Measuring Wealth

When we moved to Highfields we know God was bringing us home, for a time of replenishing. He spoke to us about moving back home and restoring what had been lost to us. We have been here a month now and we see his providence in so many ways. Yes, in tangible ways by paying for our relocation, providing Don with a great job, opening up a whole new world for Avon for me, placing Jack in a school with a dynamic and focused teacher, introducing us to a new church family, and seeing Sam settle and regain his confidence following his surgery only a few short months ago. Honestly, I could go on and on, but you get the picture. This scripture has been pivotal to me in the past two weeks. It is in complete retrospect to what the world teaches us.

The result of humility and the fear of the Lord is wealth, honour and life.(Prov. 22:4)

When I wake in the morning, the words resound through my mind and settle gently into my heart like a renewing gift, a gentle reminder each day that our life here is God's gift and it is good.

With what we have endured in recent years in regard to our travels with MAF, moving from home to home, town to town, state to state, Sam's surgery, and Don's work; this promise from God is like a refreshing drink of water to us. It is reviving our parched souls after a long journey.  Everything is beautiful to us right now; being closer to family, the weather, our new home, new friends, because we know we are in the place where God's blessing resides. And so just as our Pittsworth home was called 'God's Rest', this place is 'God's Blessing'.

We have not despised any part of our journey in fact we have relished in the people we have met and the places we have lived. It was not a fickle journey but one of obedience and love. 

We travel to Brisbane on Friday for Sam's heart review with his cardiologist. Please pray with us for a safe trip and an outstanding outcome for Sam. That his heart shall be strong and endure for the longest time.

Rugged up and happy for Jack's first athletics day. He missed last year's due to us moving around.

Jack came 2nd in his sprint, though they only give participation ribbons in the lower years.

Sam joins in hopscotch at Jack's school.

Jack running in his relay where he caught up where his team was lagging.

The new book I contributed to is now released and I received my author copies from the UK.

Sam is just growing up so much and the boys have only grown closer in our travels.

We are rediscovering gardening. Oh, how I have missed my garden.

Exceptionally God News

We have exciting news to share.  Today was the day that the MAF candidate committee met to discuss our application to MAF, with the information that they have.  This includes our application forms of considerable length, our medicals, psyche evaluation and interviews.  This means that is includes all of the requirements except Don's flying capabilities.
To tell you the truth I had actually forgotten about it today. It was not that the day was exceptionally busy, it just didn't pass my mind.  We were at peace either way as we know God called us and that His hand is upon it all.

We received an email this afternoon to tell us that the committee unanimously agrees that we should continue to pursue the calling to serve with MAF and that they encourage us every step of the way! 

They know that Sam has further surgery ahead and will need a letter of review down the track from his cardiologist, but other than that they are very happy with our application.

Tonight we have a resounding peace and assurance from God that all is in His hands.  What may look like a messy journey is actually His most beautiful work.  I stand astounded once again at His faithfulness. 

Thank you Father that you have not left us orphans.  Thank you that you are ever faithful in all that you call us to do.  Thank you that you speak to the spirits of those who serve you at MAF, and told them of our calling to serve with them, for Your sake and Your glory.  We take this next step, in blessed assurance that you love us. Even when we doubt ourselves, we may trust in You.

Taking The Scenic Route

This weekend has seen us face many new challenges, so I thought it must be about time that I share them here.  As most of you know I blog to share our family life, to rally people to pray, and in the process I work things out with God, hoping to help others as well.

Our call to MAF is not going to take the path we originally thought. Over the last month any things have happened to bring about this change.  The two most pertinent being:

• God has brought to Don' and my attention that it is not possible for Don to complete Bible College this year, as well as finishing the flying training.  For us to continue our course of action and do this is would all need to be completed this year, as otherwise we would have no income after that.

• We received news on Friday that the cost of the remaining of the flying course has now increased by $6000-$10000.  This is when the door was finally closed to us following our present course of action.  God has closed the door. 

It is not the enemy.  We feel at peace.  At first we were disappointed, but as we waited on God and he spoke to our hearts we realised, this is His way.  And His way, is ALWAYS better then ours, no matter how it looks at the time.  We know God can miraculously supply the money needed and already we have had offers of people wanting to help. But we cannot, when we know it is not God's will that we do. 
For the last month, God has been talking to us about open doors, and the scripture Jeremiah 29:11 has been ringing out loud.  So we know now that God has closed this door, that another will shortly open. 

So what does this mean...

• It means that we are still moving toward serving with MAF, but at a much slower rate.  WE have asked MAF to give us an indication on our suitability to serve with them, using the information they have (interviews, medical, psyche etc).  If this is favourable, then we will continue to pursue this calling. 

