Embarkation

“The process of getting on your ship.” Oh yes, I (Joan) am learning a whole new language these days. Our 40^th anniversary trip is about to happen, and it has been a long and arduous journey to this point. Fighting for continued intimacy in our marriage, fighting for our kids’ health, fighting through the endless details of preparation – so that this dream trip can become a reality…

Many of you know our story and know that it hasn’t been smooth sailing, so you have given your blessing (“well-deserved,” you tell us) and encouragement. And for that I thank you and ask that you keep praying that “embarkation” will become reality – final countdown is on!

At the same time, I pray every morning for the persecuted church and often feel so undeserving of such luxuries when I compare myself to my brothers and sisters around the world who suffer for Christ. In Phil 1:13, Paul said that it was because of his chains that others could be bolder regarding their sharing the gospel of Christ. And that is one thing I want our whole family to be on this trip – an example of Christ’s love and righteousness. Pray that our love would abound more and more for each other, SO THAT, we would be filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes only through Christ Jesus.

Pray for…

#1 this boldness. Many have told us that, because of Matthew, everyone on the boat will know us. And yes, we are very aware that things like wheelchairs (seem like we have our own chains at times) cause our family to be obvious to all. As for Matthew’s role, he needs to make friends everywhere. Pray that his “no-filters boldness” can become opportunities to share the basis of our life and hope – the good news of Jesus.

#2 health, peace, sleep, and fun for us all.

#3 Peace for my dad who will have different surroundings while we are away and for my sister and brother-in-law who are taking on his care.

#4 Ron and I will have significant time to capture and celebrate the joy of our last 40 years and commit to seeing God work through us over the next years (hopefully many more) that God gives us together. 

Thank you!