Friday, February 21, 2020

What's up with our family?

It's getting complicated, this writing about our family. Twenty years ago there was one thread to report. Ten years ago there was a bit more individuality, but our story was still one. Now we are living three unique stories, and only one of them belongs to Garry and I to share. Yet so many of you are invested in the stories our sons are living that it matters to share at least a bit. In fact, despite the physical distance that has nearly always existed between you and us, you are our people. You are the ones who have followed us around the world and prayed us through so many things. You are our community, despite seldom being local. So here goes a recap that has me imagining my side of the conversation with you sitting across the table from me.

Garry and I are loving this stage of life and working together in new ways. Our current project of organizing seminars and audits is not our primary sweet spot, but it's part of what keeps us in our sweet spot. We are continually challenged by the Gospel and its impact on lives. We are increasingly challenged to invest in the next generation and their capacity and passion to live and share the Gospel. We love how mission aviation is part of bringing the Gospel to isolated people groups, be that geographical, political, or community-related isolation. We love the fact that we continually have opportunity to share what God is doing in our lives and around us. We love encouraging young people to follow hard after Jesus. And besides our more serious pursuits we are enjoying settling back into our home in Spokane-- walking trails, local coffee shops, and pretty drives. Garry is getting back to building and I'm enjoying writing. And most days we can't believe we actually get to do this.

Kevin has been blessed to pursue his calling in badminton as he trains and coaches. He has had some great opportunities to both live and share the Gospel in a very unique setting. His grit to keep on despite challenges has been encouraging. God has provided sponsorships to allow him to train effectively: strength and conditioning training (Sweaty), physical therapy (Dynamic), and on-court training (Gao Badminton). He is coaching many hours to cover living expenses and depending mainly on donations for competition expenses. It's fun to see his walk of faith in this season.

Kaleb is enjoying the unique opportunity to study at a school that is in its infancy (Great Northern University), a place where he sees his professors constantly choosing faith in uncommon ways. He loves learning and engages us in great conversations many evenings. He is also investing in youth at church and being mentored by a youth pastor. Weekends often find him at the skate park where he has opportunity to share light in a dark place.

That's us. What is up with you family? Drop us a line and let us know!

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