• The open door we are waiting for is a job for Don.  We trust God that he has something ready somewhere, for him to go to.  It may mean that we need to move again. In fact it is highly probable.

• Bible college will be completed by distance at Don's own pace.

• Don will continue to fly now until he achieves his Commercial Pilot's License (CPL).  At this point he will cease flying at ACMA and just continue with Bible College until the end of Semester or until he finds work.

We have been through much this last weekend with all of this; first shock, then disappointment, then humility, then a sense of feeling lost.  So we just both held on tight and sat in God's lap listening to his heartbeat.  No profound sense of revelation came.  Just His steady heartbeat and then finally His amazing peace.  We know we have made the right decisions.  Now we just wait and act patiently for Him to point us in the right direction.

We have not failed.  In God's eyes, we have done all He has asked, and that makes us His obedient children.  He has blessed us here with great friends and an awesome church.  The people we have met have impacted out lives and we have impacted theirs.  That is what missions is all about anyway.  Even if this was the whole purpose to us being called to MAF, that is enough for me. 

We don't pretend to have this altogether, in fact we are more unsure of our future here than we have ever been.  But I know where my future is secure.  Jesus is building us a home in heaven and it is beyond what my mind can ever comprehend.  I know that when I see it, I will crumble at his feet and cry, because He knows me better than I know myself. We may not have much treasure left this side of heaven, but I know Jesus is storing up mine with Him. He sees our future and He knows what is to come.  And so we will trust Him now, as we always have and rest in the fact that he has plans to prosper and bless.

If you think of us, please pray for us in this time of endings and new beginnings. 

xx Nicole

Bubbling New Beginnings

This week is one of new beginnings for us.

Jack begins school this week for the first time.

Don will be a commercial pilot by the end of the week, once he passes his practical exams.  He begins study at MST (Ministry training) on February 14th.

Sam and I will have time together, as we have never had before.  He will also start Kinder for  a half day next week.

And I...

and I...

and I...

it makes me wonder what I actually did before I had children.  Oh, don't worry I have plenty to do. 

I will have ample time to continue with the writing of my new book.

I look forward to visiting and spending time with more of the families we have met here,

and anything else that God asks me to do.

I am not in a hurry to fill up my spare moments, I am sure God already has plans that I don't know of as yet.  God's diary is often very different to mine-thankfully.

Last year was not an easy one for us.  Though we lived in the place of God's blessing, there was much opposition to what we were doing. There were many times that we questioned God and each other, about our calling to MAF, the work I was doing with Sam's Heart, financial decisions, and the boys schooling.  I have made a choice to leave the past behind us and now I look forward to new things, new blessing, and new things for God. 

Sometimes when you walk with God, He brings you through times of testing, times of trial, times of learning obedience.  Let me explain, this year He asked:

Will you follow me and serve with MAF?

Will you sell your home and use ALL of the money to fund it?

Will you move away from your new friends and family to do it?

Will you trust me to provide for you?

Will you trust me with Sam, knowing that I will work out all of the details?

Will you keep looking to me when the circumstance for success seem doubtful and you even fail?

Will you speak and not be silent about my faithfulness?

Will you trust me to make a way, when there seems to be now way?

Will you trust me in your weakness, to show my power and strength?

We have said yes, to all of this this past year and much more.  And sometimes it looked like we were failing.

We have learned that when it looks like you are failing on the outside, it is time to dig your heels in and press forward. 

DO NOT STOP!

KEEP YOUR EYES ON GOD AND KEEP MOVING ON.

When God pours out his blessing, do not bottle up what you have inside of you, in the fear that you may run empty.  As you receive, give it away to whoever you meet, knowing that God will sustain and fill your cup to overflowing.

Keep trusting, keep believing, keep hoping, loving and having faith.  God will do the rest.

Jesus replied, “Anyone who drinks this water will soon become thirsty again. But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.” (John 4:13-14)

Can you hear me bubbling?  You can't buy this living water, but it is yours for the taking... if you know Jesus.

A Chat Over A Cuppa

Don has been back at ACMA (Australian Center for Mission Aviation) now since the 9th of January.  In that time he has been working on doing Commercial Pilot License NAVs (planned trips), his Cessna 206 endorsement, and IFR training.  He is really happy with how it is all progressing.  We have been so blessed that Ian Deed, one of the flight instructors has been down helping out, as he is a very encouraging and supportive man of God.  Don is on target for achieving his Commercial Pilot's Licence before he starts at MST (Melbourne School of Theology) on February 14th (my birthday!).  He is very focused, but much more at ease than he was last semester completing the theory tests.  Praise God for that!

