The Covering

The past two Sundays we did services together as a family in churches of our families. These are churches that not just our parents attend, but also a sibling or two and their families. There is always something interesting about being the missionary related to someone in the church.

Both services were great, but it wasn't because of the stories we shared of God's work in Moldova. It also wasn't because an offering plate was passed and people gave generously to the work in Moldova.

The reason both services were amazing was because at the end of each service, the pastor asked us to come forward with our family and then asked anyone related to us to gather around us. They laid hands on us and prayed for us.

It struck me how powerful this time is in our lives. We could not do what we do without many praying for us. When corporately a body of believers lifts us to God, the work to God, our safety to God, it is real work for the Kingdom of God. It is a covering in the battle that rages. As I stood with family gathered around us on December 31 and again January 7 and the body of Christ praying for us, I knew this is my favorite part of itineration and what I most need when in America.

Churches often begin the year in prayer. Let's not forget to pray the rest of the year too. I'm so grateful for the prayers that are lifted for us throughout the year. I'm so grateful for your commitment to pray for us.

Please pray for us this month. We are traveling together this month more than normal. We have been to Wisconsin. Andy will go to North Dakota this week and then we'll go back there on the weekend with the girls. At the end of the month we'll all travel for a week to Montana for minister's renewal and services.

Pray for good roads and safe travel.
Pray that God's spirit would move upon His people.
Pray that people would give generously so our cash budget can be raised.
Pray also that our pledge budget will be raised.
Pray that God would move on people's hearts to be a part of the harvest in Moldova.
Pray that God would let the time in Montana would be special for us as a family.

Thanks for covering us with your prayers.