We've had an enjoyable week as a family, especially since our usual routine has been severely changed. We have, however, tried to give Jasmine the continuity and stability she needs. No doubt you can imagine that e-mail has been a wee bit difficult for me, and I apologize profusely for not replying to the e-mail you've sent. Once I'm in a better position to send and receive you can count on a reply : -)

Our first Stateside Assignment (STAS) was in 1998, and we visited several eastern states during that time. Our last STAS saw us in seven or eight different states, and Jasmine enjoyed the variety. This time around, however, we're coming to realize that Jasmine wants "roots." I commented to her that "I grew up here" and heard her ask, "Daddy, where did I grow up?" Yes, even though she's still growing up, I really don't have an answer for her.

Shirin and I have been contemplating our next STAS two years from now and where that will occur. Jasmine will be 7 and will need to make those family contacts so, hopefully, we'll be able to settle down in this same area so she can re-visit cousins, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and friends she's making at a local church. If anything, my pragmatism may pay off again <g>.

Sunday was a great day as I had the joy and privilege of baptizing my youngest sister and her husband two weeks after they surrendered their lives to Jesus. They also said they wanted to commit themselves to bringing up their daughter (my niece) in a home where Jesus is Lord so we had a parent dedication right after their baptism.

A "multi-purpose" afternoon barbeque was next and did Jasmine have fun wishing so many newly found uncles a happy Father's Day. We then had a wonderful evening sharing our presentation with a local group of believers. The next day began their Vacation Bible School, Jasmine's first, and we have the opportunity to participate as missions leader and teacher of 5-year-old children. One of my nephews has been attending and, wow, I hope he comes to a positive decision to follow Jesus!

Matthew 24:14

* Be sure to sign up for the Wednesday Weekly.

+ You continued praying that we would find our strength and rest in Him and in Him alone... there is truly no other way! Thank you for praying!

+ You asked God to give our families a day of relaxation as we enjoyed a local theme park... it was a relaxing day or at least one of a different pace, and we appreciate your intercession.

+ You prayed with us as we continued preparing for an upcoming Vacation Bible School (VBS), especially that our focus would be on meeting the needs of the children who would hear His story for the first time... how exciting it was to hear Shirin say she was discovering new things with each opportunity of preparation. Preparations continue, and we see the difference your praying makes. Thank you!

+ You prayed with us that my sister and brother-in-law's baptism would draw others to know Jesus... what an opportunity to meet other family members! While I don't know for sure if anyone has been drawn to Jesus, there has been an increase in conversation about spiritual matters.

+ You asked God to draw the lost to Himself as VBS kicked off with a Saturday carnival... the carnival was ear-to-ear smiles for Jasmine even though we didn't see anyone drawn to Jesus that day. It may still be early!

+ You joined me in giving thanks for the seventeen wonderful years of married life with Shirin. That Friday of June 19, 1987 seems so close!

+ As we entered the week of VBS, you asked God to speak to those who would be attending... if he hasn't spoken to anyone, He has certainly spoken to me; however, I do believe His presence is at VBS. I can sense an awe of God as I listen to the "racers and trainers (students and teachers)," especially as they recognize His hand in bringing things together.

<T H I S  W E E K><

<>< Continue praying for my sister and brother-in-law (grace) to experience and recognize the lifestyle changes the Holy Spirit brings to new believers.

<>< Pray for my nephew to find salvation in Jesus this week in vacation Bible School.

<>< Ask God to give us another great weekend with a faithful family of Wednesday Weekly Wintercessors.

* I am unable to stay online long enough to retrieve a new people group; however, once that changes, your specific intercession will be much needed!

CALENDAR UPDATES

<If you're not receiving our bimonthly snail-mail newsletter, let us know so we can send it to you!><

* I regret to inform you that my paper copies are, uh, in Jerusalem and my soft copies are inaccessible : -(