Last week, we all had our medicals for the application to MAF (Mission Aviation Fellowship), the kids and I included.  The went extremely well and as a bonus, majority of it was bulk billed by our very sympathetic doctor.  When we rang to collect the results for the blood tests, we were asked to make and appointment with the doctor. OH OH!  Two days later was the earliest we could see her.  We prayed that all would be well, and once again I had to contend with fear.  On the morning we arrived for the appointment to find there was a miscommunication and the tests were excellent, all of them.  She just wanted to advise us that if we were heading overseas we would need injections!   We will think about injections if we are accepted to serve with MAF.

Jack heads off to begin school at Yarra Glen Primary School on the 2nd February.  He is very pleased with his uniform, shoes and lunch box. All else is provided by the school.  I am so very pleased with that.  it is so much simpler.  He is very keen to start, so that he can play with new friends and learn to read.

Sam is growing up more and more.  He sings out loud when I swing him on the swing at the park, at the top of his lungs.  His favourite song is 'This is the sound of a warrior', by Andrew Ironside.  Sam adores music, and we cannot ride in the car without the CD player going.  He makes sure of it. He also goes down the big boy slides by himself now.    He will also be attending Kinder/Kindy (depending where you live), on a Wednesday morning for 2 and half hours.  He has a new lunchbox and is very excited.

I have just started writing again today after taking a months break.  I really needed the head space and rest.  I am so pleased that I did make the effort to stop.  I feel much refreshed and like I can finish what I have started with God on this project.    Below are a photo of some of my favourite things, bits and bobs that have made my life enjoyable over the last few weeks. I love tea. My husband bought me this six place setting tea set from the local antique store for Christmas.  The Mark of the Lion series by Francine Rivers, had me loving God and desiring to serve Him all over again.  And many happy hours of Jane Austen were enjoyed over the Christmas break also.

I wonder, what are you favourite things at the moment? 

About MAF

This is a short video, about what Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) does.  In the next few years, we are training to serve with MAF.  In the years to come, this is what God has called us to do.  I look forward to sharing more about what God has laid on our hearts, over time.  At this stage,we feel God calling us to serve in the very north of our own country, Australia.

Faith in Action

We are in the process of completing the MAF application papers.  It is an extensive process which includes medicals, psychological profiling, a CV, as well as large application document, in which we need to provide an autobiography of our life to date.  We are enjoying most of it.  I completed part of the psychological testing yesterday, and Don will complete it in two weeks time.  It's quite interesting, and tells you more about yourself while you do it.  Or maybe I am just weird, and like this sort of thing.

There is one thing that I have been dealing with in the back of my mind all week.  It is something that I need to ask you to stand with me in faith for. 

On the medical forms there is a declaration that the doctor needs to sign.  The declarations states that we may be asked to serve in areas that have high heat, humidity, a lack of immediate access to medical care, as well as social and physical challenges.

Do you see my concern?  No doctor in his right mind would sign a declaration saying that these conditions would be OK for Sam.  I am not worried about these things as I know God will look after Sam, and always has.  My concern lies with the fact that our acceptance to MAF may be hinged on this medical report.  I know that God has called us to serve MAF, it is undeniable.  And so each day we are stepping out in obedience, knowing full well that in the world's eyes it looks foolish and folly.  That if we were to look at the hand we have been dealt, we would throw it in.  Yet, we have been asked by God to keep our eyes firmly fixed on him, and not at our situation.  We have watched in in the last few months as CASA has continually tried to deny Don a medical certificate, only to watch him pass test after test with no problem.  Why should we believe that Sam will be any different?  Surely if God has called us, he has a place that is handpicked by him, ready for us to serve. 

It is a battle for me, because as I fill in the forms I am painfully aware that my little boy's body is not the same as everyone else, that his limitations are more pronounced.  And yet, time after time, as we have his check ups we see his heart function is tremendous, and improving. 

Then he said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow me. (Luke 9:23)

Turn from your selfish ways...
If I am to follow God in his leading, I must turn from my own thoughts, my own doubts,  and my own circumstances.  This means letting go of the worry and standing firm, even when the enemy whispers to me that it is a joke to even complete the papers.   

take up your cross...

The cross is represtative of our identiy and salvation in Christ Jesus.   I must live as Chrsit has asked us to and in the knowledge that I live in the Kingdom.  I must dare to be different and walk in the new life I have been given daily. This is what what it means to pick up your cross. 

and follow me...

Only Jesus can hold my gaze.  If I rest my eyes, even for a second on the what lays before me, I will be undone.  The amazing story that we were told on Sunday at church, was of the eagle and how it is the only bird designed with special glands in it's eyes so it can look directly at the sun.  All of the pesky birds that try to attack the eagle are undone when the eagle powers upward toward the sun.  One by one they all drop away becuase they are not designed the same as the eagle.  
I need to be just like this eagle.  I need to keep powering upward toward the sun, and as I do all of these things will drop away. 

