G’day Praying Partners,
“That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold
that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and
honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.” I Peter 1:7 This was a verse that spoke to me
during my quiet time today. The genuineness of our faith often gets tested.
These times are difficult and not ones that we would necessarily have chosen
for ourselves. Sometimes we ask why? What’s the purpose? That our faith may be
found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Christ. As
our faith is tested, as trials and tribulations come our way, how we handle it,
what we do with it, reveals Christ to those around us. These reminders are a
comfort to us. It has been a rough first quarter for us personally. It’s been a
roller coaster ride with Jackie’s health. She did see the oncologist yesterday
and was given the “all clear” with the caveat that she will be seen in 6 months
to check for any reoccurrence. At the end of this part of the journey, it was a
hallelujah moment! During this time, as you may recall, we have moved into
another house. Our new address is: 13 The Woods Blvd., Mickleham, Victoria,
Australia 3064. If any of you have shifted houses recently, you will know how
stressful that is, let alone with Jackie being unavailable to lend a hand
(although she did try and ended up in bed for 2 days!). The landlord from our old house is trying to
keep our bond – unfairly – so that has been referred to the equivalent of small
claims court here. That has been an extra financial burden, as you can imagine.
Then, 2 weeks ago, we got the sad news that Rob’s mom had passed away. This was
somewhat unexpected as she had told us that she was doing better. Because we
already have flights booked to see our youngest daughter, Tori, graduate from
college in May, we were unable to get Rob back for the funeral. Emotionally, it’s been draining. Physically,
it’s been exhausting. Spiritually, it’s been …hard to put a word there, because
with everything that’s gone on, we’ve clearly seen God’s hand at work, even
through the sadness and difficulty.
Stretching, that’s a good word. When you’re in ministry teaching and
training others for the work, encouraging them to walk by faith, oftentimes God
gives you the opportunity to practice what you preach – and I mean REALLY
practice it. Our faith has been stretched this quarter, but not broken. We know that God is doing just what He
promised – completing the work He started in us!
We’ve been looking
forward to our time back in the States – short as it will be. On Thursday we
will leave Australia behind for California. What an incredible joy it’s going
to be to see our youngest graduate from college! We will be there for a few
days, then on to Texas to visit for a few days with our son, then on to Florida
for a couple of weeks. We look forward to meeting the new pastor of our sending
church and speaking at 2 churches – one new supporter and one that we haven’t
been to in awhile. Of course, hugging our grandkids is at the top of our list
as well! A special blessing is that a young man from our church here in
Australia is coming with us! We are so excited about showing him some of the
sights in the States. He’s never been outside of Australia and is looking
forward to this trip almost as much as we are! We would appreciate your prayers
as we travel around a bit.
I know that we say this
often – but thank you for your prayers. We know that they have truly sustained
us for the last few months. It is an honor and privilege to serve Christ
together with you here in Australia!
Shining the Light Down
Under,
Rob and Jackie
