Each morning as I look upon this city, I see new blossoms coming forth. Various daffodils, tulips, snowdrops--but there also seems to be a freshness in the air that spring as sprung! After a seemingly long, cold winter, the sun was a welcomed sight. And with this in mind, I had an opportunity to help feed and hold new baby lambs on my friend's farm a few weeks back. For as long as I have been in England, I have always wanted to experience this "sheep experience"; and truly what a joy to behold!🐏🐏. As I held that small baby lamb, literally feeling it's heartbeat (as its mother stood watching close by), I couldn't help but think of how our Lord holds us dear and close to His heart. Each one of us are special in His eyes, just as Psalm 23 declares the Lord's love for us.
I have started a bible study on Wednesday mornings out in a little village just beyond Exeter. Though it is small, what a joy to be able to study God's Word with these ladies. The times of sharing, prayer and fellowship have been so special as we see each week God's faithfulness in answering prayers and filling us up with his goodness and joy.
I had an opportunity to spend 5 days in Holland with my girlfriend from the states last week. What a refreshing "girlie time" we had as we laughed, cried, and prayed together! She flew to Holland from the states, I flew to Holland from Bristol, England, and meeting together we spent a great time seeing windmills, museums, and of course the famous Keukenhof gardens.🌷🌷 We literally got to see a little touch of heaven as we tipped-toed thru the tulips! I was so blessed and refreshed to be able to spend this time with my friend and also blessed with Bob who allowed me to go. As my friend and I said our goodbyes going our separate ways we will always hold those memories in our hearts of this special place we got to share in God's blessings.
The University students are feverishly studying for exams during this time. Baking and cooking will soon begin as we furnish each of them with cookies wrapped up with a scripture. That little boost of God's love of encouragement seems to help them through. We made out a calendar for prayer for each day of their exams. As we pray, God is faithful to meet them and be glorified every step of the way.
The Lord tells us in 1 John to love not in word only but in deed and in truth. Loving our neighbors ...❤️ The Lord has given me several opportunitys lately to "love my neighbor". As in the gospels, Jesus clearly stated the importance to this statement. Things such as doctor appointments, meals, grocery shopping and having them in for merely a "cup of tea" have been just a few on my love list. And what a blessing it has been serving my neighborhood in this way and to let the love of Jesus shine upon their hearts as I serve. As friendships have been built, we have exchanged those famous English recipes...for they love to cook. In my trying to cook their way, I have not only expanded my vocabulary in words such as caster sugar, leeks, black treacle, but have grown into loving to cook the "English" way. It been lots of fun!🍵🍰🍝
May the Lord continue to fill you, bless you and strengthen you as you look to Jesus each and everyday. And may He open doors for you also to let His love shine through you in special ways as you serve.
Psalm 36:9 - For you are the fountain to life, the light by which we see.
Prayer Requests:
***British interns for our church to help with worship, maintenance and administration
***Continual opportunities to reach my community
***More Bible studies in the surrounding villages