Living in God's Kingdom is not easy, but it is rewarding.  Will you stand in faith with me? Will you pray with me and encourage me with some scripture? 

A Missions Update

Don is studying a subject called aircraft performance, with an exam coming up in the next week or so. We have had to realign our thinking in regard to him finishing his flying this year, as his medical still has not come through from CASA. In the end we came to the conclusion that the only time limit there was, was the one we had placed on ourselves, and as we always find out, God's ways and times are well above our ways.  So in light of our prayers, Don is now concentrating completing all of the theory exams he has left (I think there are 5), the remainder of this year, with the odd flying component thrown in.  This will mean that next year he can complete the flying while he is studying the ministry at MST.  The Certificate IV in Ministry means Don will spend three full days at the College next year, and then have a day a week to put into flying if needed.  We are always amazed at God's plans.  Now that Don will complete the course in this manner, he will be current with his flying all the way through to the end of next year, with little need to do extra to remain current.  God truly is awesome.  The difficulty in obtaining Don's medical, has been used for God's purposes, and our good.  GOD IS AWESOME!

In relation to the class 1 medical from CASA, they have cleared Don's heart, and have now sent him off to an ophthalmologist. A what you may say?  My question exactly.  An eye doctor for short.  If we had known that they had wanted this, we would have started the process months ago!  Thankfully, God has provided an appointment this week. So hopefully this will all be sorted out quickly and they will stop trying to delay the issuing of his medical.  We head off to this appointment this afternoon.  Your prayers would be valued highly.

We had an eventful morning Sunday when we turned up for church half way through, as we forgot about changing to daylight saving.  Our meeting was very quick, as we missed all of the worship : (, but we were blessed int he afternoon by spending time with some wonderful new friends. We spent close to seven hours, sharing what God has done in our lives and watching our children play.  It was such a blessing to us, and we look forward to sharing more times like these.

Jack heads back to Kinder on Monday.  This week we have been doing some gardening, playing, cleaning, painting and walking to town and the park.  We always meet plenty of interesting people along the way.  The trees are bursting into new growth, and the floral show is prolific, as the warmer weather meanders it's way into the area. I have read two wonderful books this week, both missions orientated, My Seventh Monsoon by Naomi Reed, and And the Word Came With Power, by Joanne Shelter. They are both equally inspiring if you get the opportunity.

We have also started the MAF application process, which is quite a lengthy and detailed exercise.  I will be sitting a psyche test on Monday.  Don and I are taking turns so that we can look after the boys.  Apparently is runs for about 2 and a half hours.  You prayers for this would also be appreciated.  I am looking forward to find out if I clinically insane, or not.  (That was meant to be funny).

Well I will leave it there, and let you know that we are more in love with God than ever.  There has been so much happen that has been obstructing our path since we have arrived in Melbourne, but in hindsight we see his hand in all of it.  We must keep striding forward, one step at a time, toward Him, in the meantime reaching out, and helping along those who stand along the way.

Bless you all heaps

(¯`v´¯)
`*.¸.*´
¸.•´¸.•*¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•´ .•´ ¸¸.•¨¯` Nicole

MAF Interview

We had our first MAF interview today.  Two lovely people from the MAF Cairns team, chatted to us about MAF, and then asked us questions.  It was quite informal and fun (secretly). It went for about an hour and half and as we spoke, the words we shared were typed. 
One thing that people quickly learn about Don and I, is that we love to share.  Ooooh boy, do we love to share.  The poor man had a hard type keeping up with me on the keyboard. They asked us about growing up, our journey to date both with God and without.  Our calling to MAF, and about Don's training and mine. I actually had a great time. 
As Don completes his training over the next months,we will complete the MAF application process, which is quite a process in itself.  The next interview in April next year, is a more formal process, and in between then we will complete psycho psyche tests, and medicals etc.

Please talk to God about these things for us:

• Don is heading off for the week next week to do night flying and is in preparation for that.  Pray that his medical comes through quickly, his mind is focused and for him to be refreshed.  He is very tired.
• I have a book signing at Koorong Blackburn on Saturday.  Pray God sends people to be encouraged.
• Mum and Dad B are arriving for the week on Sunday.  Pray for safe travels and great times.
• For Jack to get better from his cold (that developed yesterday), and for Sam not to get it.

Awesome News!

Today was crunch time for us.  We have moved interstate knowing Don has been called by God to do the flying course to serve with MAF.  He has been training, and we have been paying the large bills that come with it.  All of this time waiting for CASA to approve Don's medical.  They found an anomaly on one of his ECG readings, and this caused a number of appointments with doctors and a cardiologist.  Today he went to the cardiologist for his final check - a stress test.  And....

