Springtime has finally come in the land of England. With the daffodils, crocuses, and snow drops peering through the soil, the country seems to take on an anticipation of a newness to come. All throughout the land you see the newborn lambs snuggling close to their mums in the fields nearby. With a spring in their steps, I love to see how they frolic around, seeing new things, but never going too far away from the sheepfold. The mama sheep is always having her eye on them to keep them safe from harm's way.
This so reminds me how our God holds us close to his heart, allowing us to be free to walk by faith into those new areas. As His eye is always upon us, He continuously assures us as He leads us and guides us along the way in which we should go. Psalm 32:8 so clearly states, "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye."
It's been one year since we came to Devon England to live. There are no words to express my love for this land and the British people. Looking back, the Lord truly has guided our way to our destination. He has provided, not only our physical needs, but such sweet brethren with servant's hearts to learn and serve in the church here. Upon arriving to Exeter, we really had no expectations but to care for this small flock. Being faithful each week to what He had called us to do, Bob and I saw a genuine love for Jesus, hearts hungering for the simplicity of the Word, and through that the church has grown.
They say, "healthy sheep produce sheep". In like manner within this past year we are blessed to see these sheep in our flock growing to be strong and healthy in the faith. Yes, we are all daily growing as trials come and go. But this privilege to share the simplicity of the Gospel has truly been an anchor for our souls, and a joy to our hearts.
As we look ahead to the next year, our goal is to continue to disciple others, teaching the Word and letting our light shine in all we say and do. Psalm 105:1-6 "Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim His greatness. Let the whole world know what He has done. Sing to Him; yes, sing His praises. Tell everyone about His wonderful deeds. Exalt in His holy name; rejoice, you who worship the Lord. Search for the Lord and for His strength; continually seek Him. Remember the wonders He has performed, His miracles and the rulings He has given, you...His chosen ones."
The church in Wotter is becoming more and more of a light to the community. We have started Thursday teas in the morning for the people using the surgery center and post office which are only open twice a week for the community. The villagers are beginning to know us, and continually tell stories about the people who once passed through these church doors. With opportunities to pray, and sometimes to comfort, along with serving them hot tea and biscuits, it's been such a blessing in reaching out and proclaiming the name of Jesus. 1 John 3:18 "My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth", and that is what we have done. A simple task, but a huge blessing to behold!
The church in Exeter is a blessing as well. Several international students from Asia have begun attending. They are Christians and sooo hungry to study God's word. We are excited and love to give out hugs each week. Bob and I have truly become their mum and dad, a home away from home, which has not only comforted and blessed their hearts but ours as well. Solomon's Porch is an outreach where we offer the Uni Students not only physical food, but spiritual food. This has been their time of group discipleship and fellowship. The time of hanging out with a cuppa tea has been such a blessing. Who knows where that will go this next year.
All in all, the Lord has been my strength and joy as I have served here in Devon, England. Although it is much different than America, my heart is so glad to be His servant in tasting that He is so good. Though there are times of loneliness, and times of pouring out endlessly, He is always faithful to fill me up and restore me once again with joy to serve. Indeed my heart is filled with thanks.
Ephesians 4:20 "Now all glory to God, who is able, through His mighty power at work within us, to accomplish more than we could ask or think."
Prayer Requests:
**Bob pass driving test on March 21
**Wisdom in ongoing discipleship and training
**New facility for Calvary Exeter near the University
**Upcoming conferences and teachings
**Wisdom in ministering effectively to Uni students coming our way
**Tea/biscuit outreach to community in Wotter
**Balance in family time and ministry time
