There is a light snow over the land, with island grasses poking through; the light and the steel grey skies turn one’s heart Godward.
We are in the midst of many discussions about all that we have learned this year as a family. One thing we know for sure: that God is worthy of our complete trust.
It is nearly Christmas! All is snow and ice outside, but inside there is a fire in the wood stove and gladness in our hearts for all that God has done and is doing among his people. He has granted a great many opportunities for both discipleship and evangelism this Fall.
We learned a lot during the month of November, especially during the three weeks when I was here alone on the islands and we waited upon God’s direction, provision, and confirmation of our call to the islands for another winter. I learned once again of the depths of shelter and care of our Good Shepherd, as I spent many hours at His feet. I learned to ask God for big things and specific things. I learned that times of uncertainty can be some of the richest times of learning and intimacy with our Lord.
We miss you all, and are full of appreciation for your wisdom, care, and generosity in our lives.
Todd
In a counseling session this morning, a young fellow and I discussed where he was at spiritually. He’s been a believer for only two years, yet every month, the fruit of the Spirit is more evident in his life. How is this happening? His answer: “I have begun to internalize the Gospel.”
A fish peddler came to the house this week, knocked once at the back door and came in before we were able to bid him enter. We bought a sack of sole.
This afternoon, First Girl and Little Belles (as sous chef) put together a seriously beautiful dish of sole with tomatoes, coriander, lemon, scallions, mushrooms and pesto (“filetti di sogliola primavera”, from the Eat Right — the Italian Way cookbook).
When we stand upon the hill behind our house (the hill with the cross on it), this is the view as we look down at the sea. The waters hurl themselves against the cliffs. From our house, the waves look angry in a storm (almost frightening), but when we climb the hill to the cross at the peak, we have fresh perspective. I think there’s a lesson here.
