It's been a little while since we've updated you on what's going on with Wycliffe. So here's a perfect opportunity to tell you what is happening at this exact moment in the life of our work in Bible Translation.
Every three years, InterVarsity puts on a massive missions conference for students between Christmas and New Years. When I say massive, I mean 17,000 students gathering in the Edward Jones Dome and the America's Center in St. Louis to worship together, learn about how critical global issues affect missions, and have opportunities to engage with the largest gathering of missions agency reps in North America.
That's where Wycliffe comes in. Right now there are several of our colleagues attending Urbana as representatives of Wycliffe in the worldwide Bible Translation movement. There's a giant booth with tons of info, displays, and ministry opportunities...we've got our first ever iPhone app (it's free!) to help in the recruiting process. I know this is a conference for students, but there was a whole lot of anticipation from all of my friends who (I shouldn't reveal this) are well beyond their student days.
Here's the link for Wycliffe@URBANA's Facebook page if you want to see some current pictures or have more info.
Thanks for reading!
Trevor
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Ohio Week Re-cap
Whew!
So we made it back home all in one piece...I know many of you had been praying and wondering (THANK YOU, by the way). Considering how the first part of our travel day was going yesterday I was afraid we might be throwing up on the plane and then getting thrown OFF the plane mid-flight in light of our little family of four ALL being infected with some awful stomach flu we had picked up over the weekend. We tried to see if we could postpone our flight, but no, the nice lady on the phone said we would simply forfeit our flight if we chose not to ride on it. So, we washed our hands of the responsibility of bringing our germs onto the plane. What can we say? ...we tried. Don't worry, we smiled big and laughed a lot, never giving anyone reason to think we had just been throwing up all through the night.
My two "sadnesses"--if I may call them that--from the whole week are that:
1) I didn't take a single picture on my camera, and
2) We were so close to so many dear friends that we didn't get to see because of time constraints/sickness/schedule.
We did, however, have a great time helping out with our church's Christmas program AND celebrating my dad's birthday. Trevor did a crash course on Tuesday and Wednesday to learn his keyboard part for 20 pieces of music (no, I'm not exaggerating), and I did my best to memorize words and notes to the 15 songs that I would be singing in. I will admit, I MAY have faked knowing the lines/parts to SOME of the songs;) My parents helped us out INCREDIBLY by being willing to watch the girls as we did this. I was blessed to meet and get to know a wonderful new friend through the whole process. THANK YOU to those who made it possible for us to do this (you know who you are). We were blessed beyond measure. Truly.
Looking forward to the week ahead. Brother and his wife will be flying in from South Korea, soon to be followed by my parents. Trevor is back in the office, starting tomorrow, getting back into the swing of things.
While I didn't get any pictures, I DID get one single video, which I will post for your enjoyment...probably tomorrow.Til then...
Sarah
So we made it back home all in one piece...I know many of you had been praying and wondering (THANK YOU, by the way). Considering how the first part of our travel day was going yesterday I was afraid we might be throwing up on the plane and then getting thrown OFF the plane mid-flight in light of our little family of four ALL being infected with some awful stomach flu we had picked up over the weekend. We tried to see if we could postpone our flight, but no, the nice lady on the phone said we would simply forfeit our flight if we chose not to ride on it. So, we washed our hands of the responsibility of bringing our germs onto the plane. What can we say? ...we tried. Don't worry, we smiled big and laughed a lot, never giving anyone reason to think we had just been throwing up all through the night.
My two "sadnesses"--if I may call them that--from the whole week are that:
1) I didn't take a single picture on my camera, and
2) We were so close to so many dear friends that we didn't get to see because of time constraints/sickness/schedule.
We did, however, have a great time helping out with our church's Christmas program AND celebrating my dad's birthday. Trevor did a crash course on Tuesday and Wednesday to learn his keyboard part for 20 pieces of music (no, I'm not exaggerating), and I did my best to memorize words and notes to the 15 songs that I would be singing in. I will admit, I MAY have faked knowing the lines/parts to SOME of the songs;) My parents helped us out INCREDIBLY by being willing to watch the girls as we did this. I was blessed to meet and get to know a wonderful new friend through the whole process. THANK YOU to those who made it possible for us to do this (you know who you are). We were blessed beyond measure. Truly.
Looking forward to the week ahead. Brother and his wife will be flying in from South Korea, soon to be followed by my parents. Trevor is back in the office, starting tomorrow, getting back into the swing of things.
While I didn't get any pictures, I DID get one single video, which I will post for your enjoyment...probably tomorrow.Til then...
Sarah
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Just another manic Monday
Monday morning
3:50AM My alarm VIBRATEs (note to self...turn on sound).
4:00 Trevor's alarm sounds (note to self...wake up when alarm sounds).
4:30 Mark Borland (a.k.a. Airport run friend) knocks on our door causing us to wake up.
4:31 Run around the house in a frazzled state trying to throw babies, baggage, selves in car while suffering intensifying tooth ache.
4:45 Make small talk about how my phone didn't wake me up.
4:46 Realize that phone is not on my person or in my car. Go back home.
4:50 Trevor finds phone under the sheets in the middle of the bed.
4:51 On the road again...Tooth pain intensifies.
5:10 Arrive at airport, check bags (note to self for future reference...fill out label thingys and attach to baggage).
6:00 Rush to our gate to catch our 6:30 flight to DETROIT.
6:01 Notice: Flight delayed until 9:00 (Problem: we will miss our connecting flight)
6:10 Call airline to re-book flights.
6:20 Relocate to gate across the walk-way to wait for our new 9:30 flight to ATLANTA.
6:21 Figure out a way to keep an almost one-year old and 2 year old happy after having woken them up at 4:40AM.
7:21 Still trying to figure out a way to keep kids happy (or at least content). Neither has slept.
9:00 Call to board plane.
9:10 Start meandering up to board plane.
9:11 Acacia "fake" coughs repeatedly (note to Acacia...don't fake cough when about to enter plane during flu season)
9:12 People in line take note of our family and pray that they don't get seated next to us.
9:30 Take-off.
9:40 Trevor plays in-flight trivia game while Acacia watches a show about dogs (thank you Delta for TV's in the seat backs)
10:00 Eliana sleeps for 20 min.
11:30 Land
11:31 Walk hurriedly across airport to make our next flight.
11:41 Arrive at proper gate.
11:42 Notice: flight delayed until further notice. 1 year old growing antsy.
12:00PM Notice: flight will leave at 1:20. 1 year old won't sit. Walk around airport.
12:20 Notice: flight will leave at 1:27. 1 year old grumpy. Walk around airport.
1:10 Board small plane.
1:11 FOUR seats all to ourselves (thank you, Lord)
1:20 Eliana doesn't want to sit.
1:40 Eliana doesn't want to sit.
1:55 Acacia sleeps.
1:56 Eliana is mad.
1:57 Pull out Dora DVD. Eliana is quiet.
2:00 Eliana sleeps.
2:01 All passengers on plane breathe a sigh of relief.
3:10 Land in Akron, OH.
3:20 Run to meet Grandpa and Vovo.
3:21 Walk to baggage claim to pick up luggage.
3:25 Baggage carousel stops, seemingly signifying it has thrown up all the bags it has.
3:26 Hope we have misunderstood and wait for it to start moving again.
3:27 Still waiting.
3:28 Talk to baggage claim guy.
3:29 No bags. Baggage claim guy can't find them in the system.
3:30 Remember that luggage is not marked with our names. Bad feeling in pit of stomach.
4:00 Drive to Grandpa and Vovo's with babies (without coats) sitting in airport-loaned carseats. No luggage. Note to self: don't pack coats in luggage.
4:30 Arrive at Grandpa and Vovo's to eat supper in time to get to church at 5:00 for meeting with Tampa.
6:30 Choir rehearsal.
10:00 End of rehearsal. Go to Grandpa and Vovo's.
10:45 Call airports and airlines to track luggage. No one can find it.
Tuesday Morning
10:00AM Trevor drives to airport to hunt down luggage.
10:35 Trevor calls to say he can see luggage through window. Door to room is locked. No one is to be found.
As I finish this post at 11:15am Trevor walks down the stairs with our luggage. Thank you, Lord.
This week we are in Ohio to take part in Hudson Chapel's Christmas concerts. Trevor is filling in for one of the keyboard spots and I get to sing in the choir. We also get the HUGE blessing of spending time with Grandpa and Vovo and hopefully seeing many of you (if you live in the area, of course)!
Til next time,
Sarah
3:50AM My alarm VIBRATEs (note to self...turn on sound).
4:00 Trevor's alarm sounds (note to self...wake up when alarm sounds).
4:30 Mark Borland (a.k.a. Airport run friend) knocks on our door causing us to wake up.
4:31 Run around the house in a frazzled state trying to throw babies, baggage, selves in car while suffering intensifying tooth ache.
