Sunday, January 30, 2011

Wot was that?

So today Andy and I were introduced to the awesomeness of Ethiopian cuisine. Wot was part of the stew platter we had. It was completely a feast, and I am in love. It was so good, and to top it off....the coffee was OUTSTANDING!! We had lunch with Dr. Strauss, Dr. Anderson and his family, people going to Ethiopia, and people who have been to Ethiopia. It was such a great time, and Andy and I came away encouraged and excited about this upcoming experience. Please continue to pray for us as all the pieces begin to come together. We covet your prayers, and again request that you join us on this journey!

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

As the World Turns...to Ethiopia and beyond.

So today I found out that my time off has been approved for this summer!! Wahoo!! That means that it looks like I am Ethiopia bound! I am looking forward to hearing from CURE and excited to see what is in store! Please be in prayer, because this is a big undertaking...one that Andy and I are not able to do on our own, but only through Christ. Please be praying for the preparation of our hearts, safety in travel, provision, and most importantly, that God would make us usable for Him! Lord willing as part of our trip, we are hoping to end our time in Isreal. This summer has many pieces yet to fall in place, but they are begining. We are excited for you to take this journey with us via blogging.

Monday, January 24, 2011

Grief Shared...

You know...loss, pain, and struggles are difficult; no one will challenge this. Culturally, I believe we as Americans struggle to accept loss. We don't know how to deal with it, we do not know how to grieve well.
This has carried over to our Christian community at times as well, however, and we have lost the art of grieving. In ancient times, they gave time, respect and care for those who grieved. Andy and I have personally been challenged with this at the present with precious friends who lost their twins before they had the chance to even be born. What is our role?
A while ago, I was moved by the Jewish custom of just sitting with someone, no saying anything in their grief. Being present. This moved me, because sometimes, there just are no words to say. There is nothing we can personally do, but pray and be there.
As I have seen friends gathering around, to love on those who have suffered loss, I can not help but be moved by the importance of community. By the love we can share with each other at such a time. God created us to not go through this life alone. When we neglect the importance of community, we reject the beauty and healing God provides. We are not made to live this life alone.

Sunday, January 23, 2011

Changing of the Heart......

So here I am (Kristyn), and I have been a Christian for a long time. But God continues to reveal to me, parts of my heart that still need to be surrendered to Him. I can be soo resitant, so hardened to change. For any of you who know me, know this to be true. Continue to pray for Andy and I that He would continue to work in our hearts, especially in preparation for this summer, that we would let Him guide.

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Ethiopia Bound....

So my friends, there is some exciting news that Andy and I would love to share with you. As you know, Andy and I have been in Dallas, TX for the last 2.5 years living life and going to school. It has been an incredible journey so far, and we continue to be excited about where God is taking us. As you know, we do not see the whole road, just the part of the path that we are on. This part of the path appears to be leading us towards Ethiopia this summer. Andy wants to eventually teach, and has an opportunity to possibly teach there for an extended ammount of time. I also am excited about the opportunity to join Andy for part of the time, and possibly work in a CURE international pediatric hospital. I have always wanted to do this, and we are both thrilled with the opportunity laid before us. We are hoping to blog through this experience, and would ask that you keep us in your prayers.