December 2021
In many ways the past year has felt like we have been standing in the breakers. In fact, the word of the year here in Germany for 2021 was “Wellenbrecher” or wave breaker. Our world seems to be enamored with the looming waves in front of us and how we can break free of their hold. In the breakers, we find highs and lows, calm and turbulence, and its effect seems destined to pull us into its swell and drag us under.
But for those of us in Christ, we have a sure and steady anchor that brings hope to our turbulent world. As our world searches for the next thing to break the wave, we can draw confidence that we have found the “Wellenbrecher” in Jesus Christ. He is the One that steadies us and gives us the strength to stand firm as the waves crash down.
'We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, so that by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us. '
Hebrews 6:18-19
As we look into a formidable New Year may we anchor ourselves to Christ and like the writer of Hebrews later says so that we can run the race set before us with endurance looking to the author and finisher of our faith who for the joy set before Him endured the cross. We have much to be thankful for in Christ taking on our shame and we have much to draw hope for knowing that He is sitting on the throne!
A Special Note to our Coworkers for the Truth
As we look back on the past year and all its ups and downs, we wanted to give you a picture of what your partnership with us looks like. Our desire is to be workers alongside you for the truth and you are instrumental in Christ being made known in this place. I recently read a quote from William Barclay and it sums up so well what each of you mean to us.
Some people’s circumstances may be such that they cannot become missionaries or preachers. Life may have put them in a position where they must get on with a secular job, staying in one place and carrying out the routine duties of life and living. But, where they cannot go, their money and their prayers and their practical support can go. Not everyone can be, so to speak, in the front line; but, by supporting those who are there, people can make themselves allies of the truth. When we remember that, all giving to the wider work of Christ and his Church must become not an obligation but a privilege, not a duty but a delight. The Church needs those who will go out with the truth, but it also needs those who will be allies of the truth at home.
William Barclay
Thank you for being our allies of the truth. We are honored to represent you to the nations in Berlin and as Christ is proclaimed you are making a difference. Below you can find key moments in our year of ministry. Each picture tells a story of how we have been spending our time. By clicking the picture you will find a more detailed description of what the picture represents (for use with a mobile device click on the picture and then tap the dot in the bottom right corner to see the description).
2021 Ministry in Pictures
2021 Family in Pictures
Thank you for loving our family! We are so encouraged when you reach out to us and let us know you are praying for our family! Here are some of our favorite memories from the past year with friends and family.