4:45 Make small talk about how my phone didn't wake me up.
4:46 Realize that phone is not on my person or in my car. Go back home.
4:50 Trevor finds phone under the sheets in the middle of the bed.
4:51 On the road again...Tooth pain intensifies.
5:10 Arrive at airport, check bags (note to self for future reference...fill out label thingys and attach to baggage).
6:00 Rush to our gate to catch our 6:30 flight to DETROIT.
6:01 Notice: Flight delayed until 9:00 (Problem: we will miss our connecting flight)
6:10 Call airline to re-book flights.
6:20 Relocate to gate across the walk-way to wait for our new 9:30 flight to ATLANTA.
6:21 Figure out a way to keep an almost one-year old and 2 year old happy after having woken them up at 4:40AM.
7:21 Still trying to figure out a way to keep kids happy (or at least content). Neither has slept.
9:00 Call to board plane.
9:10 Start meandering up to board plane.
9:11 Acacia "fake" coughs repeatedly (note to Acacia...don't fake cough when about to enter plane during flu season)
9:12 People in line take note of our family and pray that they don't get seated next to us.
9:30 Take-off.
9:40 Trevor plays in-flight trivia game while Acacia watches a show about dogs (thank you Delta for TV's in the seat backs)
10:00 Eliana sleeps for 20 min.
11:30 Land
11:31 Walk hurriedly across airport to make our next flight.
11:41 Arrive at proper gate.
11:42 Notice: flight delayed until further notice. 1 year old growing antsy.
12:00PM Notice: flight will leave at 1:20. 1 year old won't sit. Walk around airport.
12:20 Notice: flight will leave at 1:27. 1 year old grumpy. Walk around airport.
1:10 Board small plane.
1:11 FOUR seats all to ourselves (thank you, Lord)
1:20 Eliana doesn't want to sit.
1:40 Eliana doesn't want to sit.
1:55 Acacia sleeps.
1:56 Eliana is mad.
1:57 Pull out Dora DVD. Eliana is quiet.
2:00 Eliana sleeps.
2:01 All passengers on plane breathe a sigh of relief.
3:10 Land in Akron, OH.
3:20 Run to meet Grandpa and Vovo.
3:21 Walk to baggage claim to pick up luggage.
3:25 Baggage carousel stops, seemingly signifying it has thrown up all the bags it has.
3:26 Hope we have misunderstood and wait for it to start moving again.
3:27 Still waiting.
3:28 Talk to baggage claim guy.
3:29 No bags. Baggage claim guy can't find them in the system.
3:30 Remember that luggage is not marked with our names. Bad feeling in pit of stomach.
4:00 Drive to Grandpa and Vovo's with babies (without coats) sitting in airport-loaned carseats. No luggage. Note to self: don't pack coats in luggage.
4:30 Arrive at Grandpa and Vovo's to eat supper in time to get to church at 5:00 for meeting with Tampa.
6:30 Choir rehearsal.
10:00 End of rehearsal. Go to Grandpa and Vovo's.
10:45 Call airports and airlines to track luggage. No one can find it.
Tuesday Morning
10:00AM Trevor drives to airport to hunt down luggage.
10:35 Trevor calls to say he can see luggage through window. Door to room is locked. No one is to be found.
As I finish this post at 11:15am Trevor walks down the stairs with our luggage. Thank you, Lord.
This week we are in Ohio to take part in Hudson Chapel's Christmas concerts. Trevor is filling in for one of the keyboard spots and I get to sing in the choir. We also get the HUGE blessing of spending time with Grandpa and Vovo and hopefully seeing many of you (if you live in the area, of course)!
Til next time,
Sarah
Monday, November 30, 2009
O, Christmas Tree!
Thanksgiving looked a little different for us than normal this year for two reasons:
1. No snow.
2. No family.
We did, however, still have a blessed and wonderful Thanksgiving weekend. While we sincerely missed our family, the Lord provided "family" right here in Orlando for us to spend time with. On Thursday we spent the day with two friend and partners from college. We had a sweet time and, if I may say so myself, a sweet turkey. Erin and I nailed it, and the guys did an excellent job carving. :)
The rest of the weekend was filled with fellowship and catching up on rest. And, like many of you, putting up our tree! Thought we'd give you a glimpse into our house this week and show you how we got our tree up. Eliana happens to be taking a nap during the tree extravaganza, hence why you won't see her in the pictures.
Christmas stockings make great work gloves.
First Acacia called these "poconuts"...Then they were cranberries....Then we finally broke it to her that they were "holly berries".
She had fun decorating our wreath.
And we have a Christmas tree, folks.
Acacia wanted her Dalmation pups to help watch over Baby Jesus.
Happy Thanksgiving to each one of you!
With love,
The Schuh family
1. No snow.
2. No family.
We did, however, still have a blessed and wonderful Thanksgiving weekend. While we sincerely missed our family, the Lord provided "family" right here in Orlando for us to spend time with. On Thursday we spent the day with two friend and partners from college. We had a sweet time and, if I may say so myself, a sweet turkey. Erin and I nailed it, and the guys did an excellent job carving. :)
The rest of the weekend was filled with fellowship and catching up on rest. And, like many of you, putting up our tree! Thought we'd give you a glimpse into our house this week and show you how we got our tree up. Eliana happens to be taking a nap during the tree extravaganza, hence why you won't see her in the pictures.
Christmas stockings make great work gloves.
Oh, the anticipation.
Christmas Princess Leia's??
First Acacia called these "poconuts"...Then they were cranberries....Then we finally broke it to her that they were "holly berries".
She had fun decorating our wreath.
We were so pleased with our new look that we had to take another picture.
Trevor deserves a gold star cause he worked the hardest.
Trevor deserves a gold star cause he worked the hardest.
And we have a Christmas tree, folks.
Acacia wanted her Dalmation pups to help watch over Baby Jesus.
With love,
The Schuh family
Monday, November 23, 2009
The Gospel according to Acácia
Yesterday (Sunday) afternoon I plopped down my Bible and bags right inside the front door as we walked in from our morning at church. Trevor wasn't feeling well and I was just plain tired so all we wanted to do was get the girls down for a nap so we, too, could take our predictable Sunday afternoon snooze.
As I'm getting Acácia all set to crawl into bed, Trevor prods her, "Acácia, tell Mommy what you learned in Sunday School this morning." Her face lit up and I could tell she had something really cool to tell me as evidenced by her stammering to spit out all of the words at once. Pulling all her thoughts into one cohesive sentence, she said excitedly, "Jesus died on the cwoss (translation: cross)! And He was really, really ouchy." She demonstrated this by pointing to her own hands, signifying she knew where He was ouchy. I wanted to weep right then and there.
There's nothing quite like hearing a toddler who is just learning to form proper sentences speak about the cross. Nothing so sweet as hearing a tiny little voice articulate the most powerful moment in history.
I know there's still a long way to go before she fully understands what exactly "Jesus died on the cross" means, but then again, you know what? So do I.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
The Missions Conference High
I couldn't think of what to blog about today...but when I looked at the title of our blog, I thought "hmmmm...that's interesting." For quite some time, it's been quite appropriate as a title for our family. The Traveling Schuhs. That's what we do. We travel. We'll live with you if you let us...all we need is a basement and a pack'n'play and we're content.
But now we're pretty settled. Life is beginning to be "normal" again.
Work with me here.
When I was growing up, Missions Conference was a big deal. I looked forward to it every year. I still remember just about every missionary that we had visiting our church (which is pretty amazing if you know my lack of basic childhood memories...my sisters remember more of my childhood than I do). I had this high after every conference or short-term missions trip. I loved that feeling. The feeling that I could somehow be a part of what God was doing somewhere across the globe.
My job is like a constant Missions Conference high. I don't mean that it's always fun, always easy, or always some sort of spiritual experience. But I get to see glimpses of what God is doing across the globe every day. Literally. Every day.
Today, for example. Let me think of the tiny "touches" that I had with people in one very average day.
Today I was in touch with a leader from our work in Bangladesh, a friend from last year's training camp now living in Hawaii, the President of Wycliffe USA, the Director of Missions at a large church in Southern California, and countless other friends and connections with hundreds of years of combined missions "field" experience.
Pretty cool.
So I guess the "traveling" part of our blog name is now morphing from our family's travels to the travels of all of these "touches" we have here at this hub of missions work. If you ever come to Orlando to visit us, you could end up with a Missions Conference high, too! We truly mean it when we say, "if you're ever in Orlando, you have a place to stay"!
Hope to see you soon! We'll try to post more pictures next time...pray that our Mac miraculously recovers soon!
Thanks for reading...
Trevor
But now we're pretty settled. Life is beginning to be "normal" again.
Work with me here.