There is nothing wrong with his heart!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We had a quiet assurance, but still the cloud lingered over our shoulders for the last 5 weeks.  Now the cloud has lifted, and shortly he will be approved to fly solo.  Praise God for his faithfulness.
Many times over the last weeks the doubts have come, especially when I am about to pay another huge flying bill. 'What if this doesn't work out?'.  And each time I would answer back, 'It will be well, God has promised, his word always comes to pass.' And then I would pay the bill.  Faith is lived out in actions.

 Don's a happy camper in the Cessna

 Sam, calling in his position.

 Jack, climbing the tree.

 Sam helping Daddy mow the footpath.

What We'll Be Doing

 On our way to church this morning, at the Maroondah Resovoir, Healesville.

So now you know where we are, I thought I would let you know a little more about what we are doing.  God has called us collectively, as a family to serve with Mission Aviation Fellowship.  In order to do this, we have moved interstate to Victoria where Don will be studying for the next 18 months.  You can read more about our calling here.


Don will be spending the remainder of 2011 at Coldstream Airport, at the Australian Center of Mission Aviation completing his commercial pilot's licence.  He will be completing both a Certificate IV in Aviation, and then a Diploma of Mission Aviation -Flight.  He has a big workload ahead of him, and needs a whole lot of God's grace to get through the rest of this year.  He is excited and is focused, and I am looking to support him however I can.  He has just organised uniforms, and has spent the last week getting to know everyone, figuring out a plan for his flight course, and waiting on clearance from CASA for his medical.  Next year will be spent at the Melbourne School of Theology, completing a Certificate IV in Ministries and involves such subjects as-Old and New Testaments, Missions, Discipleship, Church History, and Pastoral Care, among others.  At the completion of the course at the end of 2012, we will undertake the step of moving to serve with Mission Aviation Fellowship.  This first involves some introductory work, and meeting with the supporters God is providing for us to do His work.   From what we have discovered here, most of the flight students serve initially in Arnhem Land, Northern Territory, accruing flight hours and experience and doing God's work there. 

I will be supporting Don as much as I am able, as well as participating in and helping with any activities and ministries alongside him as he studies.  I will also be at home with Jack and Sam, making this an exciting but also stable part of our journey.  Routine is really important for our little guys.  I also look forward to further promoting Sam's Heart,  and sharing our story with anyone who will listen. There are many Word Bookstores down this way, so I will be contacting them when we settle down, to look for opportunities for book signings etc.  I am also looking forward to continuing my writing, as God has placed a new book in my heart.

Jack will continue with Prep, hopefully at a school (if they will accept him) or at home if that doesn't work out.  I am really praying that they will accept our request for special circumstances. Jack has decided he likes our new home because it has a worm farm.

Sam is enjoying our new home and loves the central heating.  He looks really well and both of the boys are healthy.  He is the talkative one out of the two and is constantly chatting away.  He will be at home with me during this next part of our journey. 

I love that you are sharing this journey with us.  I love that God calls us all to different walks so that we all work together for His glory. 

Bless you all


Nicole xx

Needing Prayer

So we have moved to Victoria.  We have arrived to find that the house we had lined up is not  ready and we are living in temporary college accommodation until we find a new home.  We are comfortable, warm and a little frazzled, but we are finding our feet and we have more peace in our hearts than we did two days ago.  Our shipping container full of our only belongings, is sitting in the unprepared home's driveway and we are in the midst of inspecting, applying and praying for a home.  We hope to hear back about one of the homes today.  We do not have internet access, or a home phone line, or a postal address for that matter-no fixedabode would be my best way of describing it.  I am typing this from a new found friend's computer so that I can update you on our circumstances and beg you for your prayers. 

Please pray that God would continue to open doors for us to find a home very soon-there are complications with our goods being on another person's property.

Please pray that we all stay well and fighting fit.

Pray for Don as he begins his training today at the Australian Center for Mission Aviation.

Pray for me to keep these two little boys occupied and their hearts and heads as settled as possible.

Pray that Jack will be able to attend school and they will have special consideration for him to start Prep.  He misses out on the date cut off by eight days.

