We've been here a month. WHOA! Where did that time go? I know we're really getting settled because during the middle of the night wake-ups I don't try to walk the floorplan of our Florida home. Haha! My toes are very thankful to not be stubbed constantly :)Thank you all for your prayers, we have needed them and God has most definitely been at work!
This month's notable events:
These Floridians survived the snow! Weather here truly is crazy, one day we went hiking at a local park (the desert, E1 calls it), and three days later we were buried in snow. E2 proved to be far braver with the snow on her home-turf. E1 fearlessly leaped from the stairs into the smooth powder. I think she was a bit surprised how far she sank down :) Even Simba, the manly 10 pound miniature poodle, could be seen gallivanting through the snow for a while. I was incredibly thankful we didn't have to go anywhere that day, just spent it together outside till we couldn't feel our fingers (a whimpy 20 minutes) then warming up with hot chocolate. The whole process was repeated many times.
E1 *offically* turned 4! Poor kiddo, she spent the day sick in the reclining chair. Our celebration plans were not to be thwarted though. A few days later we ventured to the south side of town and tried out a place called Paradise Cove. The kids had so much fun! It has many bounce houses, obstacle courses, and a laser maze. E1 ran from one side of the building to the other and couldn't wait to do them all! E2 was brave and learned to climb up the giant inflatable slide all by herself and flew down a bit faster than I think she intended. Both girls have started Awana at our church and are in Cubbies - they love it! I'm blessed to get to help lead their class and man, there's not much more convicting and encouraging than listening to a 4 year old recite Scripture!Jarrod had his first opportunity to preach as associate pastor for GHBC. The Lord used him and there was quite the chuckle as he passionately discussed the "BIG but" in the Scripture passage :) He had no idea he said it. Pray for him. He has had many opportunities to counsel and share the Gospel both in the church and in our apartment complex. I look forward to him having a moment to share a few of the experiences with you.
It still feels a bit like we're "shooting from the hip" so to speak in regards to scheduling and getting into a routine. In some respects, I know this is just how ministry is, but in others I look forward to providing our kids (and ourselves) with a more stable schedule.We had our first holiday away from family; the Lord was so kind to love on us through others. We had a delicious Easter meal, beautiful flowers and were able to talk with all the fam. I wouldn't pretend that it was an easy day, but the Lord is abundantly generous in His care for us.
Thank you all for your prayers and encouragement! We feel them and the Lord honors them. I have been reading through Titus and these verses in chapter 3 really help me engage in the work here:
3 At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. 4 But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit
We know that it is nothing of ourselves, but only through His Holy Spirit working, that we are blessed to see lives changed. I am praying God moves mightily in GHBC and Reno, would you join me?
Love you all,
the Reeds