When I was growing up, Missions Conference was a big deal. I looked forward to it every year. I still remember just about every missionary that we had visiting our church (which is pretty amazing if you know my lack of basic childhood memories...my sisters remember more of my childhood than I do). I had this high after every conference or short-term missions trip. I loved that feeling. The feeling that I could somehow be a part of what God was doing somewhere across the globe.
My job is like a constant Missions Conference high. I don't mean that it's always fun, always easy, or always some sort of spiritual experience. But I get to see glimpses of what God is doing across the globe every day. Literally. Every day.
Today, for example. Let me think of the tiny "touches" that I had with people in one very average day.
Today I was in touch with a leader from our work in Bangladesh, a friend from last year's training camp now living in Hawaii, the President of Wycliffe USA, the Director of Missions at a large church in Southern California, and countless other friends and connections with hundreds of years of combined missions "field" experience.
Pretty cool.
So I guess the "traveling" part of our blog name is now morphing from our family's travels to the travels of all of these "touches" we have here at this hub of missions work. If you ever come to Orlando to visit us, you could end up with a Missions Conference high, too! We truly mean it when we say, "if you're ever in Orlando, you have a place to stay"!
Hope to see you soon! We'll try to post more pictures next time...pray that our Mac miraculously recovers soon!
Thanks for reading...
Trevor
Thursday, November 12, 2009
I Really AM Working!
I know I shouldn't be blogging during work...but I have to. It'll be short.
I was having a case of self-diagnosed "restless back syndrome" a little while ago, so I took my notebook out to the hallways to just review my projects and make sure I wasn't forgetting anything on my to-do list. As I was roaming and reading, I decided that I should just start praying about my projects. So I did.
This led to me walking by a few tables in the lobby designated for prayer during our Moody Radio Campaign. Right now it's going on in Cleveland, Chicago, Michigan...I think that's it. Hundreds of thousands of dollars have come in for Wycliffe's projects in Panama and Peru as a result of phone calls to our call center right outside my office. I'm making a short story long here, but you have to know the background for it to make sense.
So I found these two binders on the tables that had a bunch of sheets from our phone operators (many of my colleagues that are volunteering to man the phones during the campaign), and I opened one up to peruse the contents. As I started seeing how many people had asked for us to call them back to pray with them about specific requests, I had the oddest reaction.
My eyes started glistening.
Okay, I was crying. But just a little.
Here we have this campaign that is bringing glory to God through raising awareness and funding for OUR projects around the world. Great things, you know? But every person calling in to give was given the opportunity for US to bless them by praying for them. Some of them have unsaved family members...a lot of sickness and disease...kids that have wandered away from the faith...you know, hurting people.
I am sometimes just overwhelmed with the idea that we are all in this together. We're this family. I have brothers and sisters that I've never met. In a few short seconds, though, we can be completely bonded with someone with a give and take relationship that is based on Christ.
Maybe this doesn't resonate with you, but I couldn't resist writing it down right after I experienced it.
Don't worry, I'll get back to work now.
Trevor
I was having a case of self-diagnosed "restless back syndrome" a little while ago, so I took my notebook out to the hallways to just review my projects and make sure I wasn't forgetting anything on my to-do list. As I was roaming and reading, I decided that I should just start praying about my projects. So I did.
This led to me walking by a few tables in the lobby designated for prayer during our Moody Radio Campaign. Right now it's going on in Cleveland, Chicago, Michigan...I think that's it. Hundreds of thousands of dollars have come in for Wycliffe's projects in Panama and Peru as a result of phone calls to our call center right outside my office. I'm making a short story long here, but you have to know the background for it to make sense.
So I found these two binders on the tables that had a bunch of sheets from our phone operators (many of my colleagues that are volunteering to man the phones during the campaign), and I opened one up to peruse the contents. As I started seeing how many people had asked for us to call them back to pray with them about specific requests, I had the oddest reaction.
My eyes started glistening.
Okay, I was crying. But just a little.
Here we have this campaign that is bringing glory to God through raising awareness and funding for OUR projects around the world. Great things, you know? But every person calling in to give was given the opportunity for US to bless them by praying for them. Some of them have unsaved family members...a lot of sickness and disease...kids that have wandered away from the faith...you know, hurting people.
I am sometimes just overwhelmed with the idea that we are all in this together. We're this family. I have brothers and sisters that I've never met. In a few short seconds, though, we can be completely bonded with someone with a give and take relationship that is based on Christ.
Maybe this doesn't resonate with you, but I couldn't resist writing it down right after I experienced it.
Don't worry, I'll get back to work now.
Trevor
Monday, November 9, 2009
Running Schuhs for the Rutara
So we're training for a marathon. The title of this post is shameless, I know.
Before you start thinking that I'm speaking metaphorically about life being a marathon, Trevor and I are physically running and training to run a marathon.
Why?...you might ask.
It just so happens that I can translate the Bible while running a marathon. You had no idea, did you?
According to The Seed Company (a Wycliffe subsidiary), it takes (on average) $26 to translate one verse of the Bible. According to runners, it takes (on average) 26 miles to run a marathon. How handy.
Team OneVerse (an initiative of The Seed Company) aims to join a passion for running with a passion for translating the Bible. Trevor and I signed up to join Team OneVerse earlier this year so that we could have a hand in directly bringing God's Word to a specific people group. It's one way we felt we could "be overseas" while the Lord has placed us stateside.
As we prepare and train for this marathon (at Disney World on January 10th), we raise money that will go directly to the translation project in progress for the Rutara people of South Asia. You could liken it to people running for other charity organizations like Team in Training, Run for the Cure, Walk for Life, etc. People (maybe even you!) sponsor us as we run the marathon.
You'll be hearing more about this in weeks to come, but for now, you can check out Team OneVerse's website by clicking here.
Now for a few (okay, it's a lot...but they're fun) pictures! I wanted to post these last week, but better late than never! These were taken during last week when Trevor's parents came to spend the week with our girls while we were at a leadership training week at Wycliffe.
Okay, I just love this picture. So I added it!
Grandma's photo session: CHEESE!
I'm so embarrassed.
Before you start thinking that I'm speaking metaphorically about life being a marathon, Trevor and I are physically running and training to run a marathon.
Why?...you might ask.
It just so happens that I can translate the Bible while running a marathon. You had no idea, did you?
According to The Seed Company (a Wycliffe subsidiary), it takes (on average) $26 to translate one verse of the Bible. According to runners, it takes (on average) 26 miles to run a marathon. How handy.
Team OneVerse (an initiative of The Seed Company) aims to join a passion for running with a passion for translating the Bible. Trevor and I signed up to join Team OneVerse earlier this year so that we could have a hand in directly bringing God's Word to a specific people group. It's one way we felt we could "be overseas" while the Lord has placed us stateside.
As we prepare and train for this marathon (at Disney World on January 10th), we raise money that will go directly to the translation project in progress for the Rutara people of South Asia. You could liken it to people running for other charity organizations like Team in Training, Run for the Cure, Walk for Life, etc. People (maybe even you!) sponsor us as we run the marathon.
You'll be hearing more about this in weeks to come, but for now, you can check out Team OneVerse's website by clicking here.
Now for a few (okay, it's a lot...but they're fun) pictures! I wanted to post these last week, but better late than never! These were taken during last week when Trevor's parents came to spend the week with our girls while we were at a leadership training week at Wycliffe.
Grandma, Buppa, and the girls had a blast playing with the birds.
Off to the pool at the resort...take note of Acacia's attire.
Okay, I just love this picture. So I added it!
Grandma's photo session: CHEESE!
I'm so embarrassed.
Getting into position....
...Got 'er good! Point for ME!
Need I say more?
Thank you, Grandma and Buppa!
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
109
In housekeeping news, as of today we now have internet. Thank you, cable man!
In more important news, the new numbers are out for this past year in terms of new Bible translation project starts. You ready?
109 new translation projects were started this past year!!!! This is VERY exciting. To put it in terms that you may be familiar with...on average, a new project was started once every three days. By the grace and mighty power of our God, this is the quickest pace to date. Praise Him!
In current events for the Schuh family, Trevor and I had a great week last week at Leadership Rising. It was a full week devoted to learning about godly leadership, the inner workings of the organization, and how to develop strengths (and weaknesses) God has given for His glory. The girls had a great week spending time with Grandma and Buppa. Thanks for the opportunity to do this!
Next week, Trevor has the opportunity to lead worship for the World Day of Prayer. Remember how we used to wonder how God would bring our experiences with music into our roles here in Orlando...well here you have it. While this is kind of an "extra" thing he gets to do, He is thankful for the opportunity. And thanks to some friends who are willing and gracious enough to help with the girls for the day, I get to join him!
Thanks for keeping up!
Sarah
In more important news, the new numbers are out for this past year in terms of new Bible translation project starts. You ready?
109 new translation projects were started this past year!!!! This is VERY exciting. To put it in terms that you may be familiar with...on average, a new project was started once every three days. By the grace and mighty power of our God, this is the quickest pace to date. Praise Him!
