Patience

Yesterday, I (Blake) had the honour of speaking at St. Mark's South beginning new series called Love Wins. The scripture I was given share about was 1 Corinthians 13:4, "Love is patient, love is kind." It was such a helpful study for me given our current season. Particularly in the area of patience.

In studying the deeper meanings of the word Paul uses for patience, I am encouraged that patience is not passive. It's very much an active stance (hence the image below). Loving people through patience involves active waiting being present in the moment, relentless trust that God has equipped us to do all that He has called us to do, and faithful expectation that God will do what said He will do. 

In our life, most of our patience is used up on our to wonderful boys. They are truly wonderful...but trying at times. It is a tough season of life for us as a family. Katy and I are actively waiting for peace, trying to enjoy every moment as these boys grow more and more so quickly. We are choosing to relentlessly trust that God has equipped us to be great parents. And we are faithfully expecting God to bring us through this season of never-ending transitions stronger and healthier than ever.

Thank you all for your prayers and support. We are so grateful that you are on our team.

CCI - Christian Churches Ireland

We would like to announce you that Assemblies of God Ireland has adopted a new name. We're so honoured to be a part of this amazing movement. Here is a statement from Christian Churches Ireland. 

Christ Churches Ireland is a movement of pentecostal churches in voluntary cooperation. Each individual church is self-governing, but commits itself to work together with other churches in the movement for the purpose of mutual support and the spread of the gospel in Ireland and beyond.

The Assemblies of God Ireland was formed in 2006 and has experienced consistent growth. It's National Leader, National Leadership team and National Council formally adopted a new name of Christian Churches Ireland in November 2016.

In our churches you'll find vibrant, contemporary Christians who love the Lord Jesus Christ and express that love in lively praise and worship and in caring relationships. Christian Churches Ireland are bible-loving, evangelical and pentecostal, and are about connecting people to Jesus Christ.

Please pray with us for CCI and it's leadership, that God would guide them during this transition.

Kid Update

Here are a few updates about the kids...

Eden

• He's three years old.
• He's still trying to learn how to poop in the potty (too busy to stop).
• He LOVES singing and putting on shows for whoever is around.
• He is in Montessori school three half-days a week and loves it.
• His favorite Christmas present was his toy piano.

Eli

• He's seven months old.
• He's always smiling!
• He loves being held (he's like a little koala bear).
• Currently sleep training (slow process due to previous point).
• His favorite Christmas present was his little waffle teething toy.

Thank you so much for your prayers and support. Your prayers for our family are especially appreciated. Our kids are so precious, growing strong, and loving their life in Ireland.