China: In His Presence

Newsletter-

Today as I look out my window, the wind is blowing and has cleaned the otherwise very polluted Beijing air. The trees are beginning to change colors, my mind drifts to cinnamon and pine. Yesterday I wore long pants for the first time in a long time. Fall is definitely here.

Since we have had no TIP sessions for a while (no students), I’ve enjoyed a lot of free time which I’ve taken advantage of. I’m in the middle of 3 very good books: The Three Battlegrounds (Francis Frangipane), A Heart Like His (Beth Moore), and The Safest Place on Earth (Larry Crabb). I’m listening to some good pastors on the internet and doing other things to enrich my relationship with God. The most important thing I’m doing is spending time in His presence. Sometimes I don’t say anything but I listen to Him. Sometimes neither of us has anything to say. I enjoy God’s presence more than anything in this world and resting in His love. My perspectives are changing as well as my heart. It hurts me not to be teaching but I know God has other things for me right now.

As I reflect a bit, I’m 60 years old (almost 61). I’ve lived as a minority in community almost half of that. I’ve served Jesus in 8 countries, lived in 6 and been to 21 countries. I don’t know what my future holds, but I can rest in His grace and love.