We knew this single mother of three who was struggling to make ends meet. One night before Christmas, she was walking with her little boy looking at some houses that were decorated with Christmas lights for the Holiday. Wonder filled the little boy’s eyes as he contemplated the sight, then he turned to his mother and said, “I know why Santa never comes to our house on Christmas, we don’t put any lights up so he can find us”. How often we are like that little boy, especially at Christmas. We want God to see our good works (as little lights) and bless us (the naughty and nice syndrome) instead of being lights to dispense His goodness to others. Daniel 12:3 reminds us, “Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.” Let us pray that this Christmas we would be a light that shows God’s goodness and glory to mankind.
Wow! Another year is coming to an end. What a year! It seems to me like two years in one. The first half being in Brazil with what seemed like a million things to do before leaving for the US. Then the other half here spending much time on the road, but really enjoy visiting with so many experienced (not to say “old”) friends and enjoying the Bible Camps, Conferences, Conventions, and Rallies along with all the churches and pastors we have visited. Now we will slow down from the road a bit to spend some time with family over the Christmas Holidays. We will have Mom and Dad, April, Thomas and Jed (our nephew) with us in Wisconsin at the Mission home for some 14 days. The little house will be jam packed with people and activity, but it will be fun. After that Mom and Dad will head south, all the way to Brazil, the kids will return to AFLBS and we will hit the road again. We are really looking forward to all the great things God is going to do in 2012 if Jesus doesn’t come back first.
Things on the home front (Brazil) are going well. Though there are always many challenges, our church seems to be encouraged and moving forward. The Seminary and Miriam Infant home are finishing a good year. We praise the Lord for His goodness!
Jonathan, Tamba, April, Tom & Michelle Abel
To access the PDF form of this greeting, go here.
