Update – December 09

Feliz Natal from Brazil!  Oh, how good it feels to say that phrase!  This really encompasses the work of the Lord in my life over the past year; “from brazil” indicating how the Lord has worked out all the details from transform me from an American engineer to a missionary in Brazil and “Feliz Natal” carrying the essence of this gospel work as well as my immersion into the Portuguese language and Brazilian culture.

As many people do, I have been reflecting on the year past and just how much the God of this creation and Author of my salvation has demonstrated His mercy, grace, and love in my life.  As the song indicates, a book couldn't contain it all if I were to try and write it down.  But I think it is an excellent exercise to highlight just what the Lord has done in the past year.  I would not consider this a comprehensive list by any means, but I do think it will demonstrate accurately just how faithful God is the lives of men.  In chronological order…

Realization of my desire to see God glorified through missions and opening my eyes to long term frontier missions. 

Caterpillar severance package. 

Only seven months to be fully supported and on the field! 

An amazing and hospitable host Brazilian family. 

Seamless transition to Brazil without adverse effects! 

An ability to learn Portuguese quickly (believe me, I have much to learn, but I believe it is going well). 

My Type VII Religious visa to Brazil! 

Perfect timing for the acceptance of my visa to be able to spend three weeks in the States with family during the holiday season. 

Smooth travels when moving to Brazil with seven suitcases.  Also no problems with Customs officials!

In light of all this activity in my life, I am brought to tears and filled with Joy in  my heart for serving my Lord, Christ Jesus, and honoring His father.  I continue to understand more and more just how menial my expectations for life can be, even though I live drenched in sovereign grace and truth from God!

Through this I am also reminded of the upcoming challenges that I will face, but with renewed courage and strength in the Lord to take them on.  I know that God is present and as I pray and fast through them, I will continue to see the hand of the Lord working!  That is without a doubt!  Two of these challenges will be overcoming the financial expenses of purchasing a vehicle for transportation and ministry use as well as renting and furnishing my own living quarters in Santarem.  Both of these will put significant stress on my financial situation, but nothing that I’m not confident the Lord will work out!

So here’s to 2009.  I praise God for each of you who have been a part of this ministry in the name of the Lord either by prayer support, financial support, reading this blog, or simply watching me on Facebook.  I pray that I have been a blessing and encouragement to you because I know that you have been to me!  Merry Christmas and Happy New Years!

Praises
- Approval and receipt of my Type VII Religious Visa!
- Safe travels to Brazil for my long term move!
- Time with family and friends in the states during this holiday season.

Prayer Requests
- Continual reliance on the Lord in my life.

- Continued learning of the Portuguese language.
- For the the Lord to open doors and provide a solution to my living and transportation situation.  Go here if you would like to help!

Grace and Peace to You,

JAE