Pray most of all that God will be glorified in all we do in both the good times and the turbulent.  He is placing amazing people in our path each day to help us.

xx Nicole

Relocation and Royalty

All is going according to God's plan.  As it is with God's timing, I watch as every little step falls into place.  We have found a home in Yarra Glen, Victoria, close to where Don will finish his flight training.  Don's medical for flying is in the midst of being processed and issued.  The car has been serviced and has two new tyres, ready for our long drive. There is a story with this car, it was a gift from God, and I will share that story another time.  The sale of of our home is progressing despite the enemy's many attempts to throw a spanner in the works, we are still packing in faith.  We have had wonderful friends in our church, rally around us and help us out with the move, offering to look after the boys, giving us financial support and giving us accommodation for our final nights in Pittsworth.  It reminds me of those final scenes in the Indiana Jones movie-The Last Crusade, when they have to walk the stepping stones in the right way to make it across the trap.  If we view the stepping stones using the right vision-God vision, then we will know the path and the steps are ordered clearly one after another.  Each step has it's place in the order and if you try and step outside of that you risk danger. However if we walk on the steps in the correct order, only blessing can come.  God is giving us wisdom, please continue to pray for us in that area.

We also had a delightful Saturday afternoon with some of the MAF family in Fernvale over the weekend.  There were representatives there from Cairns, Arnhem Land, Gold Coast and all over.  We caught up with old friends made new ones, prayed together, ate great food and encouraged on and other in the paths God has us on.

In the midst of of all of this the boys are coping quite well.  They have moments when they grow a little sentimental, due to saying good bye to very good friends.  But we know we will all see each other again.

During all of these happenings, God is doing something special with Jack's heart.  Over the last few days God has been telling Jack, that he needs to treat his Mum like a princess.  For the last week he has been telling me how pretty I am, every 5 minute, just in case I forget.  (By the way, I'm sure I look adorable when I rise out of bed with pillow wrinkles, messy hair and morning breath-LOL)  Then last night he began bringing me presents first my necklace wrapped up in paper and half a ton of sticky tape, then my eyebrow brush wrapped in the same fashion.  Finally a paper crown that he had made with the help of his Dad.   I saw Jesus in his eyes when he gave them to me.  It was more than my little boy appreciating his mummy (and that would be good enough for me).  God spoke to my heart and showed me that this is what he was seeing as we went about our busy day to day appointments and routines.  This is what he saw when I wake up in the morning, when I am sick, when I am hurting, when I am happy.  His view of us does not change.  We are his bride, no matter what we look like here on earth, we are covered by his blood, washed whiter than snow and we radiate because we are filled with his light. He sees past the blemishes and personality hang ups and sees us for who we truly are-men and women after his own heart.  It does my soul good to know that God loves me like this.  I hope you know it too.  We must love each other lavishly, just as Jack did, so that the world will see God in us.

Finally. please join us in prayer for Sam's cardiology review on Thursday at 9am. Pray that God will glorify His name.

W.O.W. Wow

Yesterday was such a strange day.  In the morning we were disappointed to learn that the contract to sell our home had fallen through.  Don and I spent the morning searching God because he had told us both separately that this was the time.  We rallied our friends to pray.  Something just didn't feel right.  We did not have God's peace.  We praised God anyway in the midst of our uneasiness. 

I started to question if I had heard God right, if he really wanted us to go to MAF at all.  I asked him to send a buyer for our home that day, and to not put me to shame when I had faith in His promises. I cried and asked his forgiveness for doubting him but I needed a to know that I wasn't crazy!

An hour before Don left to go to work, we received a phone call from the real estate with another offer from different buyers on our home.  We negotiated over last night and we agreed on a price today.  The contract will be signed over the next few days. WOW.

I really don't know what to say.  God saved me from shame, he was faithful to his promises as he always is.  Why don't I learn, after all we have been through with Him?  I feel just like Israel in the Old testament as they meandered from obedience to unfaithfulness.  I cried more then, and asked God's forgiveness for my human frailty, lack of wisom and lack of faith.  And as I told him how much I loved him he said 'Just as this promise has been fulfilled so will Sam's heart be whole.  So will he testify of my goodness to all men.  So will he be a display of my mercy and power upon the earth.  Just keep your eyes upon me and do not be anxious for anything'  Amen Lord, amen.

So what does this mean for us.  It means a great many things.  It means the time of rest here in Pittsworth is coming to close.  It means that the time of waiting is over and the time of preparation for missionary service has begun.  So now we prepare, pack and move to Melbourne, for Don to begin study.  I don't know what this will all look like yet, but it will likely happen over the next month.

I beg you for prayer. We have experienced fierce opposition in recent weeks from the enemy.  I would ask that you cover us with God's protection and the blood of Jesus.  I would ask that you pray for the  house contract to be finalised without any hitches and hiccups.  I would ask that you pray for peace of mind for us all as we navigate this new path, especially for the boys.  And finally I ask that you praise God with me for the mighty blessings he has bestowed upon us. 

Let the fun and games begin...

Will You Pray?

