After several hundred people shuffled through the lunch line, Slick served the last bit of pulled pork onto the plate of the last person in the line at the chapel’s block party last Sunday. Clearly that was a God-thing! The whole pig had been eaten but brisket, burgers and dogs held out as did all the sides and fixings. But the more important part was that many folks heard about chapel programs and local churches, and a few even showed up at the women’s studies this week as a result.

Not all was roses, however, as deep brokenness and hurt was evident at even so shallow an event. Nor have the studies and meetings we are both involved with been without challenges. We’d much appreciate your prayers for these situations, not that God would give us clear sailing, but that we’d be able to discern where God would build our character through perseverance and where He is shutting doors in His own sovereignty.

On the encouraging side of the railroad tracks, Slick’s been invited to help lead a men-and-boys’ retreat for the chapel and we’ve both been asked to run a marriage seminar through a local church. These elicit both thanksgiving and many prayers for wisdom. Would you join us in those?

And finally, during his week in NY at school, Slick was able to catch up with many folks. For one of them Slick has been praying for years that God would give this young man a disciple to pour into. Slick repeated this request in the man’s hearing as they prayed before hanging up and within moments the man received an email from a friend who was seeking a mentor. From Joe’s perspective, a demonstrative and immediate answer to prayer. From Slick’s, God finally responding to years of praying. Either way, may God be praised. J

How might we celebrate and supplicate with you?

Playing with the next door neighbor Molina who is between Gwen and Matti’s ages. One of the best parts of this picture is a complete lack of boxes (except for the one beside Zoe’s left ear if you look carefully). Proof that pictures can be deceptive!