We’re so glad we’re able to get our December update out on time - Mozambican time, that is! 

First of all, our deepest gratitude to you for your sentiments and blessings that made our holiday season so memorable.  You are our joy!   Some of you may have tried to call us over the holiday season on our skype-in phone number 913-871-6490.  Thanks!  We apologize that our internet service is often unreliable or unavailable.  We'll be traveling out of town to see some missionaries next week; otherwise, feel free to call us this month.  The best time to reach us from Missouri/Kansas is between 9 a.m. and noon your time.  

*** Check out our pictures with captions via the link in the right margin.  They almost say it all! 

Also, check out The Times December 27^th article (http://tinyurl.com/8awby2), titled:  As an atheist, I truly believe Africa needs God

Elijah:  Tuesday, I was sitting at the computer when I realized a storm had moved in.   Lightning hit quite closely twice and the third one was a biggie.  It came through my ear-bud that was blown out of my ear, making my whole body jolt.  Thankfully my guts didn’t blow out.  I checked under my shirt and all was ok!  Whew!!!   That same day I fell out of a mango tree (Ouch!) but landed on my feet. 

   Right now I’m enjoying exercising, memorizing 1 Peter, practicing the drums, and hanging out with MK buddies.  Miss everybody!

 

Esther:  I miss my family in the U.S.!... 

We have a huge mango tree here I love to climb.  Also,  I’ve been playing the piano a lot!

 

Melissa:  I appreciate your prayers so very much!  God is giving us peace in the midst of our challenges.  I’ve had a few “doozie” days when I submitted myself to the family for counseling.  Of course, God has refreshed me from His Word and communication from some of you, our loved ones.  I sure do miss you and am so thankful for you. 

 

Daniel:    I have been working on a series of three messages in Portuguese, giving the second one this coming Sunday to a nearby church.  Friday and Saturday, I’ll be visiting some of them in their homes to be a friend and to better understand where they’re coming from.   Most believe they are saved because they’ve done the right religious things and are leading a good/friendly life.  Pray that the conviction of sin and the Glory of Christ would break through to their hearts.

  I’m also very excited that the first week of February I may be able to attend a “world-view” shifting seminar by a missionary and cognitive anthropologist who has lived for decades here in Africa.  I’m praying this will also help us bridge the gap from Christ to their culture.

 

Starting Macua Training – Disappearing for awhile!:  On February 8^th, we begin the Macua language training course – full time!  We uproot here and move to a nearby village into a true dorm/camp house.  This training is Monday through Friday.  Breakfast is at 7:00 a.m.. Classes go from 8:00 to Noon, and 2:30 to 5:00 p.m., with supper at 7:00 p.m.  As you can understand, with all the things we still need to take care when we return each weekend to our home here, we will as much time for correspondence, as we attempt to put our focus on getting the most out of this language training.  There is a three week Easter break in April when we will brief you on our progress for the first quarter.   This course will end August 21^st.  At that time we will continue language learning through private tutors in our home.

   Please pray for Elijah and Esther during this time of significant isolation.  Pray they’d be able to maintain a sense of focus in their independent studies.