Last February at this time we were just getting back from 5 days in Edmonton. What a blessing it was to be able to actually be there, to pray, seek the LORD and get a feel for the city. We were able to meet a couple who are praying for a Calvary Chapel to be planted there, and since that time, we have received e-mails from several more people who are also looking for a Bible-teaching church home.
Though we had hoped to be in Canada in 2010, our plans were not including the newest member of our family, who is now over 3 months old and winning our hearts more and more as the days and weeks pass. The LORD knew our family would be expanding and He mercifully kept us here where we are, close to our church family and the grandparents, during a time when much moral support and practical help have been needed. This last six months or so has also been a time of growth and further rooting of the vision we originally had for church-planting in Edmonton.
One great blessing was that we were able to visit two other congregations and meet the precious people at Calvary Chapel Flathead Valley, MT and Calvary Chapel Salmon, ID. Another plus to remaining has been the beginning of a home fellowship in our home. It is such a joy to be able to serve the LORD together again in ministry, after 3 years of opportunities to serve separately. We truly enjoyed ministering together in Serbia and look forward to what's ahead. In fact, all four members of our family are enjoying this home study.
Lastly, we were incredibly blessed to be enabled to go to the Missions Conference last month. The spiritual warfare surrounding our trip was non-stop, but the LORD gave us determination, endurance, and joy which greatly strengthened us. The messages at the conference fit into our hearts in what seemed to be specially prepared spaces. The fellowship with other missionaries, pastors and people like us preparing to go out left us built up and encouraged; we are still drawing from those times of fellowship and prayer.
As we consider our current situation, we see by faith the LORD's hand moving on our behalf to clear the path North for us. We are seeking Him for His timing and are certain that He will be faithful to speak. Thanks for following us so far on this journey. We are believing God to do great things and know that includes all that is yet unseen in the present.
