This is going to be the last time you all hear from me in the States because I BOUGHT PLANE TICKETS!! My official date to leave the country is September 9. First, the praise goes to God! I’ve been praying about this date for so long, and now that it’s just about here, I’m flooded with emotion. Over the past few months, I wondered at time
Another praise is that I am ever so close to being fully supported! The prayer and financial support keeps rolling in and I’m completely humbled by this. I’m moving forward in faith that the last 7% will come in before I leave on the 9th.
I was able to submit my paperwork for my Religious visa last week. What a relief! Please continue your prayer for it’s uneventful and expedient approval!
And the time keeps flying by….I was able to wrap up the last two weddings of the summer that I’ll be able to attend, both old college buddies. I had three of those this summer, so I’ve really been able to catch up with old friends. I hosted an info night to share with friends and family the work that PAZ is doing in the Amazon, as well as my history and involvement with the ministry and how God led me there long term. I was extremely encouraged by the attendees and the help from a special group of people that took care of all the details to put it on. I was able to see off a good friend of mine who has been a rock of inspiration to me over the past 3.5 years as he left Central Illinois for seminary. Then to wrap it up, I gathered up a small group of guys (even was able to pull a couple away from their wives) that have been influential in my life for one last hurrah. We ventured out to Cincinnati for a 
Special effort has been made for family time, and I know that it’s getting short. I’m thankful for the time that has been available for me to spend with them. Just over the past month or so since I’ve had a date set, it is starting to hit home that I’m actually moving out of the country. So on top of all the “stuff” that has to be done, I’ve been trying to get together with them as much as possible. We were able to throw my mom a surprise 50th birthday party without her even having a clue! So much fun! This weekend I”m looking forward to a quick trip to Florida with my Grandpa Bill, Grandma Jean, Aunt Sharon, and my mom to go visit my grandpa’s siblings. Once I get back from there, I’ll be running the gauntlet until The Departure.
The past month has been intense with a barrage of mind-boggling health issues affecting important people in my life, such as a mild heart attack for my pregnant friend, the death of a high school boy with heart problems, kidney failure, and terminal cancer. The older of any of these people is 26! Please intercede for them! I keep coming back to the truth in the Word that confirms His glorification in all this, but I’ve really had to step back and re-evaluate my stance on these trials of life. In the process, I came across some excellent resources from Desiring God. Take a look at Christ and Cancer and Don’t Waste Your Cancer.
Praises
- I’m now 93% supported! God has been so very faithful in this area, raising up willing supporters for His work! If you'd like to join, go here.
- Plane tickets are bought!
- Religious visa application submitted!
Prayer Requests
- For my Religious Visa application as it makes its way through the consulate. That the Lord’s hand would carry it through.
- Wisdom in working through the final preparations (packing, moving, selling my car)
- Blessed time with family in my last couple weeks.
- For fellow PAZ missionaries Katie A. and Paul C. who are preparing for their own departure to Brazil in the near future. Pray for endurance, dedication, and strength in the Lord as they prepare.
On Mission with God,
John
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