November, 2022
“Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 5:20
Dear Family, Friends, and Prayer Partners,
A Christian song comes to mind, which says: “How can I say thanks for all the things that You’ve done for me? Things so undeserved, yet You gave to prove Your love for me…”
And so, we are very thankful for so many precious gifts from our Lord. We are thankful to the doctors who take good care of us, and keep us going. Oh, we are slowing down, but we are able to get the necessities taken care of, though slower than before. Gary has been going to the YMCA for workouts, and this helps him considerably.
Back in September, we were blessed to be a part of the IBPHM (Home Missions) outreach in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, at the Flight 93 National Memorial. The Lord had provided some nice patriotic T-shirts, Gospels of John/Romans, various gospel tracts, pens with John 3:16, and even several Bibles that we were able to distribute for free. Praise God that we were able to reach over 1000 visitors. As the Lord enables, we trust we will be able to go again next September.
The next day, Sunday, we had the privilege of worshiping and speaking at the Bible Presbyterian Church in Apollo. It was wonderful fellowship and a very delicious dinner before we packed up and traveled home. A word of thanks is also to be given for a nice home here in Hurricane, and the opportunity to host guests, and have activities. We are thankful to those who have helped make our home possible.
There had been some discouragement with the boys that Gary had Bible Club with – they had many other activities and were not coming. Yet the Lord opened this door again, and now three boys are coming on Mondays for Bible lessons and DVDs. Luke, who is 12 ½, is very bright and remembers almost all the Bible stories. His brother Caleb is nine, also bright but much quieter, and has learned the books of the Bible, but sometimes needs a little review. Elias, a cousin, is six years old, has joined in and loves the Bible stories. He is starting to learn the books of the Bible (up to Ruth so far), though he can’t read them yet. It is a joy to teach these three, and see them grow in the Lord.
The pastors in Kenya, Kitui District, informed us that there is a real shortage of food. The rains had failed several times, so the drought and famine continues. Many of you have been praying with us that the Lord would meet this great need. Well, by His grace He has heard our cries and is answering through several individuals, and also a church, which has made these Kenyan pastors the recipients of their Birthday for Jesus gifts this year. Twice they have given funds to be sent to these pastors, with each receiving US$42.00. They are very grateful for what God’s people are doing for them. Thank you for your prayers and help to Kenya.
The Bethel Bible and Technical Schools called asking for a little help so they could have the garden plowed and planted once the rains started. We were able to send enough funds to hire a tractor to plow the ground, and the students have planted the garden. The beginning of the rains is an encouragement to everyone, and we ask that you pray with us that they will continue and a great harvest will be produced.
At this special time of the year, we do wish each of you a very
Merry Christmas and a Happy and Blessed New Year
Yours in His love and service,
The Johnsons