It has been a wonderful two weeks visiting friends and family in the states, and I will be heading home tomorrow morning to Mexico.
I left on Sunday, September 8th after church. It was a long drive, and I arrived at Brandon's about 10:30 pm. No problems on the road and the Lord blessed me with travelling mercies. My tires are very worn but not even a flat along the way. God is so good!
I enjoyed spending time with Brandon, Jessica and Abigail and we made cookies for Abi's preschool class. I love making cookies with her, and she seems to feel like it's the thing we do together when I come to visit.
Cookies for Abigail's Preschool Class
I flew to Sacramento on Tuesday morning, and Amber picked me up at the airport. We had a wonderful visit and I enjoyed every moment we spent together. I seldom get to see her due to the distance between us, so staying at her house with her family was a blessing.
Getting to spend time with her two-year-old was a special treat. Jayden is so much like Amber was when she was little. Here I've posted a few pictures of her.
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| Jayden and her new puppy |
Jayden at the park
Jayen and Amber
On Saturday afternoon, Amber and Josh had a wedding to attend, and Amber took me to Ken and Judi's for a time of fellowship. They have a Bible study a few Saturdays a month and it just happened I was there to join the fun that day. Ken asked me to share about the ministry in Mexico and I was privileged to share with the group some of the blessings and challenges of living on the mission field. I have known several of the people attending for many years, and Joan Souza, Nanette Yaw and Ken and Judi McKnight have been friends for over 28 years. I met them when I was pregnant with Amber. So needless to say, we have some history. They have always been supportive of me and my family, and have been there for me since the beginning of my commitment to walking with the Lord.
They blessed me with prayer and lots of encouragement and hugs that night. It was wonderful spending time with them once again.
On Sunday, we went to my sister's to celebrate my mother's 80th birthday. Jennie hired a 15-piece band that played the oldies. It was great to see all my siblings and to spend some time with my mom. It was a wonderful celebration with lots of friends. I'm glad I was able to join the party.
The remainder of my time with Amber was sweet and it was so hard to say goodbye. I pray the Lord provides another visit sometime soon, and that He continues to hold her and her family in the palm of His loving hand.
Brandon picked me up from DFW on Thursday evening, and we met Jessica and picked up Abi to go to Bible Study. Their Cell Group is just starting the Beth Moore Study, To Live Is Christ, The Life and Ministry of Paul. It was great to see everyone again, as I had been to their cell group before.
I was able to join Brandon at Northwood on Sunday morning, and really enjoyed the praise and worship. They have a new worship leader who recently came from The Potter's House.
I am looking forward to getting home tomorrow, Lord willing, and getting back to our lives. I am so blessed to have had this time to visit, but it's always great to get back home in your own surroundings. Bill has been home in Mexico while I have been in the states.
It has been a wonderful time of refreshing for me. I re-read two books that have encouraged me for the ministry God has called me to and I hope that you will consider reading them, too.
Jackie Pullinger's book, Chasing the Dragon is an amazing book. She left England completely trusting God to direct her and supply her needs. God used her mightily in Hong Kong with drug addicts and gang members.
Radical by David Platt has not ceased to inspire and instill a renewed desire to do all I can do for the kingdom. I would encourage any believer to pick up a copy of this book.
I pray God blesses you and continues to use your life for His glory. I am certain that He will complete the good work He has begun in each of us. Philippians 1:6
And let us not grow weary while doing good,
for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.
Galatians 6:9
In His loving grip,
Toni and Bill
