Dear
Friends and Family,
We
hope that you had a wonderful time celebrating the birth of our
Savior, Jesus Christ. Last month was very busy for us. During our
last few days in Nicaragua, we held a baptism service. Jeremy
baptized a boy who had been in his Sunday School class for over two
years as well as a man whom he taught in a 1 on 1 discipleship
course. Our final service in Nicaragua was held in the new church
building. Pastor Berner and the church held a special going away
service for our family. They made us feel very special and missed.
After that, we finished up our packing, sold many things, and stored
the rest at the homes of a few friends. We took an all night flight
and arrived back in the states on December 7th. Upon arrival, we had
to buy a used van and set up our cell phones to get ready for
furlough travels. Thankfully, we were able to spend a few weeks at
our home church, as well as participate in some of the Christmas
festivities. Jeremy was given the opportunity to preach in Reformers
Unanimous ministry of our home church. He also took a little time to
help out with church visitation. There were two men who placed their
faith in Christ to be saved. Jeremy also went to work putting
together a new video with lots of pictures to show on furlough. Near
the end of the month, we gave a brief furlough report to one of our
supporting churches in TN.
It
was very special to spend Christmas time with our families. That is
something special which we should not take for granted! Everyone
loved seeing how the girls had grown as well as get to know the
newest member of the Blanz family, baby Elijah! It took Lila and
Ellowyn a little time to get used to life in the United States.
Sometimes, on our way to a place, Lila would ask whether we would
speak in Spanish or English. At first, it seemed strange to her that
everyone spoke English! The girls were also surprised to feel how
cold it was up in Tennessee and to see puddles and ponds that had
frozen over. They even got to see a little bit of snow! They really
enjoyed getting to spend a little time reconnecting with our
families.
We
are so thankful for all who pray for us. This next month, will you
please pray:
1.
That God continues to strengthen the San Marcos church in our
absence.
2.
That God will use us to be a blessing and encouragement to the
churches we visit.
3.
That God will enable us to raise a little additional support during
our time on furlough.
In
Christ,
Jeremy,
Michelle, Lila, Ellowyn, and Elijah Blanz
