As I sit here this morning in my easy chair with my sweet Cuppa tea, I can't believe this year of 2014 is almost coming to an end. The weather is quite chilly these days, perhaps with snow in the forecast. That is my hope and dream anyway to be here for a white Christmas.
The Christmas season has truly hit England, with "Christmas markets springing up everywhere." This is a time where the villagers as well as people from surrounding countries bring in their handmade items to sell. Interesting to see an assortment of foods, clothing, ornaments for Christmas and of course just the excitement alone for the holiday season. As I walk down the street, it's not surpassing to see Carolers on the corners, some dress in "Charles Dickens era" singing the Carols of old. Truly it's a scene taken out of the 1800's that is so joyous to see and experience.
The churches here in Wotter and Exeter are growing with new people coming, filling up each week with young and old. I am continually blessed in all God is doing. Yes, we have spiritual warfare continually in this dark land, but God's Glory continues to shine as we are faithful to proclaim His Word. We will have our first baptism in Exeter in a few weeks. As the church use to be an old car repair garage back in the early 1900's, the baptism is the hole where they would step down into the pit and change the oil in cars. They did a nice job concreting in the area and putting in a drain. The water comes out from the boiler but when it hits the cold concrete it cools down to the right temperature. It will be a joyous occasion to behold seeing those believers go through the waters of baptism!
The ladies' bible study has just finished for the autumn season. The ladies' hearts were touched each week as we gathered to pray and share God's truths from His Word. Deeper friendships have been formed, and an overall excitement for the things of God have begun to develop in these ladies, blessing my heart so much. The discipleship study for the Uni girls is continuing to go well also. They are so excited to not only be strengthened in God's Word, but to also be able to disciple the young believers in the fellowship from what they have been taught. It's been such a joy watching them grow into a heart to serve, to love and to be used by God.
Solomon's Porch is continuing to grow with now almost 25 in our small home every fort nite (British for 'two weeks'). With such a buzz, sharing and fellowshipping in Christ, these kids have found a home away from home. Their annual Christmas party was here this year with a "silly Christmas jumper (sweater)" theme. It's a joy to see their smiles as they gather for an evening of fun and laughter, leaving their intense studies behind. Bob and I introduced them to the "white elephant gift exchange".
In the course of this busy season, Bob and I were invited to share up in Northern Italy. I spoke at the ladies annual Christmas tea in Montebelluna, and Bob spoke at the church service at Calvary Chapel Montebelluna and Calvary Chapel Feltre. What a blessing to be able to spend time with these great fellowships and the special friends we have known!
All in all, the season of giving is well underway here in England. With two churches, it blesses my heart to see the brethren stepping up to serve. From putting out signs each week, cleaning up, greeting, to serving biscuits and tea, our fellowship has truly brought forth that Christ-like love for all to see. As we put a smile on our faces, our prayer is that we can be that light on a hill. I am reminded of the scripture found in Matthew 5 which says, "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden...Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in Heaven." (Matt 5:14-16)
This is our prayer in a land so filled with darkness and gloom. May it be yours also.
As this Christmas season approaches, let us remember it's not about "presents" but about "His presence" shining forth in our lives for all to see.
Thank you for your continued prayers, as He is so faithful. We will be back in the states visiting our children in January, so hope to see many of you and give you an English cuddle.May God bless you, strengthen you and fill you this Christmas season with His joy and peace, and may God give you more and more mercy, peace, and love.
Merry Christmas from our house to yours.
*raising up spiritual leaders among the British
*balancing ministry needs with personal marriage time
*my hysterectomy surgery has been postponed until after February
*Furlough from January 8 - February 3rd
*discipleship with University girls
