I was challenged at our church prayer time tonight – most of us have heard insanity defined as doing the same thing over and over yet expecting different results.

Many, including myself, are expecting greater accomplishments, greater outreach, greater signs and wonders in 2017 – but here was my challenge:

What am I going to do differently or better, or what weights am I going to lay aside so that I can have greater results this year than last year? I can’t expect increased results in 2017 unless I increase something. God has His part (the impossible part!), but I have my part as well. I must prepare so that I have the capacity to receive what He wants to do IN me and THROUGH me in an increased way this year.

Stepping up my prayer life – stepping up my Word life!

Whoohoo! 2017, here I come!

It’s an AMAZING time of year!

We are so THANKFUL for our family, friends and ministry partners and the many ways you have shared in our lives during this 2016 year. You have encouraged us, strengthened us and have given in ways you may not have even realized.

Our sons, Madison and Anderson are home in Botswana with us for the holidays this year. At any age, it’s fun to be together at Christmastime!

Madison graduated from Rhema Bible Training College and it is a pleasure to have him in Botswana with us. His attention to detail and “outside of the box” thinking have inspired Matt and I. Anderson is living in Oklahoma and we are so proud of his generous, compassionate approach to navigating this new phase of life as a young adult.

We are thankful to be together, we are thankful for friends and family, but most of all, we are thankful to our Saviour. When I think about our Heavenly Father’s willingness to release His perfect Son into a world that would despise Him, abuse Him and reject Him – I’m amazed. Parents love their children and I know how much we love our sons and want the best for them. The way the Father gave is amazing beyond words and I can’t think of anything more difficult for a parent to do. But our Father did send Jesus to us, and Jesus willingly came to this earth and showed us the Father’s love. He walked with us and exemplified how to live as sons and daughters of the Most High.

Yes, Christmas is an amazing time of year!