In current events for the Schuh family, Trevor and I had a great week last week at Leadership Rising. It was a full week devoted to learning about godly leadership, the inner workings of the organization, and how to develop strengths (and weaknesses) God has given for His glory. The girls had a great week spending time with Grandma and Buppa. Thanks for the opportunity to do this!
Next week, Trevor has the opportunity to lead worship for the World Day of Prayer. Remember how we used to wonder how God would bring our experiences with music into our roles here in Orlando...well here you have it. While this is kind of an "extra" thing he gets to do, He is thankful for the opportunity. And thanks to some friends who are willing and gracious enough to help with the girls for the day, I get to join him!
Thanks for keeping up!
Sarah
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
5:28 am
I’m chuckling to myself as I sit down to write this post considering the events of the morning (if you can call it that) thus far. Last night I sat down to write the blog post for this week and after staring at the screen for longer than I should, decided I was too tired and simply not in the frame of mind to do it. It seems like I’ve talked about going to bed at 9:00pm for years, and last night my lofty goal and dream actually came true (!!!). It was spectacular. Six consecutive hours of sleep happened upon me as Eliana didn’t wake up to eat until 3AM. I felt like a new woman.
Considering I didn’t know what I would do between 3 and 6, I fed the littlest Schuh and went back to bed, sleeping again until the alarm woke me up again. This time, I practically jumped out of bed I was feeling so rested. I took my shower, figured out what to wear and made my way to the kitchen for some breakfast. I looked at the clock and did a double-take….it was 5:28AM. Trevor apparently didn’t realize what time he had set the alarm for (or maybe it was all part of his evil plan!). Wups.
It’s a very different week in the Schuh household this week. Trevor and I BOTH have the opportunity to take part in something called Leadership Rising (at Wycliffe) which goes from Monday until Friday…all day, every day. It’s a leadership development workshop where we work on recognizing and developing the particular strengths God has given us and then see how they can best be utilized in the task of Bible translation. We each come up with a leadership development plan that will guide us in the months and years to come. Seems to be a great tool that will help us as we continue to watch where God wants to use us. I’m looking forward to all God has in store through Leadership Rising.
Trevor’s parents flew in for the week and have been gracious enough to watch the girls (as if we needed to beg! :) ), giving me the opportunity to take part in this. I will say, it’s a nice little change of routine to sit down and have adult conversations while eating lunch, not to mention being able to hold my husband’s hand without having little people hanging off of us! I have to admit though, I already miss them.
Since we know that it’s WAY more important to see recent pictures of the girls—as opposed to pictures of US—we thought you might appreciate a couple of these.
Looking sweet as ever. She's our little runaway (crawlaway, really)...keeping me (and Grandma and Buppa this week) on my toes!
FYI We have been without internet here at the house for the past week and a half. Actually, it’s more that our computer that gets the wireless signal is shot for the moment. We’re waiting for something coming in the mail that should take care of the problem. In case you’re wondering how I’m posting this blog…I wrote it at home on our other computer and then posted it when we got to Wycliffe. We’re working to get the problem fixed soon.
As always, thanks for your love and prayers!
Serving with you, Sarah
Considering I didn’t know what I would do between 3 and 6, I fed the littlest Schuh and went back to bed, sleeping again until the alarm woke me up again. This time, I practically jumped out of bed I was feeling so rested. I took my shower, figured out what to wear and made my way to the kitchen for some breakfast. I looked at the clock and did a double-take….it was 5:28AM. Trevor apparently didn’t realize what time he had set the alarm for (or maybe it was all part of his evil plan!). Wups.
It’s a very different week in the Schuh household this week. Trevor and I BOTH have the opportunity to take part in something called Leadership Rising (at Wycliffe) which goes from Monday until Friday…all day, every day. It’s a leadership development workshop where we work on recognizing and developing the particular strengths God has given us and then see how they can best be utilized in the task of Bible translation. We each come up with a leadership development plan that will guide us in the months and years to come. Seems to be a great tool that will help us as we continue to watch where God wants to use us. I’m looking forward to all God has in store through Leadership Rising.
Trevor’s parents flew in for the week and have been gracious enough to watch the girls (as if we needed to beg! :) ), giving me the opportunity to take part in this. I will say, it’s a nice little change of routine to sit down and have adult conversations while eating lunch, not to mention being able to hold my husband’s hand without having little people hanging off of us! I have to admit though, I already miss them.
Since we know that it’s WAY more important to see recent pictures of the girls—as opposed to pictures of US—we thought you might appreciate a couple of these.
WAAAY excited to be in her Nemo fis towel from Great Grandma. Notice Nemo peeking out of her towel.
Looking sweet as ever. She's our little runaway (crawlaway, really)...keeping me (and Grandma and Buppa this week) on my toes!
FYI We have been without internet here at the house for the past week and a half. Actually, it’s more that our computer that gets the wireless signal is shot for the moment. We’re waiting for something coming in the mail that should take care of the problem. In case you’re wondering how I’m posting this blog…I wrote it at home on our other computer and then posted it when we got to Wycliffe. We’re working to get the problem fixed soon.
As always, thanks for your love and prayers!
Serving with you, Sarah
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Why I love my job
Well, it's Tuesday...blog day! Can you feel the excitement in the air?
Here's a little glimpse into some of the things that I have been involved in so far since starting work in the Offices of the President. Since I’m still “the new guy”, the list is limited to a LOT of learning by observation, but I’ve already told you that I love my job, so here are a few reasons why:
1. I manage special projects for the President (Bob) and two of the Senior Vice Presidents (Russ and Ruth), which means that my job looks very different every day. One day I may be coordinating a large church event for Wycliffe, and the next day I may be scheduling and welcoming a new director’s through their orientation with Wycliffe USA. My mind is always busy, and when I get done with one task, there’s something completely different to attack, which I love.
2. A few weeks ago, I was able to jump into a situation where I led worship for a Scripture Celebration, which is an incredible time that we spend as a Wycliffe family and community celebrating newly dedicated Scriptures from around the world. The original worship leader had a death in the family, so I was able to step in and lend a hand to vocally lead the times of worship that morning. If you are ever in Orlando for one of these, or you’re looking for a good time to visit us, you should DEFINITELY come to a Scripture Celebration. I’m always emotional when I see that a new language community finally has access to God’s Word in their heart language…I know you will be, too. (I just found out that YOU can watch this here!)
3. Not only am I able to work with/for some incredible leaders, but I get to learn from their experience and abilities. Some of the things that I do involve trying to figure out their voices in writing and communication styles in order to represent our leadership well to those within as well as outside of the organization, which is developing skills in myself that I’m sure will carry on into the future.
4. And finally, I love the fact that I come into the office every day knowing that we’ll pray. Everything we do each day is somehow linked to getting God’s Word into the heart language of everyone who still needs it, though sometimes it may be difficult to see the connection. Really, that is what we are doing…every one of us in this office.
Sarah, at home with the girls, has been telling me lately that even though she is unsure of what her role may become in our office or not, she feels confident that what she is doing is supporting Bible translation. I appreciate that greatly. Sarah wants to provide an environment that frees me up to do what I need to do WELL. With excellence. With confidence and passion.
I have the best family.
In other news, my parents are coming down this weekend to spend a week with the girls while Sarah and I are at a leadership conference. I’m excited to show them what God has provided for us, as well as for the time that we’ll be able to spend with family. It’s always a blessing! Plus, the girls will get to be spoiled by their Grandma and Buppa, and who doesn’t love that!
Thanks for reading!
Trevor
Here's a little glimpse into some of the things that I have been involved in so far since starting work in the Offices of the President. Since I’m still “the new guy”, the list is limited to a LOT of learning by observation, but I’ve already told you that I love my job, so here are a few reasons why:
1. I manage special projects for the President (Bob) and two of the Senior Vice Presidents (Russ and Ruth), which means that my job looks very different every day. One day I may be coordinating a large church event for Wycliffe, and the next day I may be scheduling and welcoming a new director’s through their orientation with Wycliffe USA. My mind is always busy, and when I get done with one task, there’s something completely different to attack, which I love.
2. A few weeks ago, I was able to jump into a situation where I led worship for a Scripture Celebration, which is an incredible time that we spend as a Wycliffe family and community celebrating newly dedicated Scriptures from around the world. The original worship leader had a death in the family, so I was able to step in and lend a hand to vocally lead the times of worship that morning. If you are ever in Orlando for one of these, or you’re looking for a good time to visit us, you should DEFINITELY come to a Scripture Celebration. I’m always emotional when I see that a new language community finally has access to God’s Word in their heart language…I know you will be, too. (I just found out that YOU can watch this here!)
