beginning of the end

It seems like there are always decisions to be made, no matter what situation you are in.  Many times they are simple, easy decisions, but every now and then you are called to make a very difficult decisions that impacts your future and that of your family.  And so it is that time for us as we wrap up our 3 year term in Ghana. Do we stay? Do we go? What are the next steps for our family?

 

These pictures were taken as we walked to a baptism on April 3, 2011, just 2 short months after we had arrived in Ghana. In many ways it feels like a long time ago. Thankfully we have adjusted to life here in Ghana, and truly consider this our home.

 Life here in Ghana has been good for us spiritually, our marriage, and our relationships with our children. God has graciously allowed us to serve with and meet many wonderful, godly people who have encouraged and strengthened us to continue on. These friends come from many denominations including Lutheran, Baptist, Charity, and Assemblies of God. What we have found was amazing unity of believers when out on the field, a solace when your warm, comfortable church is 6000 miles away. We have grown to really appreciate so many people here, we love what we do, and in many ways it would be easier to stay.

 

But we feel that it's time to go.

 

This has been a very difficult conclusion to come to. Our children are already crying at the thought of leaving our friends behind. .

No replacements have yet to be identified. But yet we feel peace at moving forward, trusting that God has given us the next steps for our family.

 

Our term ends on February 4, 2014. When I signed my contract way back in February 2011, this date looked extremely far away. Now it is right around the corner. We have requested to our board to be replaced by the beginning of April,  and we are trusting that God will have the right people on board to take over the work at the school by then. Since Leon has taken oversight over the pastor association, right now what we need is a school administrator who is willing to teach a few classes. If you want more information on this position, I would be happy to give you a call.

 

We are asking you to join us in prayer that replacements would be found in the very near future. Pray that He would direct the steps of this mission in every aspect. Pray that He would continue to lead our family as we begin the transition back to the States.

 

We appreciate each and every one of you who have walked with us on this journey. We truly are grateful for your emails, letters, gifts, prayers, and financial support. This journey was at times difficult, but we wouldn't want to change it! Thank you!

sweeter than strawberry pie (part III, family edition)

 

 

Here's to a sweet 6 month old who gives and receives so many smiles.

Sister Abenah is a sweet tempered til hungry,

must be in the middle of the action,

feed me whatever you are eating,

take me wherever you are going,

make that silly face again,

paper-eating,

nose pinching,

hair pulling,

glasses nabbing,

banana-chomping,

water-slurping

little lady.

She has conquered rolling and scooting backwards.

She ventures onto her knees sometimes but bellyflops back down quickly.

She loves baths in the sink when the dishes are done.

She loves meals by Elle & baths by Max.

She is the sweet strawberry of her Daddy's eye.

I lean in to every sticky fingered snuggle, as she rubs her spitty chin into my neck.

This child. This one we have prayed and hoped for.

She is an enormous blessing wrapped up in sparkly eyes and sweet pink skin.

 

 And these children.

Though they've grown past the age of baby, they are a sweet treat.

 

Thanks to Benita for the props!

Benita Meyers is a sweet friend from South Africa who has blessed me with her photography talent and hospitality. Her testimony of God's work in her life and marriage in an encouragement to me. Thanks,Benita!