[Sanford News] A Little Update

I wanted to send you a quick update with a few prayer requests and just let you know what is happening over here in PNG.  We have been real busy and we have a lot on our plates coming up in the next few months.  We just had my in-laws (Kennells) here for a visit and we had a great time with them.  In a little over a month my parents are coming for a week visit here in Kaboman and then we all will fly out for a regional conference where my dad will be the speaker.  The kids are getting excited to see Grammy and Grampy since it has been 3 years since they saw them last!

 

Once my parents leave, we have a couple weeks until we have another language evaluation and the kick-off of our literacy program as well.  This means exciting times for us but also the onslaught of a lot of work and preparation.  We are thrilled to be moving along mainly because we know these are all major steps in the timeline leading up to us sharing the gospel with the Siar.  The further we go, I am more freaked out but also more relaxed (talk about multiple personality disorder).  What I mean is that the responsibility of the work can be overwhelming but I am truly convinced more and more that the Lord must go before us and provide the means to do this because I just really don’t have what it takes!  It is also cool to work on these things as a team too.  It is encouraging to see God use the gifts he has given us and filling gaps with the different personalities and engiftments on the team. 

 

Speaking of the literacy program, the community here has already begun work to clear the land and prepare the site for our school building.  It was a neat opportunity for us and the community to work together to raise the money and materials for the school building and now we are getting close to the actual construction.  It is neat to see them get excited about learning to read and write and beginning this “new thing” for their community.

 

We have a lot to be thankful for this Easter.  I went to one of the churches here and heard their Good Friday service and the message given only solidified my already strong conviction of their need for the gospel here.  Imagine an Easter service with no mention of sin, atonement, sacrifice, salvation, grace, or redemption!  We really appreciate all of you and the part you are playing in keeping us here and working with us for the sake of the Siar people.  They might not clearly know Him and His work for them now, but that day will come – of that I am sure.

 

Again thanks so much for all of you and the role you play in this ministry! 

 

Lane for all of us

 

PS – a little picture of my kids for all those living in Arizona