November 2011
Dear Friends,
As I write Ana and I are in the second day of a three-day personal retreat. Our time has been really great thus far, having time set aside for reading, praying, and reflection. Yesterday, I spent time reflecting on the past year. I mentioned last month that the start of school is always a new year for us of sorts. Looking back is always encouraging for me. I see more clearly how God has worked over these twelve months – how He has worked in me and in those around me.
Today I am reflecting on our rhythm of life. Already the Lord is showing me some changes that need to be made (how to better observe the Sabbath, for example), but He has also been encouraging me in the things we are doing well. I am also taking an inventory of my health – physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, and social. Again, I believe Jesus is showing me some steps to take toward maturity in all five of these areas.
Tomorrow’s reflection time is set aside for thinking about our upcoming time of sabbatical scheduled for next year. Please continue to pray for us as we plan and seek to hear the Lord’s plans for this time. Our tentative start date is July of next year. A big prayer request that I’m sure I’ll bring up again down the road is for Eleni and Florin during our sabbatical. We know that God is preparing for all they will need and that in His timing we will know who is to be their primary caregiver while we are away.
Thank you, as always, for your continuing prayers. Keep praying for the children and for their families. Please pray in particular for the teens this month. We have raised the bar somewhat of our expectations for them and the choices they are making in their lives. This change will hopefully help to bring real transformation in their lives. However, it may also lead to some teens no longer coming to the center. Pray that the Lord will have mercy on these youth and that He will continue to guide their lives. Pray they will open themselves even more to His voice, guidance, and love.
Love,
Paul and Ana