking this has brought over us. We went for our first obstetrical appointment yesterday. Tomorrow are blood tests and others such things, and Friday is our first ultrasound. It is all becoming very real, very exciting, and scary at the same time.
While we were stateside, we were excited to hear of some blessed events occurring here in Salvador. On Sunday, December 17, our church had a picnic celebrating the birth of our Salvador (Savior). There we had 87 present for worship, and over 100 showed up to the Parkers’ home for the fun and devotional. The following Sunday, two of our young men were baptized. This brought many of their family to worship that morning, and after services, almost everyone present walked across the street to the beach for the baptisms in the ocean.
We are now trying to get back into the swing of things, though much has changed. Our building now has partitions for a children’s area, and offices, as well as air conditioners. Please pray that the things that need to be completed on our building will be taken care of soon.Thank you again for such a great reception back home. The love and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.

20 January 2007