Wow, packing up a house to move across the South Pacific is complicated. It is difficult to decide what goes and what doesn't. What do you do with the boxes and boxes of love letters, children's doodlings, sentimental cards, and things like ribbons from the county fair and old school work? In addition to the many trips to the dump with things that nobody else would want, there are several truck loads of things being hauled away to new homes as we pare it down to what we will fit into the trunk of our car for the next several months and what will be stored until it ships out to Vanuatu.
Grace and Josh have been excited all along, but now that we are getting into the thick of it they are really getting anxious. They are having fun packing their own barrel (we are using 55 gallon drums for long term storage, they are easy to move and very resistant to the elements). Whatever doesn't fit they get to give give away.
O how the Lord has been gracious to us. He has prepared us to part with these earthly treasures. And He continues to remind us to store up treasures in heaven where neither moth nor rust destroy.
Along with the packing we have been saying 'farewell' to our friends here in Montana that have become so much like family to us (we love you guys). Lord willing, on our way from Washington state to Michigan, we will get to spend a short day or two back here in Forsyth the first weekend of May (which is Gracie's birthday - she would be thrilled to get an email from you - gkenner@inbox.com ).
So that is what we are up to now. Thank you all for your prayers. God is so good! He has been opening doors for us to share the gospel and our burden for Vanuatu. He is also providing opportunities as we chart a schedule for the next several months of deputation travels. Keep praying with us for God to move in an awesome way as He provides for the preparations needed, and for us to get to the field!
Also, thank you, to those of you that have taken the time to send a note or email of encouragement. It really means a lot to us to know that you are beside us in this work.
Because His steadfast love is better than life, our lips will praise Him!
Hey, just a friend of the Richard's and Laura...was surprised to see you guys moving out with the rest of the team right away (i knew you'd be going eventually). it looks sounds like God has been doing amazing things in your family's life. I'll add you to my favorites, so I can keep up with your updates as you quickly fill up your days with depuatation! How crazy and exciting.
ReplyDeletePrayin' for you!
Laura Faltynski