2013 February: Catching Up

If you’ve been following along, you know that my residence and income are stabilized, and I’m getting into the rhythms of my new environments. Looking around yesterday, I’m getting a bit excited about having my things brought up in the spring, and I can begin riding my bike to local establishments. Agreed, that may be a bit ambitious, but I still have time to dream before reality strikes.

I’m also getting excited about the next item on the major agenda, joining forces with a Deaf Ministry located in Indiana. Their goals and mine are the same: introducing deaf people to Jesus before they leave the planet or we do. Our targets are slightly different, but that means increased coverage. They’re seeking to reach children, I’m seeking to reach adults, yet Jesus is the savior for all. His message is unchanging, and His offer is for everyone. His faithfulness never expires and has no age limits for old or young. May we both, and the other targeted ministries, find success, as measured in the neighbors we will enjoy 300 years from now.

But first… isn’t there always a ‘but first’? It seems to be so in my experience… First, there are some items I need to get finished and off the to-do list. I referenced them a few months ago, and I’m finally getting them wrapped up. Still not as quickly as I’d prefer, but a checkmark’s a checkmark. I’m beginning to look into the possibility that sewing may be one of my potential income streams, though of course I’d need to streamline and speed up the process a bit. (That’s what I get for saying I’ll be a ‘tentmaking missionary’ like Paul) The reality of any produced item is that custom work takes more time and bulk work holds less unique value. There’s a devotional thought in that, and encouragement for those of us who are long-term renewal projects under our Lord’s craftsmanship.

In a few more weeks, I should be caught up and ready to switch gears, focusing on how I can begin to serve this ministry and make some real progress in finding and ministering to deaf people in my new location. That’s news to pray for.

Meanwhile, God continues to provide opportunities to plant a seed or two, here and there.  Today’s example: a not-so-wasted trip to Burger King and a television special.  Pray that these ‘coincidental meetings’ grow healthy fruit.