Anticipation of Christmas and Eternity
She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus,
for he will save his people from their sins. Matthew 1:21
Here it is…Christmas again. Much of what we hear in Christmas stories, sermons, and conversation is in anticipation. Anticipation of the baby Jesus, the gifts to receive and be given, seeing our loved ones for the holidays… and the list goes on. Just think about all the things you anticipate this time of year. For me, I especially anticipate my future eternity with God in His glory. How someday, all who believe that the little baby Jesus came to take on the sins of the world would be sacrificed for the wrongs we commit and defeat death. All so that we will not receive the spiritual death we deserve, but live eternally with God. This is why we have Christmas. This is the REAL reason for the season.
Also, I write this note in great anticipation of the year to come. Praying that my support goal will be reached this month so that I can make solid plans to be released to the field and serve those who my God loves so dearly. If you feel led, please click here to pledge your support or give a one-time gift. In this I pray that my next “note” is sent from Mexico.
And… I look back on the past year in great appreciation. Appreciation of all of my supporters (financially and through prayer/encouragement). You have no idea how you speak to me through gifts, notes and just being there at the right time. This has been a crazy year (anyone who has planned a daughter’s wedding is acutely aware of this). My family of supporters is amazing and I appreciate you so much!
I hope you enjoy our family photo. It has become a Thanksgiving tradition and it is always a challenge using the timer on the camera!
Praying you all have a beautiful Christmas… and that you spend it sharing about why that little baby came to this world. And love those around you like “crazy”.
Quick Review of 2013
Natalie has a job with some really great people in Corpus Christi and is rebuilding her life after a difficult couple of years. I praise God for her sweet spirit and resilience.
Amanda graduated from Dallas Baptist University, landed her dream job, and married her high school sweetheart (Casey) all in a matter of months. Lot’s of changes and exciting things lay ahead for them in their new lives together.
Joe began classes at the Dallas Art Institute to pursue a Bachelor’s in Film and Production. He is thriving in this environment and is setting goals and seeking God’s leading for his life. He also works part-time at a coffee shop (see below).
My year has been full of Amanda’s wedding plans, church ministries, and support raising for Mexico… not to mention working to support life here in the states. I still do some graphic design/web design/photography. Anything to pay the bills. Plus (as I mentioned in my last update)… my family opened a coffee shop, Side Street Coffee, on the square in Kaufman. It is a place for the community to meet and work while enjoying HOPE Coffee and free wi-fi. Of course, the profits from the coffee go back to the people of Honduras (for more info, go to their website here.). If you are in the area, be sure to stop in!
