It is hard to believe - it is 2006 already. And it is the last month of our ministry here in Louisiana. Right now we are balancing staying focused, working hard to the end and planning the exit strategy. As we continue ministering to the evacuees here, thoughts of jobs and housing are lurking in the back of our minds.

The peace comes when we rest upon God’s provision. Anouk and I know full well that God has a job and house waiting for us. Last night as the New Year was ringing in, Anouk and I briefly reflected on what God had done for us in 2005. Let me share some of what He did for us in 2005:

1. In January, we went to Israel - a lifelong dream of ours. It was an amazing experience to walk where our Savior walked. Our favorite place? For both of us without a doubt - the Garden Tomb. To be in the place where our Christ was ressurected was something not to be forgotten.

2. In Feburary I was able to take a Masters level class at Maranatha. I have a goal of getting a Master’s degree someday (it is a slow process for me!), so it was good to be able to get a couple more credits toward that goal. Anouk suprised me by flying out and being with me for Valentine’s Day.

3. In July we had our annual Vacation Bible School at Cornerstone. It was well attended and the carnival was another success. I remember setting up for the carnival at it looking like rain. The teens and I prayed that God would hold off the rain, and He did!

4. At the end of July into the beginning of August, we went on a missions’ trip to Romania. We went to work with Mr. and Mr. Bob Capehart - great missionaries through BWM. We brought a lot of supplies over to him - including 17 foot trampoline. I was doubtful that the airline would allow the trampoline to go through, but God ordained it, so it was - without extra baggage fees.

5. September brought change. Anouk and I felt that God would have us leave Rhode Island and go back to Rockford. This was a very difficult and somewhat confusing time for us. Simply put, we liked it in Rhode Island. The church was good, there were no compelling reasons that forced us to move (doctrinal, sin issues, etc.). We just knew that God wanted us to move - so we stepped out on faith, not knowing what God had in store for us. Then the Katrina hit. With the start of Global Grace, God provided a ministry for Anouk and me.

6. October was the month of transition. We made it down here after a series of breakdowns that God ordained for His glory (still not sure what all of it was for, but we are trusting that it was for His glory!). As we transitioned into the ministy here in Lafayette, we were able to go into the Cajun Dome and serve the evacuees living there.

7. November brought Thanksgiving Day. God was gracious and allowed us to host a dinner for evacuees and evacuee workers at the Day’s Inn here in Lafayette. In all, about 60-70 people were served.

8. Most recently, the Christmas Eve Service was a display of God’s provision. Anouk and I decided to host a service that would give gifts to all of the kids that came. God provided more than enough gifts to give to the kids as well as enough gifts for the adults that came. God always does provide.

So, as we look back on how God provided for us this past year, we cannot help but be hopeful and excited about how God will provide for us in 2006. Rejoice with us - God is so good!