Dear friends, family~ loved ones!
These last few weeks, we’ve been on a type of furlough…even though we’re in the States, we’ve been taking time off ministry to attend to some important things! In May, we sold our house in Seaside~ we had to take care of many details getting it ready. It had been rented the entire time we were in Europe, and there was much damage done. After weeks of fixing it up, we put it on the marked and prayed. Within the first day, we had 6 offers! God really blessed our timing. The whole time in Europe we had considered selling it, but the market was so bad, we couldn’t.
We have been praying about where to relocate (a less expensive area, closer to family, etc.) We have been looking in Northern California area, praying and waiting on God for answers. Meanwhile, we are living in our friend’s converted garage/studio. We have been very grateful for their abundant generosity!!!
In June, we took care of many neglected needs. Teresa finally got on medicare. She got checked out with doctors, and had some dental work done. Being back in the American medical system has been a challenge. But we thank God that He’s taking care of our needs!
On June 30th, we celebrated our 41st wedding anniversary! God has been so faithful over the years to give us love for one another. God is the author of love, and when we are receiving His love, we can give it out to one another. We are so thankful for one another, as we have been best of friends since 1972! (When we met).
We also have spent this last month preparing for our son, Jonny’s wedding! He married Amy Rich, a precious girl he met at college. After 4 years of knowing each other, they “tied the knot.” They had a beautiful wedding up in Redding, CA. Although it was very hot, our hearts were filled with joy for them! He’s the last and youngest son to be married. So now we have four sons, four daughter in laws, and seven grandchildren! How blessed we are!
We had a family reunion during this busy wedding time. We spent an extra day after the wedding to all be together. There’s nothing like being with all the family at once. It is our greatest joy. Someday, we will be together forever, with no more separation or loss. Joyful day that will be!!
God has taught us a lot during this time. We have learned to be content in whatever circumstance we are in. Like Paul said, “I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little.” Phil 4:2. Christ is our contentment, and “godliness with contentment is great gain!
Although we feel a bit displaced, we know God will provide us with a home. We know that home is where our heart is, and our heart is in Christ….therefore, He is our home. At times it is difficult, being on the road so much without a base…but we know it will come. All in His time…
You can be praying with us, for wisdom, and discernment for where to relocate and for the right home. God knows our needs, and desires. We want to be where we will best glorify Him, be used by Him, and be near family.
As the days seem to be getting darker in our nation, we don’t focus on the problems, but on the problem solver. What the world needs most, is Christ. There’s no government or system that will be our solution. Only Jesus can change men’s hearts. We know that He is doing a work in hearts all over the world. Our responsibility is to live Christ, to share Christ, and to love as Christ to a needy world.
Don’t let the news get you down. Fix your eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.” He who began a good work in your, will complete it!”
We thank God for you, your prayers, your support,and your encouragement. You are such a huge blessing in our lives. Your love for us is sustaining, motivating, and encouraging.
Who is our hope, joy, or prize that we can brag about in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Isn't it you? You are our glory and joy! 1 Thess 2:19-20
With Jesus’ love,
Bruce and Teresa