3. Not only am I able to work with/for some incredible leaders, but I get to learn from their experience and abilities. Some of the things that I do involve trying to figure out their voices in writing and communication styles in order to represent our leadership well to those within as well as outside of the organization, which is developing skills in myself that I’m sure will carry on into the future.
4. And finally, I love the fact that I come into the office every day knowing that we’ll pray. Everything we do each day is somehow linked to getting God’s Word into the heart language of everyone who still needs it, though sometimes it may be difficult to see the connection. Really, that is what we are doing…every one of us in this office.
Sarah, at home with the girls, has been telling me lately that even though she is unsure of what her role may become in our office or not, she feels confident that what she is doing is supporting Bible translation. I appreciate that greatly. Sarah wants to provide an environment that frees me up to do what I need to do WELL. With excellence. With confidence and passion.
I have the best family.
In other news, my parents are coming down this weekend to spend a week with the girls while Sarah and I are at a leadership conference. I’m excited to show them what God has provided for us, as well as for the time that we’ll be able to spend with family. It’s always a blessing! Plus, the girls will get to be spoiled by their Grandma and Buppa, and who doesn’t love that!
Thanks for reading!
Trevor
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Radio and Cockroaches
So today I was driving in the car and I heard the familiar sound clip of Wycliffe’s Last Languages Campaign play on the radio. I happened to be stressed out about getting our car registered and other seemingly mountain-looking issues we were facing, so my general outlook and attitude was together a big ball of stress. I’m pretty sure my shoulders were hunched up…the tell-tale sign that I was indeed NOT walking with the remembrance of what really matters.
Anyways, back to my story about the radio….as I listened, a man with a VERY thick accent spoke about the life-giving power of having God’s Word in His mother-tongue. I wish I could type with an accent because something about what he said and the way he said it suddenly transported me (just my imagination…I’m not being literal here) to a far-off land (maybe Brazil?) where I visualized people reading God’s Word with incredible thirst, devouring every word….wondering at it, experiencing true awe and joy at discovering Truth.
I’ll be honest, while we have been immeasurably blessed over the last several weeks since being here at our assignment, I feel like my spiritual life almost went into a holding pattern. I’ve been distracted. I’ve been tired. I’ve been forgetful. And spiritually speaking, I’ve been lazy. Too many things to do. The house has to get set up. The car needs to get registered. The kids need to be fed. The clothes need to be ironed. The floors need to be cleaned. The boxes (still) need to be emptied. The walls (still) need to be painted. Stuff, stuff, stuff. Distraction upon distraction. I have managed to tell the Lord I just don’t have time.
So when I heard that man speak, I was just thirsty. Thirsty for God. Thirsty for His Word. Seems kind of ironic to me how quickly I can forget the value of His Word even when we talk about bringing this same Word to other people on a daily basis. So that was my wake-up call for the day. Well, maybe for this past month.
Pray that above all, before our spiritual needs are met, before we do well at the job, before the house is in order, etc. etc. etc….pray that we would walk closely with the Lord. That above all, we would enjoy Him.
On an entirely UNspiritual note, I had a fight with a cockroach a couple days ago…and WON! He was trying to get into my piano (bad idea, buddy) as I tried to hammer on the keys hoping the loudness of the sound would make him budge. Acácia was getting quite a kick of the whole display as I was in rare form screaming like a schoolgirl. Anyways, this guy was the size of my thumb. I thought I would show you the before and after pictures.
Anyways, back to my story about the radio….as I listened, a man with a VERY thick accent spoke about the life-giving power of having God’s Word in His mother-tongue. I wish I could type with an accent because something about what he said and the way he said it suddenly transported me (just my imagination…I’m not being literal here) to a far-off land (maybe Brazil?) where I visualized people reading God’s Word with incredible thirst, devouring every word….wondering at it, experiencing true awe and joy at discovering Truth.
I’ll be honest, while we have been immeasurably blessed over the last several weeks since being here at our assignment, I feel like my spiritual life almost went into a holding pattern. I’ve been distracted. I’ve been tired. I’ve been forgetful. And spiritually speaking, I’ve been lazy. Too many things to do. The house has to get set up. The car needs to get registered. The kids need to be fed. The clothes need to be ironed. The floors need to be cleaned. The boxes (still) need to be emptied. The walls (still) need to be painted. Stuff, stuff, stuff. Distraction upon distraction. I have managed to tell the Lord I just don’t have time.
So when I heard that man speak, I was just thirsty. Thirsty for God. Thirsty for His Word. Seems kind of ironic to me how quickly I can forget the value of His Word even when we talk about bringing this same Word to other people on a daily basis. So that was my wake-up call for the day. Well, maybe for this past month.
Pray that above all, before our spiritual needs are met, before we do well at the job, before the house is in order, etc. etc. etc….pray that we would walk closely with the Lord. That above all, we would enjoy Him.
On an entirely UNspiritual note, I had a fight with a cockroach a couple days ago…and WON! He was trying to get into my piano (bad idea, buddy) as I tried to hammer on the keys hoping the loudness of the sound would make him budge. Acácia was getting quite a kick of the whole display as I was in rare form screaming like a schoolgirl. Anyways, this guy was the size of my thumb. I thought I would show you the before and after pictures.
In his lair: the Dora Play-doh box
Got him on his back. I win.
Sarah
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Shout Out to EQUIP!
Today I'm sharing briefly with the new members of Wycliffe USA about this blog and the 40 day prayer project that all of YOU were a part of. If you think of it, be lifting this group of men, women, and lots of kids (or so I hear) as they begin their journey with Wycliffe. This is the equivalent of the Training Camp that started our crazy journey to the place we are now.
Trevor
Trevor
Monday, September 21, 2009
A Cool Day.
Today is a very cool day.
Today marks the first of many days that Trevor will have the opportunity to serve in the Offices of the President at Wycliffe Bible Translators. What an immense privilege it is to be able to serve in this capacity. I'm excited for him, proud of him, and praying that I'll be a good support to him.
Today marks the first of many days where I will be home for the majority of the day investing in two young lives for the purpose of the gospel. At least this is what I pray my motivation for parenting will be. The day in and day out tries to distract me from that, but what an immense privilege it is to open up someone's life to the God who lives. While being home with kids is a normal thing and something that most moms are well used to, it's a bit of a shift for this mom. I've had the opportunity to have my husband right next to me for the last year. I'll be serving with Wycliffe, too, but most of my responsibilities will most likely be done from home.
Today, one of our dear partners is flying on a plane to the Philippines to take part in the celebration/dedication ceremony of the newly translated Kinaray-a New Testament. How incredibly cool is it that today, of all days, she gets to go and see the product (well, the REAL product is transformed lives...but this is the tangible product) of what we work towards when taking part in Bible Translation. Definitely a GREAT reminder for us to start with the end in mind. God is so good.
Today starts the last round of Trevor's Grandma's chemo. Thank you, Lord, for the ways You've created our minds to work so that new cures and new medicine can be discovered in order to prolong life! We pray that God would work mightily in her body to remove every last bit of the cancer that tries to take over.
I'm guessing you have some things to thank God for today. Don't wait!
Sarah
Today marks the first of many days that Trevor will have the opportunity to serve in the Offices of the President at Wycliffe Bible Translators. What an immense privilege it is to be able to serve in this capacity. I'm excited for him, proud of him, and praying that I'll be a good support to him.
Today marks the first of many days where I will be home for the majority of the day investing in two young lives for the purpose of the gospel. At least this is what I pray my motivation for parenting will be. The day in and day out tries to distract me from that, but what an immense privilege it is to open up someone's life to the God who lives. While being home with kids is a normal thing and something that most moms are well used to, it's a bit of a shift for this mom. I've had the opportunity to have my husband right next to me for the last year. I'll be serving with Wycliffe, too, but most of my responsibilities will most likely be done from home.
Today, one of our dear partners is flying on a plane to the Philippines to take part in the celebration/dedication ceremony of the newly translated Kinaray-a New Testament. How incredibly cool is it that today, of all days, she gets to go and see the product (well, the REAL product is transformed lives...but this is the tangible product) of what we work towards when taking part in Bible Translation. Definitely a GREAT reminder for us to start with the end in mind. God is so good.
Today starts the last round of Trevor's Grandma's chemo. Thank you, Lord, for the ways You've created our minds to work so that new cures and new medicine can be discovered in order to prolong life! We pray that God would work mightily in her body to remove every last bit of the cancer that tries to take over.
I'm guessing you have some things to thank God for today. Don't wait!
Sarah
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Glory to God for How He Has Worked!
Hello again friends!
First of all, our deepest apologies for being a little out of touch for the past couple of weeks. To those of you who have emailed us or been checking the blog to see if our percentage has gone up, please forgive our lack of communication. The whirlwind of the last week and a half of moving had our heads spinning. Fear not, though, we are alive and well!
