Christmas Update

Rosalie & Coral under enjoying a hug in front of the Christmas tree.

We hope and pray that all of you are refreshed and blessed by the Holy Spirit during this season of celebrating the birth of Christ Jesus.  We know that the state of our nation, the frustration of so many people and the chaos of Christmas commercialism is a challenge to all of us, but as we stop and reflect, the bottom line is that, Hallelujah, He is still in control!  What rest there is in that knowledge! 
 
In our August update we explained about our need to be here for Leon’s chemotherapy and the need to postpone several fall trips.  We are glad to report that the combination of chemotherapy, specific supplements, a more careful diet and most importantly, the prayers of many friends like you have shown to be very effective against the cancer.  Meanwhile Leon has had very limited side affects from the treatment.  Lab reports have shown him to in good health despite weakness and show that the cancer activity, as measured by psa, has been reduced by about 90%!  Amazing!  He has had some minor surgical procedures to help his lymph system and kidneys drain properly during the treatment, and  while they slowed him down a bit for a time, they have also been helpful in his feeling better in the long run.  
 
We are looking forward to being much more active in missions and ministry in 2017.   We are grateful to have been able to continue working from home with missionaries, indigenous leaders and in providing funds for missions in several countries during the last six months. But we are happy that in the New Year we have a mission trip to Puerto Peñasco in February and plans to reschedule two other trips.  There are also a couple of other trip options that we are thinking about for 2017.  Details to follow.  
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Family 
We are so blessed at the growing family that the Lord has given us and are excited that it will yet grow again sometime between now and January 3, 2017, as Leah gives birth to grandchild #5.  What sunshine they bring into our hearts and our lives!  Please pray for Leah for an easy birth and a healthy baby!  
 
Praise Reports:
John and Rebecca have quickly found a home and jobs in Canada and are making all the new adjustments of living on this side of the globe for a season.  The snow in Toronto is a bit different than the heat waves in Thailand!   

LWCF Chennai
LWCF Chennai has begun working with their local government to do medical outreaches to the community and other local outreaches.  The first medical clinic had to be postponed because of the death of a local political leader, but is rescheduled for January.  The evangelistic outreach was very effective. 

Prayer

• Leon
  • for increased strength as he recuperates from all the treatment 
  • the psa to drop to 0!  That the cancer would be demolished!  
• Teresa 
  • for healing from allergies and asthma
• Alex 
  • health and strength.  He has not been doing well.  
• Leah
  • safe delivery, healthy baby and quick recovery 
• Leon and Teresa - IMS
  • Continued support in prayer, encouragement and finances.

 
To all of you we wish a blessed Christmas and Happy New Year.  And, to those who have been so faithful with us through this process, thank so much!  We are so grateful for you and pray that God blesses you exponentially in return!  

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