I am finally back into our beloved mountains and with our people after an extended stay in the capital for writing purposes (writing two volumes of Bible studies for our native pastors to use in the local dialect).  I found out that I had grown used to having people around all the time, and got pretty lonely.  But it was wonderfully spiritually rejuvenating to have more time for study and prayer - and yes, writing.  The lessons are written!!  Praise the Lord.  They are now being edited just ahead of the pastor's need for that particular lesson.

Other good news.  The conversations with our supervisor were productive. He was already keenly aware of the trauma the insurance issue over the use of the helicopter in our work would create, but policy is policy.  Praise the Lord for loopholes.  He has worked out a situation for us where it can still be used extensively here and yet not create liability for the mission organization.  Praise the Lord.

Unfortunately, the helicopter is down for several months for repairs - some parts having been sent to Australia, others to the states.  It is amazing how quickly you come to be dependent on such luxuries!! 

Our dry season has been anything but!!  It is hotter and more humid, but still lots of rain!!  And it is raining again this Sabbath morning.  It will make for muddier and slipperier trails getting to church and afternoon visitation.  Such is life.

I've been rereading Isaiah 58 and am impressed again with how easy it is to find a comfort zone.  Sure, it is rather difficult getting into our project.  Yes, I left the US and family and all that involves to come here to this remote and malarious area, but I find that I still need the Lord to enlarge my heart and get me out of my acquired "comfort zone" to continue going beyond my boundaries and sacrificing myself in new ways every day.  "Lord, forgive me for my selfishness, for wanting the comforts of 'home' even here.  Help me to each day to be willing to sacrifice my comfort for the sake of Your people.  Amen"

Happy Sabbath to you all!