I am pleased to report that our heads have (mostly) stopped spinning and we are able to get a breath of fresh air (albeit a bit humid). The girls are healthy, sleeping good, and happy to be chasing lizards.
We are finally really getting settled in to our new home in St. Cloud, FL. The quirks of the house are becoming the “norm” now....the house is becoming home (I have to admit, I am quite the pro at unjamming and then re-jamming the sliding door now). I am NOT, however, used to the ants yet. Ants in my kitchen=very UN-cool.
Okay, most of you are probably wondering “so are you at 100% yet?!” You may have noticed that we took off the remaining amount left from the side of our blog.
God has spoken to the hearts of many of you over the last several weeks, and you have responded enthusiastically to join with us by becoming a financial partner.
Right now it appears that we are, in fact, fully funded to be cleared to begin our assignment! We praise God for how He has brought this whole team together!
The reason we don’t currently have a number posted is because we are in the process of getting everything solidified in terms of numbers. We have to get everything confirmed and cleared through our supervisor, who will then give us the green light to begin working. Tentatively, next Monday (Sept. 21st) will be Trevor’s first day serving at the headquarters.
You will definitely hear when we receive official clearing.
Praise God for how HE has worked. Praise God for HIS perfect timing. Praise God for how He uses each one of us to bring His Word to the nations. What an incredible privilege we have to be a part of this wonderful work. THANK YOU, from the depths of our hearts, to you. Your journeying with us has made all the difference. If not for you, this task would not happen. This is only the beginning!
Watch for our next newsletter (next week or so) where we’ll highlight specific ways how God has worked through the process of this move to Florida.
Thanks for keeping up!
Sarah
Below is a picture of our first family dinner in our new home. My parents were of invaluable help as they made the drive down to Florida with us. We have since had to say some very tearful goodbyes as they flew back home to Ohio. I love you, Mom and Dad!
First of all, our deepest apologies for being a little out of touch for the past couple of weeks. To those of you who have emailed us or been checking the blog to see if our percentage has gone up, please forgive our lack of communication. The whirlwind of the last week and a half of moving had our heads spinning. Fear not, though, we are alive and well!
I am pleased to report that our heads have (mostly) stopped spinning and we are able to get a breath of fresh air (albeit a bit humid). The girls are healthy, sleeping good, and happy to be chasing lizards.
We are finally really getting settled in to our new home in St. Cloud, FL. The quirks of the house are becoming the “norm” now....the house is becoming home (I have to admit, I am quite the pro at unjamming and then re-jamming the sliding door now). I am NOT, however, used to the ants yet. Ants in my kitchen=very UN-cool.
Okay, most of you are probably wondering “so are you at 100% yet?!” You may have noticed that we took off the remaining amount left from the side of our blog.
God has spoken to the hearts of many of you over the last several weeks, and you have responded enthusiastically to join with us by becoming a financial partner.
Right now it appears that we are, in fact, fully funded to be cleared to begin our assignment! We praise God for how He has brought this whole team together!
The reason we don’t currently have a number posted is because we are in the process of getting everything solidified in terms of numbers. We have to get everything confirmed and cleared through our supervisor, who will then give us the green light to begin working. Tentatively, next Monday (Sept. 21st) will be Trevor’s first day serving at the headquarters.
You will definitely hear when we receive official clearing.
Praise God for how HE has worked. Praise God for HIS perfect timing. Praise God for how He uses each one of us to bring His Word to the nations. What an incredible privilege we have to be a part of this wonderful work. THANK YOU, from the depths of our hearts, to you. Your journeying with us has made all the difference. If not for you, this task would not happen. This is only the beginning!
Watch for our next newsletter (next week or so) where we’ll highlight specific ways how God has worked through the process of this move to Florida.
Thanks for keeping up!
Sarah
Below is a picture of our first family dinner in our new home. My parents were of invaluable help as they made the drive down to Florida with us. We have since had to say some very tearful goodbyes as they flew back home to Ohio. I love you, Mom and Dad!
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Cleaning Day - Quick Post
I feel like I need to end this day with a quick blog about the day we had...pictures and videos will definitely make it at a later date!
Today we rented a house in St. Cloud, Florida. It's perfect for us, but it's quirky. I suppose those two are actually related to each other, huh? We had a bunch of help cleaning it out today and trying to get everything ready for our move in on Monday/Tuesday. See, we don't have electricity or running water yet. This makes for an interesting day in itself, but since we had energetic people helping us, it was great.
Ruth tackled the kitchen...and I'm pretty sure that she won the battle with it. We all kind of stayed out of her way because she was in the zone for the ENTIRE day of cleaning. Yes, it's that dirty...well, dirty isn't really the word for it...ummmm, how about "in need of some love"? The kitchen looks incredible, at least in the dark.
The trio of Erica, Nick, and Jennifer tackled several rooms together and had quite the system going with their cleaning. The laughing and singing coming from around the house made me think that they were having a good time with the company, at least. One of my favorite parts of the day was when Erica asked me "ummm...is it okay if we take Eliana OUT of the stroller to play with her?" Yes, Erica. Sounds much better than scrubbing tile, too!
Mark was the sacrificial lawn-mower in the ridiculous heat and humidity of this lovely state, and I think that he went through a weeks worth of wardrobe in one afternoon due to it...my dad probably would have had him beat, considering he sweats in the air conditioning, but Mark was a hero in the yard.
Deb did a little of everything...considering her hosting abilities and "go-with-the-flowbility", she can probably boast of doing the largest variety of work throughout the day. We have the best neighbors EVER.
Carl and Suely (Sarah's parents) are amazing. Between Mr. Fixit and Mrs. Grand-Ma, we couldn't have done it without them. It's going to be REALLY hard to let them leave next week.
Sarah and I are pretty tired, but at the end of the day, we are so incredibly blessed and thankful for the way that God has been working in the past few days. Give it a week or two, and we'll be up and running for Orlando visitors to crash at our pad! The humidity is killer, but the lizards are AWESOME.
More later,
Trevor
Today we rented a house in St. Cloud, Florida. It's perfect for us, but it's quirky. I suppose those two are actually related to each other, huh? We had a bunch of help cleaning it out today and trying to get everything ready for our move in on Monday/Tuesday. See, we don't have electricity or running water yet. This makes for an interesting day in itself, but since we had energetic people helping us, it was great.
Ruth tackled the kitchen...and I'm pretty sure that she won the battle with it. We all kind of stayed out of her way because she was in the zone for the ENTIRE day of cleaning. Yes, it's that dirty...well, dirty isn't really the word for it...ummmm, how about "in need of some love"? The kitchen looks incredible, at least in the dark.
The trio of Erica, Nick, and Jennifer tackled several rooms together and had quite the system going with their cleaning. The laughing and singing coming from around the house made me think that they were having a good time with the company, at least. One of my favorite parts of the day was when Erica asked me "ummm...is it okay if we take Eliana OUT of the stroller to play with her?" Yes, Erica. Sounds much better than scrubbing tile, too!
Mark was the sacrificial lawn-mower in the ridiculous heat and humidity of this lovely state, and I think that he went through a weeks worth of wardrobe in one afternoon due to it...my dad probably would have had him beat, considering he sweats in the air conditioning, but Mark was a hero in the yard.
Deb did a little of everything...considering her hosting abilities and "go-with-the-flowbility", she can probably boast of doing the largest variety of work throughout the day. We have the best neighbors EVER.
Carl and Suely (Sarah's parents) are amazing. Between Mr. Fixit and Mrs. Grand-Ma, we couldn't have done it without them. It's going to be REALLY hard to let them leave next week.
Sarah and I are pretty tired, but at the end of the day, we are so incredibly blessed and thankful for the way that God has been working in the past few days. Give it a week or two, and we'll be up and running for Orlando visitors to crash at our pad! The humidity is killer, but the lizards are AWESOME.
More later,
Trevor
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Last day in Ohio
So today is our last full day in the great state of Ohio. We're moving to Florida tomorrow, which is both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. Exhilarating because we are so close to starting our assignment in the Offices of the President, and nerve-wracking because we don't have a place to live yet (I know, small details).
We do have some absolutely wonderful people in gator country working overtime for us. You know who you are. We've had tons of places to call and tons of places to look at via videos emailed to us, but making decisions this big are really difficult from so far away. The great thing is that we have been surrounded with wise, Godly people that have good insight and input through this whole process.
We really don't know how long we'll live in this next place, or how many kids we'll have when we leave it. We don't know how God is going to use us in our new neighborhood, our new job, our new church, etc. We don't know a lot of things. But what we do know is that God is working in unbelievable ways, as He always has and always will.
We are still not fully able to begin our jobs in the Headquarters, either. Our numbers keep dropping very quickly, but as of today, we still need $132.80 per month in order for us to begin the work in Orlando. Until then, we're learning a lot about patience. If God is leading you to this team, as always, just let us know! We'd love to have you partner with us in accelerating the pace of worldwide Bible translation!
