Happy 2010!

Now is a time where we're all evaluating the past year and looking forward to what the new year will bring. It's kind of like a fresh start. One of our favorite verses is Prov. 16:9 "In his heart man plans his way, but the Lord determines his steps." It couldn't be more appropriate for the past year of our life. We'd have never expected to be back in Lafayette and least of all homeowners. But we have much to be grateful for and much to look forward to!
As you know we've been working at Bridge since May and God has been leading us to look for a home in the neighborhood where we can be more effective in ministry and in identifying with those we are building relationships with. And He has blessed us beyond measure!

Only a block away from Bridge, this former Habitat for Humanity house has become our home. It's only been about a month but as we meet our neighbors and become familiar with the "North side" of town we're beginning to feel like a part of the community. We're surrounded by families that have been involved at Bridge for years and they have warmly welcomed us. The high school kids are starting to visit more and feeling more comfortable at making themselves at home here. We could tell countless stories about how God has provided for and directed us.

One of my favorite stories so far is about putting in our mailbox. As Jason was getting everything prepared one of the kids from down the road came by to say hi. Jason handed him some tools and they went to work. I can't express the delight I felt as I watched Jason patiently teach him how to screw in the bolts and the pride the boy had as they completed their project. At the time he wasn't coming to Bridge so it was special to be able to touch his life in a different environment. It blessed us to see how God was already answering the prayers we've prayed for months. The boy is now regularly coming to Bridge and we enjoy seeing him and learning about the neighborhood from him. It's amazing what a 10 year old can know and teach us! Here's some pics of them working.