Recovering

For the last two weeks in May, I was able to travel to California to be with Cara, Perry, and our two grandsons Zeke and Titus.  Cara had hurt her back and asked me to travel through the Covid-19 world to help them with lifting, doing housework, cooking, etc.  I was glad to go and help.

But it was a great time of healing for me as well.  It is great therapy to sit in the dirt and play with trucks, or have picnics outside, or give belly blowers to a 5 month old.  

After two intense months with my father in the hospital, his death on March 15, and the following weeks of dealing with his estate and the whole coronavirus deal, I found myself exhausted emotionally. 

I have had had a hard time wrestling through everything.  It has hit me harder than I could imagine.  I have been sad about all that has happened.  Part of it may be that we are not able to have a memorial service, or be with family much during this time  I'm grateful for the time with Dad and there are some wonderful memories I will carry with me the rest of my life.  I'm also grateful for how supportive Dayna and the kids were as well.

I'm coming out of this tough time of depression and things don't seem as overwhelming these days.

But I'm sorry I wasn't able to communicate well with you, our friends and partners, over the last several months.  Thank you for your graciousness to us with your faithfulness during a darker time.

One of the first verses I learned after I came to Christ was Hebrews 13:5, 

"Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said,

            "Never will I leave you;

    never will I forsake you.”

And Psalm 34:18 says

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

The Lord's nearness and presence are comforting.  I try to remember and acknowledge His presence every day.

No one is untouched by Covid-19.  Whether it has impacted your employment, or your ability to be with family, I'm sure you have been challenged, like we have.  Please let us know how we can pray for you.  I know I covet your prayers for me and our family.  

With thanks and love,

P.S. Despite the pandemic and everything that I just shared, ministry is still happening, and we have been able to contribute well virtually, so I'll try to catch you up on those things next time.  But I wanted you to know why you haven't heard from us for a while.  Thanks.