Since last blog entry, the world has undergone some major disasters. First the cyclone that hit Myanmar and the tragic restrictions to foreign aid; then the earthquake in China with so many dead and even more left homeless. It is such a sad situation there and other places and we pray God will give comfort to those who mourn and hope to those in despair. Here in Wheeling, IL, the pink flowers in many trees are a vivid reminder of the eternal hope God gives us in which, after "winter," comes a life rich with His blessings.We continue to move in faith as we trust the Lord to guide us to Mexico. As of this entry we have over 55% of ongoing support pledged. Our plan is for me (Matthew) to end full time work at Hewitt in mid to late August, by when we trust our pledged support will be around 75% to 80%. Then I will dedicate myself more fully to the efforts of broadening our support base so we can leave as soon as possible after that. Its a great leap of faith regardless of how it turns out. Our faith is being stretched as we believe God can provide all our needs by August. Our lease is up at the end of August; school starts for Samuel and Rebeca around that time. In terms of logistics, it would seem to be smoother to leave by Labor Day.... If you have not given it much thought, now is a great time to ask God whether He would have you be a part of our ministry. Some people are pledging $15 or $25 a month and others $75 or $100. Others can send one time gifts, while others can pray for us. What part will you play?
21 to go
Counting us four Reeds, our church is sending a team of youth to help this summer with VBS, construction and other evangelism. We are thrilled to be a part of the trip and have already been involved with helping train the team on language and cultural sensitivity. Hardly anyone of the 17 have been on a missions trip of any kind (much less outside of the US) so this will be a new eye-opening adventure for many. We believe that the church as a whole will gain a better perspective of where we are going as they hear stories from these youth and leaders..
