Thanksgiving (Thanks!)

We had a great dinner here introducing Thanksgiving to our new family in Alva.

They heard the legend of Squanto and we reminded ourselves that God causes all things to work together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. We remembered Cori Tinboom and the story of her losing faith while her sister was thanking God for fleas in their barracks (which they later learned kept the guards from raping them). Our time here lately has been deepening roots and growing healthy in loving relationships.

Its cold in Scotland! But that drove in like 10+ teenagers last night to our kids club at Alva Baptist Church (on top of the 12 or so kids who already come). And they didn’t ruin it for kids AND they stayed for the preachy bit to hear about how the righteous live by faith and a part about Sheep & Goats where Jesus describes the righteous as those who love one another well in action.

AND this one evil scoffer kid actually stepped into the main sanctuary, into the pulpit and began to read my sermon from last week about abiding in Christ’s word, knowing the truth and being made free! He stopped at each line and asked “now what the #@!$#$% does that mean?” And I patiently explained, loving beyond my offended heart!

I could have insisted on appropriate language, I could have insisted on a sterile place untouched by the hands of unbelievers, but instead I watched as God tugs on the heart of a sinner. Ministry is a messy business. (sheep smell) I can see how God chooses the least and the lost and calls them to serve Him. (In the mirror!)

Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!

Dave & Liz

PS Your prayers and support are how God got us here. Thanks!