Merry Christmas
It’s good to center our attention on the One who came to be
with us. This year
thousands more people across this world are celebrating because they
have heard the Good News in their own heart language.
Dozens of language groups can read the story in their native
tongue for the first time.
One national translator said that reading the Bible in
another language was like eating soup with a fork.
They got a taste, but because they now have the Scriptures in
their own language, they can partake of substance.
Over 2000 different language groups wait for their own taste
of the Living Bread from heaven. We are part of Wycliffe Bible
Translators making that possible.
2007 started with Ruth’s birthday trip to Kenya with the U.S.
board of Gethsemane Garden Christian Centre.
The outcome was a deeper understanding between the two
boards, and a greater love and appreciation for the children and
staff that work there.
Committed Christian staff members are making a difference in the
lives of those kids who have been devastated by the loss of family
members due to HIV/AIDS.
GGCC helps fill the holes left in their hearts through personal
interaction and counseling. We
will never forget the sound of children praying and literally crying
out to their heavenly Father.
Can the sound of their joyful singing be matched?
Dozens of children have come
to know Him this year and are becoming strong Christian warriors
because of the Scriptures in Suba. Newly
trained in Evangelism Explosion, they sing and share the Gospel in
outreach ministry around the islands of Lake Victoria.
February - Ron
celebrated his 65th birthday on his way to a cardiologist
to diagnose the pain he had in his chest.
You know the story—six bypasses and many days in the
hospital. God be praised
for his watch care over the surgery and recovery.
Ron is exercising regularly with excellent results to show
for it. He now feels
better than ever.
We had a wonderful time in Minnesota with Dale, Judy and
three boys in October.
Praise God for Dale’s new full-time position at Bethel
University—head of the Pre-Seminary Initiative program.
We celebrated Dale’s birthday, attended dance lessons, played
lots of games, and walked the dog.
Exploring the trails of a state park north of Duluth gave us
great joy in God’s beautiful creation.
It was a blessing to spend time with a few supporters in the
area and also to meet the believers who are joining with Dale and
Judy to begin a new church.
We left with thoughts of retiring up there.
Thanksgiving was unique this year.
Ruth’s family, scattered across the country for years, was
privileged when three sisters and their spouses plus our mother all
celebrated Thanksgiving together!
Brother Bob missed out on being bossed around by his other
“mothers.”
The Christmas concerts are over at church, but they leave a
lingering memory of dancing angels, African drums and singers
calling out “Noel, Noel.”
What a privilege to be a part of that ministry—Ruth singing
and Ron recording. Many
people indicated they wanted to know Jesus, who is God with us, and
for that we are so thankful.
“Voices in Praise” is the ladies group Ruth sings with,
ministering twice a month in nursing homes and assisted living
facilities. It has
proved to be a tremendous blessing all around, especially at
Christmas time!
Gethsemane Garden held their annual fundraising dinner amid
poinsettias and lovely music.
New sponsors signed up for some of the 50 new students who
will enroll in January.
Opening a new Upper School in 2009 means we prayed for provision for
buildings and furnishings. We
saw God’s hand of blessing provide in a tremendous way.
Praise God!!
We’re looking forward to Christmas with Shane and Lee Anne
and kids. We trust each
of you will experience the joy of Christmas and a close walk with
Emmanuel.
Joyfully,
Ron and Ruth