As many of you know, God has called Don and our family, to serve with Mission Aviation Fellowship.  To read more about that calling click here.  We have had our home for sale since late last year and have been waiting, praying and living in expectation. 
In recent weeks we have signed a contract on our home subject to the sale of the buyers home. It included a clause that after 21 days, other people can offer to buy our home.  That 21 days ends next Monday, and we have another buyer interested in our home.  So next week should be very interesting.
To make things a little more exciting we also found out that Don maybe able to start his flying training mid July, so that would mean moving to Melbourne as soon as the house is sold. 
It is quick.  But if this is what God wants we are happy,we are ready in our heart and heads, we just need to get moving on the ground!  However we will know nothing for certain until late next week.
So with all of this going on I asking for your prayer.  It is all out of our hands, which I love, because I know it is all in God's hands. There is simply no better place to be.

And here is where we  continually just hold it all up to God and say 'Take it all.'  Every day as we get up and then lay down to sleep we pray the same thing.  Will you please join with us?
I guess I would ask that you would pray for us to have peace and courage.  That all will go well according to God's plans and purposes for us and that each part of the plan will fall into place in his timing.  I am also asking him for confirmation about the move mid year.  I have received scriptural confirmation but he knows me, I always look for more than one :)

And to make this all the more action packed, this week I have a Sam's Heart book signing on Saturday and then the Cherish Life Conference the following week at which I get to speak and share our story. 

This is not a blog where I will pretend that I have it all together.  I don't, and never will this side of glory.  But I will be real and share our struggles and fears.  I will ask for prayer because the bible tells us to love and encourage one another.  Thank you for listening and praying alongside us.  May God bless you inside and out. xx

Trust Me

"Trust me I have it all in my hands."

 I have heard these words echoed over and over this week in relation to the sale of our home.  The lady who is interested in our home has put forward an offer, which we have accepted, though she must sell her home first. I am not one to sign a contract subject to sale.  However God has been saying the above words to me all week.  And so we have let it go and layed it all once again at his feet.  We are in the midst of signing a 2 month contract subject to the sale of the buyers house. In most people's eyes this would seem like foolishness.  However God has been speaking to me through the following scripture:

"...O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, thank you for hiding these things from those who think themsleves wise and clever, and for revealing them to the childlike.  Yes, Father it pleased you to do it this way!

My Father has entrusted everyting to me.  No one truly knows the Son except the Father, and no one truly knows the Father except the Son, and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him." (Matthew 11:25-27)

It pleases God when we trust in him and his son.  What may seem like wisdom to the world is not always wise in God's eyes.  His timing is perfect.  There is a difference in being childish and childlike.  To be childlike is to trust, without all of the questions and logical reasoning. It is not being naive but relying on the one who holds the bigger picture in his hands. 
This is not easy to do.  I have to lay down all of my ideas, budgets, objections and list of pros and cons.  I have to be willing to resign to the fact that I am not in control.  I have to honest with you, I like to have control. 

And so I ask you to pray for us.  For Don and I to have the patience to wait and be joyful in our waiting.  For God to sell our home according to his plan, so that we may move to Melbourne and study for Mission Aviation Fellowship.  And above all for us to have peace, his perfect peace, so that we may rest in the knowledge that we are walking hand in hand with God.

Focus

Yesterday was a day of searching.  As I sat down to try and work out some figures and budget the could be's, should be's and maybe's for our upcoming move and study, doubt began to encroach.  Will the funds made from our home be enough to cover the course costs, are we able to access Centrelink benefits to help us out, with the cost of the courses rising would Don still be able to complete both his engineering and flight components?  So many questions.  As I began to delve into a world of numbers and unanswered questions things began to look a little more grim.  As the course costs have risen quite considerably, I broke the news to Don that we may not be able to do both streams, but I was tormented in my spirit because we know in our hearts he is meant to do both. 

Wait a minute where do torment, insecurity, doubt and unbelief come from?  Yeah you know where!  Not from God hey!

So as Don wrapped his arms about me and prayed, we gave it all back to God and prayed that his grace would be enough and that he look after it all, it is too hard for us.  How do you plan for a course of action when you don't know how long you're going to be there, how much money you're going to need, where you're going to live and whether your house will sell in time to make it all work anyhow?  Do you really want  Don to do both courses Lord, we are unsure?

As we let it all go and rested back in the arms of Jesus, I quickly checked email before heading out the door and saw that we had received an email from the engineer manager at ACMA, the place where Don is to study.  In this email he went on to tell us that although MAF does encourage it's members only to do one or the other, both would be a great asset on the field and is something that may be used more in the future.  He encouraged us by telling Don how much they would love to have his skill at work down there while he studies and gave a brief course of direction for completing the course because of Don's previous experience.

You have to understand that this email was a gift from God.

God answered our concerns as we voiced then to him, even before we voiced them.  We know now without a doubt that Don must do both the engineering and flight components and we just have to trust that he will provided the funds needed for us to do it. 

