Greetings from snowy New Hampshire!

 

Judging by the view from our window, it's definitely winter here! Even though it's been a challenge to adjust to the cold weather, we can't help but admire the beauty around us--lazy floating snowflakes; those icy blue winter skies overhead; the frozen waters of Lake Spofford;  the evergreen trees frosted with white. Our coal stove has been faithful to keep us warm on even the coldest days, as long as I keep it well fed, that is! Each Thursday Kimberly and I are braving the slopes of Mt. Snow, VT, with our snowboards, coming home with bruises and sore tail-bones, but muscles that are slowly getting accustomed to this new activity. We might actually graduate from the 'bunny slope' soon! :-)

Along with just enjoying the winter, we are thankful for time with family and friends. Fellowshipping with our different church families is always a highlight of the winter months here, as well...as we spend time with many of you, our hearts have been blessed and encouraged. Thanks to those who have hosted us in your churches, and assured us of your interest and prayers! In just nine short weeks, Lord willing, we will be heading back to Ecuador (the end of March).


Kenny, now 23 years old, continues to work at Liberty University; we are looking forward to a week with him again in early March. Kimberly will turn 17 soon. She continues to work hard at homeschooling and enjoys earning a few spending dollars at her once-a-week housecleaning job. Keilah has perhaps faced the most changes in her life this year---she turned 21, graduated from Bible School, got her driver's license and first car (and bought her first set of snow tires!), settled herself into working two part-time jobs here, and got engaged to Jeremy Windler over Christmas break! What a blessing to be able to be here with her during these big life events! :-) Jeremy was born and grew up in Paraguay, where his parents are missionaries, so he and Keilah have much in common. Keilah and Jeremy look forward to a summer wedding (the end of July), and are working through the dynamics of planning a wedding with both sets of their parents far away....hopefully we will both be able to make it here for the big day!

We have been saddened by the news from Ecuador that all is not going well with the Awa church. Communication has been very difficult, but we finally were able to talk with several of our friends. It would seem that one of the elders (Milton) has been involved in an immoral situation, and, although he is now repentant, has disqualified himself from teaching and leading the flock. The other elder (Paulino), has kept himself far away from the church, probably feeling the shame of his brother's sin. Our hearts have been heavy as we consider the consequences of this situation. Emotionally, we have felt like we were on a roller coaster of emotions--one minute facing the discouragement of knowing that God's name has been publicly 'dragged through the mud' among the Awa communities; the next minute feeling frustrated at those involved; and then wondering if we made the right decision to be away for these months. Thankfully, our faithful Father has encouraged us with the realization that He is the Great Redeemer and sin is no surprise to Him---He made provision for each and every one of us with His own blood. He knows the Awa; He loves them; and He will build His church among them. Thank you for your prayers for His redeeming work to be done in this situation. Please pray especially that His name will be upheld among the Awa.
In HIS grip,Kevin & Kathy

<FOR A PRINTABLE VERSION CLICK HERE>