Ippistle 36

Ippistle 36
January 11, 2012

Dear friends and family,

We began 2012 in Michigan and are gradually adjusting to life back here in Budapest. Our time with our children and grandchildren was wonderful! It was just what we needed to feel the “touch” of each of them.

This year we have begun using the book “Seeking God's Face: Praying with the Bible through the Year” to guide us in our devotions. In the introduction to Epiphany, the season beginning January 6 leading up to Lent, the author reminds us that “Epiphany calls us to live God's mission, announcing the good news of Christ's arrival to every culture and to those who live across the street, bearing the light of Jesus to the nations and to those who share a home with us. We, the church, are sent out as the manifestation of Jesus to a watching world.” This captures for us what we feel God is calling all of us to do wherever God has placed us in this world. Pray that we will be light bearers to those God brings in our path here in Budapest. Pray with us that we will be light bearers to our colleagues at Trefort and at EDYN, as well as Jack's students. Pray for us to share God's light within The Bridge, the Tuesday night house church that we are a part of, as well as at Talipont, the Hungarian Reformed church that we meet with in a pub on Sunday nights. Pray for our witness within the many friendships that we have established as well as relationships that we are just beginning. We have been introduced to a new American couple who are also here to teach English. We pray for the Spirit's leading and right opportunities for them to see God's light in us and to be drawn, not so much to us, but to God's light within us. Jack continues with the after school English Club at Trefort and Cindy begins a new book club with a mix of Hungarian and American women. Pray for opportunities to bear the light within these contexts.

Just to let you know that because of the great response to our financial need, we are now in the black and very thankful for your generous giving. It was such a great boost and affirmed for us God's provision and continued care. Thank you for your partnering both financially and with your prayers.

Upcoming events for prayers this month:
Women's book club – first meeting, on January 15
Pizza party (12B class that we had our first pizza party with three years ago) on January 21.
ESI Spiritual Renewal Retreat for the Hungary/Slovakia team on January 28.
The weekly Wednesday afternoon English Clubs.


Boldog Újévet Kívánunk! (We wish you a Happy New Year!)

Jack and Cindy