Normal
Am I the only one who wonders what normal really is? I’m not
sure if I (Scott) ever have a normal day because every day brings its own
challenges in a unique way. Nevertheless, the past few days have been a lot
closer to normal than some.
Eclipse watching with the Edgrens
Home Ministry Assignment
We were in the US for July and August to connect with family
and supporters. If we’ve learned anything about home ministry assignment it’s
that our lives there are very abnormal. Busy? Yes, but busy with some very enjoyable
activities. We got to see a lot of people that we love spending time with. The
time was too short, and many of you can attest to the fact that we didn’t see
everybody. Next time we’ll get to include others.
Helping Mom
You might remember that my mom struggles with serious mental
illness. In the last four years she has done much better, but the last few
months have been another low period for her. It was stressful to face her challenges
this summer, but in some ways less stressful than being too distant to be able
to help. We are thankful for good teamwork as a family and the help of
professionals which enabled us to make some changes in her life structure.
Please pray with us that her medication and the intervention of professionals
can help bring her back to her normal state.
Studies for Juan
A friend of mine named Juan is a Quichua pastor in Quito. He
would like to further his education, and I’m helping him explore possibilities
for doing some online theological study. The option he is most attracted to
would be a big stretch for him academically and financially, but it is an
excellent program of study. Pray that Juan finds clear direction. Pray that if
he isn’t accepted even that would be a learning opportunity.
Discipleship for Miguel
Another brother in Christ whom I’ll call Miguel is from
Venezuela. You probably know that life has been far from normal there in recent
years. Miguel previously came to Ecuador for a few months to look for better
opportunities. He is planning to return to Ecuador in a few weeks. Last time he
was here we developed a close relationship for discipleship. Pray that if it’s
God’s will he would be able to make his trip to Ecuador and that we would be
able to share more time together in productive spiritual growth.
Hope Begins
One of the highlights of this summer was the privilege of carrying
copies of my book, Hope Begins, to many of the places we visited. I was
encouraged to see significant interest. Each chapter demonstrates in a unique
way that Jesus Christ is God’s perfect solution for this world. Chapter 4
discusses his role as our perfect priest, which goes way beyond the duties of a
normal priest.
If you’d like to purchase the book there are options online.
The best value for paperback can be found at
The cheapest electronic format is the one for Kindle at
School
School is now in full swing. Kristi enjoys being back in the
classroom. She is especially pleased at how quiet and respectful her students
are this year. Luke is in his senior year and heavily involved in student
leadership. Lindsey started junior high this year and is experiencing a new
normal for her daily structure. I will be involved as president of the parents’
committee for the Senior class.