When Matthew stopped working at the end of August, we had 58% of our monthly support pledged and now we have 85%. We are still waiting to hear from a number of folks on a) whether or not they will be able to make a monthly commitment and b) how much they will pledge. Our estimate is that we are a little over 90% pledged. Throughout this past year the one time contributions that have been received as well as monthly donations which begun as early as March, 2007 have exceeded our budget for the transition expenses. The excess can be spread out over two years and should get us very close to 100% of budget.
During the last few months we have established contact with a few churches and families which might eventually develop into support partnerships in future months or years. We are very excited about getting started with the actual work and ministry we've been talking about for so long and so excited to have around 70 donors who are partnering with their generous financial support. In addition, there are many who have assured us of their desire to be praying for us as well as some who have made an occasional contribution - tangible reminders of God's faithful provision for each need.
As we go
we need prayer for:
- Diligence, clear minds and strength to pack and tie loose ends.
- God's favor @ the Mexican consulate in Chicago next Tuesday (11/25) 11 AM CST
- Travel safety - we'll be driving around 45 hours between Wheeling, IL and Tenancingo, Mexico in a span of 12 days.
- Good memories to be created on the long hours in the van.
- Safety on the Mexican roads, both for the vehicles and ill-inclined people.
- Quick adaptation to life in Mexico and acceptance in the community.
- A supportive home church - they sent us out last Sunday with a special prayer time during the service. Our pastor ended the prayer time for us with these words: "... the Lord your God has commissioned you and has sent you forth and we as a church stand behind you in prayer and we bless you in the name of Jesus. Go forth in His power, in His strength, in His anointing, not in the flesh, but in the power of God for safekeeping until we meet again and God bless you in Jesus' name, Amen"
- Faithful provisions of the finances to go and to stay.
- The mom's group from Peoria who so generously provided many helpful things for our children and the long journey down.
- Friends who have helped construct and detail our trailer to be filled with boxes for the move.
- A co-worker who has patiently waited for the right time to take over our lease.
- Children who are not only at ease, but excited about this upcoming change.
