Experiencing God in the big and little things.

As I’m sitting here writing this update, I am quite distracted (but don’t mind it) by watching Shepherd explore our little courtyard. There are leaves to be examined, sand to syphon through tiny fingers, dog ears to not-so-gently tug on, and new found strength in some wobbly legs to test out. He’s not worried about what he will produce today, he’s not loosing sleep over next month’s schedule, and our finances aren’t consuming his mind. He is present. He has complete faith that every need will be taken care of, and in this freedom he can experience the wonder and awe that is every day life. ( I also just watched him eat a handful of sand, so he’s no sage ). He’s a kid, living in the joy of being a child.

This is the invitation the Lord is extending to our family everyday. The things that Shepherd is not worried about I find myself loosing sleep over at times. But the Lord graciously pulls me back in, reminding me that I am His child first. And the wonder that is everyday life has more to teach us than we could imagine.

A lot of our everyday life has looked the same this first quarter. We continue to serve in the YWAM Office where we help with all things logistical. A big portion of this is helping move mail for our staff, donations, and house kits to Mexico. Who doesn’t love receiving a card or package? Our over 250 staff and students are no exception, so even though it isn’t as exciting as everyday ministry in the past, the Lord continues to show us the importance of where he has placed us in the present. YWAM builds about 30 houses a month in Mexico, which translates to lots of behind the scenes work:) Ronnie continues to help purchase vehicles for the YWAM fleet, and I continue to clean hospitality, remembering it is such a gift that our bases get to host families, speakers from around the world, and students coming to grow in their unique callings.

We have also been blessed to serve in some other ways. About a month ago we did a Homes of Hope house build with two other YWAM families. This is one of Ronnie’s sweet spots, so anytime we get to build it feels like a blessing.  This was Shepherd’s 2nd house build, and he was a champ. He tried out some painting and hammering, examined every rock on the property, and made lots of new friends. The Blanco Villalobos family is out of a dilapidated trailer and  now owns a clean, safe, and beautiful home. A gift that will change the generations to come in their family. We are honored to be a small part of this life-changing gift.

We have also had the privilege to lead two different debriefs since the new year. The first was for dear friends who have transitioned out of Madagascar, and our second was with sweet friends from Ensenada. We love these weeks where we can give the gift of listening. Life can be so fast paced, and messy. It is an honor to provide space for people to slow down, get a different perspective on their own stories and hear from the Holy Spirit. We had no idea when we had our own debrief, 7 months after Orion died, that this process would become such an important part of our ministry. We are grateful for it.

Other highlights of the last couple months are friends and family. My parents came out for our second debrief to watch Shepherd. So they got uninterrupted Shep time the first half of the days, and then we did some exploring the second half of the days. It made the week extra special. And last month we got to see dear friends that came down from Gig Harbor. The visit was short but oh, so life-giving. Deep friendships mean so much to Ronnie and I, and the Lord has blessed us with some really beautiful ones over the years.

We continue to convene the North American Mission Adventures circle, which has programs that are kicking off all over the states. Hundreds of students will be going through the program, serving the least and the lost, and experiencing God in their own lives. Please keep them in your prayers. Between the time I had started this post and now we have made our way out to Ohio to be with Ronnie's family. His mom had open heart surgery last week and is beginning the long recovery process. We will be here for several weeks helping with recovery. We are grateful for the flexibility to be with family during times like this. We are happy to say that Shelly is doing really well, but would appreciate your prayers as she continues to heal.

Looking forward to next quarter, we have a couple teachings, some more debriefs, and a conference in Montana. Thank you for continuing to walk with and partner with our family. The call the Lord has put on us, is not just for our family, because we certainly couldn't do it on our own. Thank you for answering this call as well. We love you all dearly.

Prayer Requests

• Our family and marriage (health, intentional time, & more kiddos)

• Ministry, our upcoming teachings, & preparation time

• The last year has been hard on our finances. With increased living expenses and upcoming ministry travel we need to increase our monthly budget by $1,400. Would you pray and consider joining our sending team? Please reach out to us if you want any more information or just want to say hi, we LOVE hearing from you.

May the Lord bless you and keep you. Ronnie, Jamie, & Shepherd