Micah is fully recovered! I went to the doctor yesterday and found out I have started the dilation process!! I know that doesn't tell us much about when Lydia will arrive, but it was oh so exciting news for Micah and I. (We are easily excited :)

Phil (our team leader from South East Asia) came in to town last night and spent the night with us. It was a joy to be together in such a restful way. We were able to go the Hein's for desert so Phil could visit with his old friends from Philly. We returned to the Alpaca farm to stay up late chatting. Micah woke us all up at 6:15am when he had to go to work. Something about visiting with those we love gives us an unnatural wave of energy. This morning was a continuation of our relaxing visit.

On a personal note: I have really been struggling through this particular section in Reece's Chronological Bible. For the past few weeks I have been reading through a combination of 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles, Isaiah, and Hosea. And it has me confused and depressed. Israel is under some major judgment of our Holly God. Ephraim especially. For a while now I have seen no hope for redemption. Finally I confessed my frustration of not seeing a clear picture of what is going on during this time period. I began to pray for the Lord to reveal Himself to me through this part of scripture. This morning for the first time in weeks I saw more clearly what I was reading!! I saw a Just God that takes no pleasure in those who work in their own strength and in their own understanding. I saw how the children of Israel do not live up to the standard of a Holy God! I saw them very much as I am. No different. Unable to please a Holy God. Desperately in need of a Savior! The issue is do we see our need?? I am Israel. I have been lead out of captivity and to the promised land given me through Christ. And yet like Israel I get caught doing things my way. Making idols that I can understand. I feel fine with out God and feel capable of going along on my own. Until He leads me to the valley of trouble. And then I see my need and He gives me acres of HOPE!! Praise God for those unwanted trials and troubles. He is working all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purposes!