Newsletter
January 7, 2009
Greetings and Happy New Year! I pray that the new year has brought you a fresh perspective for 2009 and a determination to live another year to the Glory of God! The start of a year always excites me as I consider the amazing opportunities that God will place in my path and the numerous occasions to grow through challenges. This new years has been one to remember as I have been spending it with my family in Togo, West Africa!
Harding University has finally decided that I have been in school long enough to deserve to graduate. This past December I completed my two degrees. The first is in Web Design Interactive Media and the second is in Vocational Ministry. Although it has been a long road, I have thoroughly appreciated the opportunity to study at Harding and all of the blessings that have come along with it. I have seen growth personally and spiritually, also I can even make a decent website or two! Both degrees will be a tremendous blessing to my future work in ministry.
My New Zealand preparations have really started to speed up. The past two months have been slower as I have needed to focus on finishing school. But, from here on out, it is all engines firing ahead! Last week I shipped most of me belongings to Auckland. They should be arriving in the next month or so. Thanks to the House to House church all of my shipping expenses were covered to the exact amount! The next two months will be spent raising support, visiting family and supporters, and making the last few preparations for my departure on the 28th of February.
Currently, I am still researching and brainstorming ideas to incorporate with the mission in New Zealand. It seems like God is continually placing wisdom and ministry ideas in my path which will help the work to be effective. Soon after my arrival I will be meeting with the elders at Otumoetai to work out specific strategy for 2009. We will also review the congregations vision for the next five years. Continue to pray as we seek ways to become Christ to not only the lost, but also His followers in Tauranga. Your ideas and wisdom are always appreciated so please feel free to share your thoughts!
Recently, I have been reading from a book called "Waking the Dead" by John Eldridge. The main focus of the the first few chapters has been concerning the "eyes of our hearts." He explains the radical perspective shift when we look at what is happening around us through the eyes of a transformed heart. We see the urgent need to make a difference for Christ in the lives of everyone we come in contact with. We see struggles or hardships not as personal attacks, but a spiritual battle with a spiritual perspective. May we continue to be inwardly renewed as we adjust our focus to that of Christ himself. May God bless you as you begin 2009!
September 27, 2008
Presently, I dont have much to report. Just working hard to stay focused in school and do fundraising. Check back later for more recent news and things that are happing in my life!