Looking back on 2013, Matthew and I would agree that "change" is probably the best word to describe the year as a whole. This time last year, as we were looking ahead to what we imagined the year might have in store, there is no way we could have anticipated all of the changes we experienced! Praise be to the Lord, who, 1) prepared us for what was ahead before we even knew we needed to be prepared, 2) walked with us each step of the way, giving us what we needed for each moment, 3) brought so much good out of what the world would consider a tragedy (house fire), an impossibility (Gabe being carried to full-term, despite all the risks and potential complications), and just-plain-crazy (moving to another country with a 2 month old). It is those tragedies, impossibilities, and crazy decisions that God uses to take us beyond ourselves and into greater trust and reliance on Him. Only God can do that!
So as I look ahead to 2014, I'm trying to take these reflections into consideration. I have a peace knowing that God already knows what this year holds and he will continue to be faithful to prepare us, walk with us, and bring good out of whatever trials we may face. This is especially encouraging as a lot of changes are taking place here on campus. On the mission field, just as people are called here, they are also sometimes called to go back home. The director of CMA and his family have been called back home and only have a month or so left on campus. This will directly affect Matthew, as he will be the only pastor on campus, at least for a time. Praise God for the opportunity, but also prayers for the added responsibility!
As for me and my little sidekick, Gabe, we have enjoy quite the variety of activities! Most recently, "we" have helped put together an art room for the students. Just yesterday we had our first set aside time for the students to do art and it was very exciting to see what they produced! I have also done a few EAL (Equine-Assisted Learning) sessions with the students and our campus counselor and have had a great response from the students involved. It is very exciting for me to be able to combine passions and ministry! Gabe is certainly doing his part here on campus, bringing joy to students and staff with his smiles and laughs. He will be 5 months this week and is almost sitting up on his own, has two little teeth already, and is still just as happy as ever.
Thank you in advance for praying for our campus and the changes happening here, for our family as we continue to adjust, and for success with new program ideas that are being implemented! And a praise- we have a renter for our house back in Indiana!
Blessings as we enter into this new year!
Matthew, Jamie, and Gabriel
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