July 2021 Prayer Letter

As we sit here writing this update, we are so filled with gratitude. God has been abundantly faithful, and we are so very thankful. The newest member of our family, Benjamin Henry, entered our lives on June 11^th, and we couldn’t be more thrilled. As we anticipated his birth, there were quite a few unknowns—we did not know if he was a boy or girl, how the rest of the family would respond to him, or when he would even come. But we looked ahead with joyful anticipation. And as soon as he was born, we were all so full of rejoicing (even our daughter who was set on having a little sister). When we came home from the hospital we were welcomed in with balloons and sidewalk chalk and the sweetest little five faces waiting to meet their newest brother. As a parent there cannot be much more that fills your heart than moments like this. Thank you for each of your prayers, we are so very thankful!

As we reflect on that time of waiting (sometimes not so patiently – especially for Mom as the due date came and went and went and went) it reminds us so much of the rest of life and ministry. There are so many unknowns, so many questions that we have yet to get answered. Those times of anticipation and waiting can be challenging and overwhelming, but even in the waiting, God is there. We do not have to have the answers or all the details. And we know that just like when Benjamin finally made his appearance, and we were all so filled with joy, God is so full of joy when we rest in him and trust him during the times of waiting. Now, we have a time of waiting on paperwork to return, and a time of waiting for those we serve to come to know Jesus. And just like with Benjamin, we know that there will be great rejoicing and we long for the day when our friends and neighbors will enter into the family of God.