If you read this post, could you pray for our family through this transition?
A few things to be lifting up would include finding a place to live, settling into that place, the girls adjusting to a completely new situation (all three girls, that is), the provision of the last $132.80 per month, and a great transition to our new roles.
We love you all very much, and appreciate your encouragements and prayers. Thanks for all you do!
Trevor
p.s. You know that bracelet that I blogged about last month? The one from Henrique? I'm completely bummed because it broke last night, and this is the first time since November that it hasn't been around my wrist.
We do have some absolutely wonderful people in gator country working overtime for us. You know who you are. We've had tons of places to call and tons of places to look at via videos emailed to us, but making decisions this big are really difficult from so far away. The great thing is that we have been surrounded with wise, Godly people that have good insight and input through this whole process.
We really don't know how long we'll live in this next place, or how many kids we'll have when we leave it. We don't know how God is going to use us in our new neighborhood, our new job, our new church, etc. We don't know a lot of things. But what we do know is that God is working in unbelievable ways, as He always has and always will.
We are still not fully able to begin our jobs in the Headquarters, either. Our numbers keep dropping very quickly, but as of today, we still need $132.80 per month in order for us to begin the work in Orlando. Until then, we're learning a lot about patience. If God is leading you to this team, as always, just let us know! We'd love to have you partner with us in accelerating the pace of worldwide Bible translation!
If you read this post, could you pray for our family through this transition?
A few things to be lifting up would include finding a place to live, settling into that place, the girls adjusting to a completely new situation (all three girls, that is), the provision of the last $132.80 per month, and a great transition to our new roles.
We love you all very much, and appreciate your encouragements and prayers. Thanks for all you do!
Trevor
p.s. You know that bracelet that I blogged about last month? The one from Henrique? I'm completely bummed because it broke last night, and this is the first time since November that it hasn't been around my wrist.
Monday, August 24, 2009
It's Moving Day!
Right now I’m sitting in my living room looking around at the sheer amount of stuff that I have yet to get packed up. We’re on the move again.
We’re in the midst of Phase 1 of our “transitory move” (I totally just made that up...I’m not so sure that transitory is even a word). Tomorrow we will say goodbye to the little apartment that has become our haven of rest over the past 8-9 months and move in with my parents as we prepare to make the move to Florida (Phase 2). We have only $235 left to raise before we’re at 100%(!!!) so we are moving forward with the beginning stages of moving, trusting that the Lord will provide the remaining amount that we need.
As with each place we’ve lived, I’ll store up another set of memories that we’ll take with us from this home. While in this house we have: had our second child, Eliana Carina; celebrated our first daughter, Acacia’s, second birthday; celebrated my 25th birthday; celebrated Trevor and my 3rd anniversary (has it already been 3 years?!); and watched God work in ways we never would have dreamed of as He’s brought this team of believers together to join us in the task of Bible translation.
Are we cleared to start yet? No. God is still waiting for a few of you to respond to His call to join us in this ministry. We thank and PRAISE GOD for how He has moved in the hearts of so many of you to team up with us in serving to translate the Bible. We have been so encouraged by your response to pray and to give.
This is a step of faith. Could it be months before we start yet? Well, I suppose it could. Depends how quickly you respond if you’ve been thinking about joining with us but haven’t yet taken the plunge:) In all honesty, for any of you who have been considering and contemplating whether or not you want to get involved, we pray that God would direct you clearly to act on it...whether that means shooting us an email to let us know that you can’t right now, or that you’re praying about it, OR that you’ve made a decision and you want to sign up. Whatever it is, our hope is that communication would happen.
There’s your challenge for today.
Mine is sitting right in front of me. I’ve got stacks of toys, puzzles, clothes, etc. that need to get boxed up as a step of faith that God is going to finish up bringing the rest of the finances in. Is there a step of faith that God is asking you to take?
Sarah
The goofy girls in their glamorous get-ups.
I'm so big! Just waiting for these teeth to come in.
We’re in the midst of Phase 1 of our “transitory move” (I totally just made that up...I’m not so sure that transitory is even a word). Tomorrow we will say goodbye to the little apartment that has become our haven of rest over the past 8-9 months and move in with my parents as we prepare to make the move to Florida (Phase 2). We have only $235 left to raise before we’re at 100%(!!!) so we are moving forward with the beginning stages of moving, trusting that the Lord will provide the remaining amount that we need.
As with each place we’ve lived, I’ll store up another set of memories that we’ll take with us from this home. While in this house we have: had our second child, Eliana Carina; celebrated our first daughter, Acacia’s, second birthday; celebrated my 25th birthday; celebrated Trevor and my 3rd anniversary (has it already been 3 years?!); and watched God work in ways we never would have dreamed of as He’s brought this team of believers together to join us in the task of Bible translation.
Are we cleared to start yet? No. God is still waiting for a few of you to respond to His call to join us in this ministry. We thank and PRAISE GOD for how He has moved in the hearts of so many of you to team up with us in serving to translate the Bible. We have been so encouraged by your response to pray and to give.
This is a step of faith. Could it be months before we start yet? Well, I suppose it could. Depends how quickly you respond if you’ve been thinking about joining with us but haven’t yet taken the plunge:) In all honesty, for any of you who have been considering and contemplating whether or not you want to get involved, we pray that God would direct you clearly to act on it...whether that means shooting us an email to let us know that you can’t right now, or that you’re praying about it, OR that you’ve made a decision and you want to sign up. Whatever it is, our hope is that communication would happen.
There’s your challenge for today.
Mine is sitting right in front of me. I’ve got stacks of toys, puzzles, clothes, etc. that need to get boxed up as a step of faith that God is going to finish up bringing the rest of the finances in. Is there a step of faith that God is asking you to take?
Sarah
The goofy girls in their glamorous get-ups.
I'm so big! Just waiting for these teeth to come in.Monday, August 17, 2009
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Reality Check
We’ve had a lot of people lately asking us how we’re doing. Basically, “What is your emotional and spiritual state?”
I truly wish I could say that I have been totally at peace, resting in the Father 100% of the time (there’s that silly percent sign again...). That all is well, God is in control, and I’m standing steadfast in faith. Don’t get me wrong, that is in fact where I have been on many an occasion during this journey of faith so far.
But I’ll be honest.
There are days when it’s a struggle. There are days when I want to shout, “God, WHAT ARE YOU DOING???” There are days when I want to know what the future holds, that my attitude just plain stinks, and my faith is weaker than I want to admit.
Here’s a glimpse into what God spoke to my heart last night.
“Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth?
Tell Me, if you have understanding.
Who set its measurements?
Since you know.
Or who stretched the line on it?
On what were its bases sunk?
Or who laid its cornerstone, when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy?
Have you ever in your life commanded the morning, and caused the dawn to know its place...” (Job 38)
Let’s just say that I got a little reality check.
How easy it is to get into the mindset that I somehow know what’s best for me and my family. How selfish and prideful I am when I want to weep or scream about the fact that we aren’t where I think we should be right now. How ungrateful I am when I think that I somehow need more of this or that (stability, control, whatever it is that’s got me reeling) in order to make me satisfied.
God knows what He’s doing.
He’s got it under control.
We’ve cried out to the Lord, we’ve talked to people, we’ve tried to make this thing happen.
And so far, He’s said, “Not yet.”
Doesn’t mean things won’t come through tomorrow and we’ll be cleared to start. Doesn’t mean we sit idly by.
But it does mean that we can rest. It does mean that I can be at peace.
Sometimes I “get it”. Sometimes I so quickly forget God’s faithfulness.
So that’s where I’m at. If you’re wondering, that’s how you can pray for us. We are learning to rest in our Great God who commands the morning and causes the dawn to know its place.
May we all learn to trust Him more. Praise God for His patience and His lovingkindness.
Sarah
I truly wish I could say that I have been totally at peace, resting in the Father 100% of the time (there’s that silly percent sign again...). That all is well, God is in control, and I’m standing steadfast in faith. Don’t get me wrong, that is in fact where I have been on many an occasion during this journey of faith so far.
But I’ll be honest.
There are days when it’s a struggle. There are days when I want to shout, “God, WHAT ARE YOU DOING???” There are days when I want to know what the future holds, that my attitude just plain stinks, and my faith is weaker than I want to admit.
Here’s a glimpse into what God spoke to my heart last night.
“Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth?
Tell Me, if you have understanding.
Who set its measurements?
Since you know.
Or who stretched the line on it?
On what were its bases sunk?
Or who laid its cornerstone, when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy?
Have you ever in your life commanded the morning, and caused the dawn to know its place...” (Job 38)
Let’s just say that I got a little reality check.
How easy it is to get into the mindset that I somehow know what’s best for me and my family. How selfish and prideful I am when I want to weep or scream about the fact that we aren’t where I think we should be right now. How ungrateful I am when I think that I somehow need more of this or that (stability, control, whatever it is that’s got me reeling) in order to make me satisfied.
