Prayer & Fasting...

 “Let the morning bring me word of Your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in You. Show me the way I should go, for to You I entrust my life.” Psalm 143:8 

This morning brought the discouraging word that our flights on August 18th are cancelled again; this was our 5th attempt at flights to return to our roles serving in PNG. Thankfully, we received word before going for our 5th COVID-19 test! As we look for new flights, we ask that you would pray and fast with us. Pray, not just for us, but for the other families also endeavoring to return to their essential roles in PNG as well. Pray for the families still in Ukarumpa who were anxiously waiting for all of us to return, to help lighten the workload there and encourage those who have been faithfully laboring under the additional burden of being severely short-staffed. We met with the families here via Zoom meeting today, and our prayers were as much for our colleagues and friends in Ukarumpa as they were for our own travels. Trusting in the LORD was the thread woven throughout all of our prayers and conversations, and it continues to be the truth that strengthens and encourages us to persevere when we are feeling discouraged. We know His loving plan, in His timing, is still the best option and we will continue to seek Him and His will be done in it all.

1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 

We are challenged to thank God for all circumstances, which has not been easy, but we have certainly seen His provision and kindness in our delay. We were blessed to visit good friends in Maine, which would not have happened if we’d left on our timetable. What blessings can you find in this time of waiting and uncertainty? We pray, rejoice, and give thanks because we know and trust the One who is sovereign over all the circumstances.

Prayer Points...

• Papua New Guinea (PNG): Pray for an end to the increase in COVID-19 cases in the capital city and against its spread throughout the country.

• Bible translation: Praise for the 40th anniversary of the PNG Bible Translation Association this month.

• Our roles in PNG: Pray for those in PNG stepping up to continue to cover our roles at the school and in security, and for a positive start to the new school year this week.

 • PNG missionaries: Pray for the morale of everyone in Ukarumpa who are stretched thin and awaiting our return.

 • God’s provision: Pray for God’s plan & timing in our flights, transfers and quarantine and for our perseverance.

Delayed Again...

Dear Friends,

Our flights to Papua New Guinea were canceled by the airline again. We contacted our travel agent and asked him to rebook us for the earliest possible flight which, at the moment, is scheduled for August 18th.. We are frustrated and disappointed, yet undaunted in our desire to return to the field. Please pray for our return and the return of 5 other mission families to Papua New Guinea. On a positive note, we have official permission from the PNG government to enter the  country and to quarantine in our home in Ukarumpa. We are also thankful for friends who are helping to prepare our house for quarantine; please pray we readjust well when we do return.

Thank you for your prayers,

Scott & Kathy