Change is coming...

Amidst our preparations for moving to the Philippines (in June) and waiting for baby boy #2 to be born (in April), we recently flew to Alberta for some speaking engagements. We preached at First Mennonite in Edmonton and at Foothills Mennonite in Calgary, stayed with some dear friends in both cities, and spent a memorable evening on a beautiful prairie farm with second cousins of mine.


Sharing our story, our vision and our love for the Philippines renewed our excitement for our upcoming big move. It is a blessing to connect with churches and know that many more people will be following our journey and praying for us along the way. 


I am thankful for the prayers, as there are times when I feel deeply overwhelmed about the changes that will soon be taking place- adjusting to the heat, traffic and general craziness of a metropolis full of 12 million people, leaving our dear friends and family, developing new relationships, learning a new language...  all this with an infant and a one and a half year old in tow. Yikes!!! Life has been very "normal" for the last 3 years here, and it's about to get a little crazy! 


While I admit to being somewhat scared, I'm also terribly excited for what is in store for us. I am very thankful for where God has led us and for what He is doing in the Philippines. When I feel overwhelmed about the church planting and peacebuilding task ahead of us, I remind myself that this is God's work, God's plan and God's vision for the Philippines and we are just excited to be part of it! Below is an excerpt from my sharing at the Alberta churches- it's a good reminder for me....

"We are praying and working towards a new global reality in the Philippines- one that involves shalom: globally, nationally and locally. We believe that the peace that the world can bring is not the whole peace that Christ can offer. We as humans can only do so much. True peace, or shalom, comes from Christ and enters into our broken world. We pray for this and ask Christ to work through us as He guides us in our work."


And now for a few pictures from our trip...

With our dear friends Russ and Kelly in Edmonton

With the Heidebrechts in Crossfield

Cody loved the snow!