Made it through March!

One of the primary roles of a parent, teacher, or adult leader seems often to be reminding. Don’t forget . . . be sure to . . . did you remember . . . ? Nagging aside, this is also God’s role, and the role of God’s people. This Easter season, we look back with gratitude and look forward with great hope. Looking at the past steadies us as we realize that nearly every major organization in our life is in transition. 

- We remember that one year ago this season, we told our three older kids about their new baby brother, who, in utero, reached the size of their easter eggs. And we told them that, because of various complications, he might not make it to birth. Now, we celebrate this new little life, with all his added charm and challenge. 

- We celebrate resurrection, but we're still on this side of the fall. As we anticipated Easter, we learned of the sudden death of one of my uncles, a sweet and wise man, deeply connected to his community as a teacher and pastor. Please join us in celebrating his first Easter face to face with Jesus, and grieving our first Easter without him. 

- We remember gratefully the years CAJ students have been able to travel to Thailand to connect with local schools. My first year to chaperon this trip was in 2006, Ryan’s first year was in 2009. The Thai girl we have had the privilege of supporting through her years of school is now in university nursing school! We’re so grateful for CAJ’s years of connection to this little city in Chiang Rai. 

- We look back gratefully on our years at our church, Kurume Bible Fellowship. This is a transitional season for our church. We pray for a renewed sense of vision and purpose for our community as we search for a new pastor. Despite the inevitable mess of transition, we hosted more than 90 neighborhood kids yesterday at an Easter outreach event! 

- We look back on so many years of connection to CAJ; my grandfather was part of the original founding team, and my aunt was a member of the first graduating class. A year ago, I was asked to join the school’s Board of Councilors, taking on yet another point of connection to this school. We look forward to a new season at this school, and anticipate new ways to deepen connections to our local town, our city and this country. 

- We also look back gratefully at our years at our local Japanese schools. A few weeks ago, the school year wrapped up for the two bigger kids, and next week the new year begins, with V entering preschool! She is by far the most excited about the prospect of starting school. This school too is in a time of extreme transition; please join us in praying for the many new teachers. 

Lots of transitions, and we know God isn't surprised by any of them. Through every change, he remains faithful.