Trials and Perseverance Leads to a Time for Healing
Our family is in the process of "developing perseverance" following several months of emotional and physical trials. After dealing with joint stiffness and hip pain for quite some time, initial test results indicate Glenna may have a rare form of arthritis. Paul also received a medical diagnosis of sleep apnea (which explains his tiredness this past year).
Right before Christmas, Cady and Grace's Boston public elementary school was approved to be reduced to a pre-school to 1st grade only (formerly to 5th grade). This was very disheartening after a 10-week campaign to save their school.
And during New Year's weekend, our home was broken into; several computers were stolen, including our personal computer and back up drive with 10 years worth of family photos. The combination of these events plus life's other "normal" challenges (whatever normal is) took a significant toll on each of us.
We have no doubt that God knows what he is doing. These have not been easy days, but in the words of Job, "Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?" (Job 1:10). We believe there is a purpose in everything that has been happening to our family.
One thing we believe God is stirring in us, as Paul would say, "is to consider a realignment of our lives to His purposes." There are some godly values such as simplicity, family, and rest, which we have stepped away from over time.
2011 will be different for us as we listen to God and experience his healing in our family. To this end, both Paul and I have stepped out of our significant volunteer leadership roles (apart from The Boston Project). Additionally, we will be home schooling all three girls next year. It is thrilling to dream and plan together with them about the new opportunities for our family. Please pray for us as we step out in faith and obedience to God.
