Tyler and Emily in PNG

Ah…year 2011! You ask what is different, well many states have implemented new laws, many people have resolutions, but to be honest nothing has changed but a single number. The 0 rolled over to a 1. A new decade, the years of ‘aught’ are over. I personally don’t believe in new year resolutions simply because in a matter of weeks you will more than likely forget and return to old habits. I tend to set daily resolutions to the tune of die to self. We are called to die to self and live for Christ not yearly but daily. If I have to have a new years resolution, I change it to a daily resolution to die to self and live a life centered on Christ.

During Sunday School this past Sunday an open discussion was started on the church of Laodicea. The church of Laodicea is known as the last church of the seven churches described in Revelation 2-3. The church of Laodicea is better known as the ‘lukewarm’ church. (But since you are like lukewarm water, I will spit you out of my mouth! Rev 3:16) Some biblical scholars place the church of today with the seventh church of Laodicea. Many parishioners do not assume the responsibility that Christians are called to – obedience. Many are ‘lukewarm.’ God would rather you be hot or cold (on or off) but not in the middle. I guess the classifications are many or infinite but one category could be Sunday Christians and C & E Christians. You know; the type that called themselves followers of Christ from 9 – 12 on Sunday morning. But the story does not end there, Look! Here I stand at the door and knock. If you hear me calling and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal as friends. Rev 3:20 There is hope, God is here, standing and knocking. The choice is yours, you must open the door. We serve a merciful and very gracious God but yet a just God. Maybe this new year God is knocking at your door, will you open the door and live for Christ?

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The countdown has begun: T – 19 days. My departure is set for Jan 21. The process of packing, moving, gathering, and tie up loose ends has begun. Need to find a place to store my kayak, Jeep, belongings, and pick up my mail are a few things on the list.

I did receive a pleasant piece of mail this past week all the way from PNG. It was from the folks at the Pacific Orientation Course (POC) letting me know they are praying for my safe arrival. The simple post gram was dated Nov 23 (5 week delivery). I will be at the POC for 14 weeks learning the Pacific culture, customs, dos/don’ts, language, and lifestyle. Part of the course will be living in a village setting for 4 weeks. I look forward to the orientation and learning about the way of living in the Pacific island country.

Prayer Requests:
Smooth moving process of packing and transition

Praises:
All my big three needs have been met in full
(Work Permit, Visa, and Financial Support)