I'm so glad that he holds the big picture in his hands, I would make such a mess of things if I painted the picture just by looking at the piece I hold in my hands.  It is so easy to get distracted by all of the things laying before us if I focus on them too much.  I know that things like working out the finances have to be done, but they must not overcome me.  When it all becomes too much I have to remember to back off and send it heavenwards. 

So don't worry about these things, saying, 'What will we eat?  What will we drink?  What will we wear?'  These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs.  Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything that you need. 

"So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring it's own worries.  Today's trouble is enough for today.

(Matthew 6 : 31-34)

One Dearly Loved Home For Sale

As of yesterday, our home is for sale.  It's great how we have such a sense of peace about this and how every time a doubtful thought comes, it is quickly dismissed.  I find the times when doubts come is when we focus on the situation at hand and take our eyes off of God.

You can check it out on here.

One step at a time is the key I think.  It can be all too overwhelming if we look too far forward. Our first step is to sell our home.  While doing this we are in contact with the Bible College of Victoria and MAF to apply for the courses that Don needs to do.  If we are able, it would be good to start college at the beginning of next year (Early Feb).  However it is all in God's timing, as we need to sell our home to fund Don's training.  We know God has planned this timing and so now we just need to keep a listening ear open to him and take our cares and requests to him.

I wonder if you would pray with us for finding the right buyer for our home, the person God has picked out.  I wonder if you could pray that they will offer a fair price.  I wonder if you will pray with us that the application to the College will go smoothly and according to God's timetable.  Pray for our children and for us, as we deal with alot of change.

We are currently going through all of our belongings and selling and giving away many things we don't know need.  It is both an exhilarating and difficult process.  It is quite amazing they way God is using the things no longer need.  People who have real need are being bought to our attention and we know they are meant to have certain things.  It is really quite fun.  Because we will be moving interstate, we are trying to take only the important things with us.

We already have an inspection tomorrow morning, so who knows it could all happen much faster than we think. 

The Calling

A boy with a dream...

A teen with a hope...

A man with a promise...

For as long as I have known my husband Don, he has had a dream of flying. It is not one of those come and go dreams but a steadfast promise buried deep within his heart, put there by God and nurtured throughout his life to date. As a young boy Don grew up around aircraft while his Dad mustered cattle in the Northern Territory. Memories like these never fade.

As a teenager he learned to fly before he could drive a car and was awarded a scholarship to achieve it. He worked hard and became an aircraft engineer to learn all that he could about the machines that had become his passion.

As life changed and the responsibilities that come with family became important, Don's dream to fly was smoldered. Finances were tight and many challenges have kept him grounded, while his heart yearned to soar. Don't misunderstand me, my husband is the kindest and most loving man I know and he would never put himself before God or his family. That is why I love him so.

Over the 10 years we have been married God had done mighty works in our hearts and lives. For so long we resisted his voice but three years ago we gave up the striving and gave everything we had to God. The affects of this radical obedience has been life changing. After the tumultuous last few years, God has bought us to a place of rest, a home called God's Rest, and here we have found the most amazing township, a loving church family, and Don has a very supportive team of workmates and a job he loves-maintaining Blackhawk helicopters. We are the most settled we have been in a very long time.

At this time God started to talk to me about homeschooling my 4 year old son Jack next year when he starts school. "Are you sure Lord?", "You've got to be kidding right?". We do after all live only 200m from the Primary School. Fortunately we have learned by now to just say yes, even if we can make no sense of it at the time. Homeschooling it is. Yes Lord.

While helping friends move house, Don and I both started getting itchy feet. Surely not, we say. We looked at each other and he says "What are you thinking?", and we both say MAF! At church on Sunday God spoke to us through the sermon about the dream that is buried deep within your heart, placed there by God and we knew he is confirming his call. MAF-is Mission Aviation Fellowship, supporting rural and isolated communities both in Australia and overseas. They train aircraft engineers and pilots to put them into service for God where needed. Ah, now I know why I need to homeschool.

For so many years Don has avoided MAF because his passion to fly was driven by his own wants and desires. And now here is God saying, it is the dream that I have placed in your heart, it will never go away because I want you to serve me! We want to burst with excitement! We know it is from God because we love where we live but now we have to give it all up and as Jesus says.."Come follow me..."

I wonder if you will join with us in our joy, nervousness, excitement, mayhem and thankfulness. I wonder if you will pray with us and encourage us on this new walk we are about to begin.

In the next few weeks we will be putting our home on the market and preparing for a new life. Here is the promise God has given us:

"And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or property for my sake, will receive a hundred times as much in return and will inherit eternal life." (Matthew 19:29)