As we near Christmas 2007, I want to extend a very Merry Christmas to the house churches of the Phoenix, Arizona area. Please remember the reason for this season and stay focused on the birth of our Saviour. Share this with family, friends, and people you meet along the way. Pass on to your children the hope we share in the birth and life of Jesus.
Also, please remember our sons, daughters, husbands, and wives who are sacrificing so much by being away from home serving in our nations military. Pray for those who are on the front lines in Iraq and Afganistan.
My son-in-law, Bradley, joined the Army early this year and was away from his family for over 6 months while in training in Georgia. In November he finally received his orders to the 101st Airborne at Fort Campbell, KY. He is to report back there by 11pm, December 24. Thats right, Christmas Eve.
The family is flying to Nashville Monday and will begin their search for permanent housing right in the middle of the winter.
We always think of the great sacrifices made by those in the military but we rarely think of the things like this. I am sure that during Bradley’s time in the Army, they will move at least a couple times, they will miss other holiday’s, the family will be stressed because of him being away extended periods of time, many times in combat situations, and their extended family will miss them all. This is just part of being in the service of our country.
At the same time, extended family will be called on to help them at times. Because the Army does not move their car, we will be driving their car to Fort Campbell, after taking them to the airport. The cost to transport the car was just too high. Pray for the weather and for our safety as we drive there and back during the next week.
I hope you are looking to 2008 with anticipation to see how God continues to move within our community. Be sure to continue praying for the valley. Join us January 5 for the Mountain Top Prayer.