God knows what He’s doing.
He’s got it under control.
We’ve cried out to the Lord, we’ve talked to people, we’ve tried to make this thing happen.
And so far, He’s said, “Not yet.”
Doesn’t mean things won’t come through tomorrow and we’ll be cleared to start. Doesn’t mean we sit idly by.
But it does mean that we can rest. It does mean that I can be at peace.
Sometimes I “get it”. Sometimes I so quickly forget God’s faithfulness.
So that’s where I’m at. If you’re wondering, that’s how you can pray for us. We are learning to rest in our Great God who commands the morning and causes the dawn to know its place.
May we all learn to trust Him more. Praise God for His patience and His lovingkindness.
Sarah
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Blogging Withdrawals
Hey everyone~
Since I'm having withdrawals, I thought I'd post something today. I was going to make a video, but I'm not motivated enough for that this afternoon.
Okay, so if you look on the right side of the blog, you'll see that the number has changed. And it's changed in a good way. Check it out, we only need that much more financial partnership in order to begin our assignment in Orlando! That's it!
Want to join with us? What are you waiting for? Let us know!
I thought of something yesterday that was interesting (to me at least). It's Tuesday, so this will be my instinctive Frequently Asked Questions blog of yesteryear. Here are a few questions that I've heard all of the time and have come across pretty defensive about in the past.
So how long are you doing this whole Wycliffe thing? What is your commitment? Where does Orlando fit into this?
My answer to these questions would be "does it really matter?" I know...who likes to have a question answered with a question, especially something that sounds so apathetic?
But really, we are working with an organization that is all about Bible Translation. EVERYWHERE we end up in the whole organization is guaranteed to be supporting Bible Translation. If we are working in Orlando, we're supporting Bible Translation. If we're in Brazil, we're supporting Bible Translation. If we are working as dorm parents, we are supporting Bible Translation. If we are linguists/translators, we are supporting Bible Translation. We are in this for as long as God leads us to be in it. Just like our partners.
I cannot tell you exactly where God will lead us in the next 50 years. What I can tell you is that we are passionate about Bible Translation, and wherever we are serving within Wycliffe, we will be Bible Translators! That's all that you need to know, I guess. If God tells us to move to Nigeria tomorrow, that absolutely does not change anything about us or the team that we have surrounding our ministry (that's YOU in case you didn't know). If God tells us to work in Orlando for 50 years, that doesn't change ANYTHING!
Here's the picture:
Our ministry with Wycliffe is a boat. Imagine the Noah's ark flann-o-graph boat. Right now, our family is on the boat making everything ready for our trip. The boat is grounded, stuck, unable to leave the port. The water is rising up all around the boat, and the water represents our financial and prayer team. Our ministry's "support", if you will. Each new partner dumps a big tank of water into the sea to see the level rise.
Okay, when our finances are squared away, when that number on the right is down to $0, and our prayer team is set, we will be floating. From this point on, God is the wind in our sails (okay, Noah didn't have sails...but we do). Where the wind blows, we go. It's not a random wind, however, it's God's moving in our family and ministry.
So you are the water that keeps us afloat. I know it's not a perfect illustration, but I actually think it's pretty good. When we have a strong team, a fluid team of God's people praying for and giving toward our ministry, we are free to move where God leads. Essentially, we can float anywhere in the world when the water is deep enough.
We are literally waiting on the Lord right now. I can call every one of you on the phone or send you an email or facebook message and God can still say "wait." But if you think that you'd like to support our ministry, please let us know. We are on the boat, literally packing our belongings into boxes so that we'll be ready to leave Ohio.
I know it's hard to fathom, but we are ready to leave.
We can't.
Maybe you don't know this, but almost all of our belongings have been sitting in a storage unit in Orlando for over a year.
We've been ready for an entire year. That's a long time! It's been a good year, but we are ready to go.
Will you help get us to Orlando?
Since I'm having withdrawals, I thought I'd post something today. I was going to make a video, but I'm not motivated enough for that this afternoon.
Okay, so if you look on the right side of the blog, you'll see that the number has changed. And it's changed in a good way. Check it out, we only need that much more financial partnership in order to begin our assignment in Orlando! That's it!
Want to join with us? What are you waiting for? Let us know!
I thought of something yesterday that was interesting (to me at least). It's Tuesday, so this will be my instinctive Frequently Asked Questions blog of yesteryear. Here are a few questions that I've heard all of the time and have come across pretty defensive about in the past.
So how long are you doing this whole Wycliffe thing? What is your commitment? Where does Orlando fit into this?
My answer to these questions would be "does it really matter?" I know...who likes to have a question answered with a question, especially something that sounds so apathetic?
But really, we are working with an organization that is all about Bible Translation. EVERYWHERE we end up in the whole organization is guaranteed to be supporting Bible Translation. If we are working in Orlando, we're supporting Bible Translation. If we're in Brazil, we're supporting Bible Translation. If we are working as dorm parents, we are supporting Bible Translation. If we are linguists/translators, we are supporting Bible Translation. We are in this for as long as God leads us to be in it. Just like our partners.
I cannot tell you exactly where God will lead us in the next 50 years. What I can tell you is that we are passionate about Bible Translation, and wherever we are serving within Wycliffe, we will be Bible Translators! That's all that you need to know, I guess. If God tells us to move to Nigeria tomorrow, that absolutely does not change anything about us or the team that we have surrounding our ministry (that's YOU in case you didn't know). If God tells us to work in Orlando for 50 years, that doesn't change ANYTHING!
Here's the picture:
Our ministry with Wycliffe is a boat. Imagine the Noah's ark flann-o-graph boat. Right now, our family is on the boat making everything ready for our trip. The boat is grounded, stuck, unable to leave the port. The water is rising up all around the boat, and the water represents our financial and prayer team. Our ministry's "support", if you will. Each new partner dumps a big tank of water into the sea to see the level rise.
Okay, when our finances are squared away, when that number on the right is down to $0, and our prayer team is set, we will be floating. From this point on, God is the wind in our sails (okay, Noah didn't have sails...but we do). Where the wind blows, we go. It's not a random wind, however, it's God's moving in our family and ministry.
So you are the water that keeps us afloat. I know it's not a perfect illustration, but I actually think it's pretty good. When we have a strong team, a fluid team of God's people praying for and giving toward our ministry, we are free to move where God leads. Essentially, we can float anywhere in the world when the water is deep enough.
We are literally waiting on the Lord right now. I can call every one of you on the phone or send you an email or facebook message and God can still say "wait." But if you think that you'd like to support our ministry, please let us know. We are on the boat, literally packing our belongings into boxes so that we'll be ready to leave Ohio.
I know it's hard to fathom, but we are ready to leave.
We can't.
Maybe you don't know this, but almost all of our belongings have been sitting in a storage unit in Orlando for over a year.
We've been ready for an entire year. That's a long time! It's been a good year, but we are ready to go.
Will you help get us to Orlando?
Thursday, August 6, 2009
8.6.09
“All nations whom You have made shall come and worship before You, O Lord, and they shall glorify Your Name.” Psalm 86:9
August 6, 2009. 8.6.09. Well folks, it’s here. Our 40 days has come to an end.
Trevor and I, over the past couple of days have been reflecting on what has happened during Connect 8.6.09.
We’ve been asking God to breakthrough in our ministry. The big question is “So did He??”
Did He bring us new partners? Yep. Did He raise our percentage? Yep. Are we closer to beginning our assignment? Yep. We praise God for all these things.
Mostly, though, if we were completely honest, God has broken through to our hearts. He’s revolutionized the way we pray. He’s revolutionized the way we understand our purpose in life. He’s revolutionized the way we depend on Him. There are things that we could attempt to put to words, but our words would do no justice to the magnificent ways God has spoken to our hearts and changed the way we walk with Him. We praise God for His faithfulness and pray that the work that He has done in us would multiply, not for our sake, but for the sake of His kingdom.
So where do we go from here?
We press on. We are so close. We cannot and will not stop here. The end of these 40 days is in no way an “end” of ANYTHING. Rather, it has spurred us on to greater things. We will continue to invite people to partner with us because we KNOW that God is waiting to release the funds that we still lack. And He will choose to use us and He will choose to use you.
If you haven’t signed up, don’t worry....there’s no deadline. God is still at work. I could tell you stories to prove it. Maybe you are even one of them.
We will continue to keep up this blog to let you know what we’re up to. Will we blog every day? Probably not :) BUT, we will be faithful to keep you in the loop with this ministry that so many of you are a part of.
Thank you, thank you, thank you to those who have joined us in prayer, to those who have joined us financially, to those who have joined us in carrying burdens and giving encouragement. You have blessed us beyond words.
Praise God for His faithfulness and for how He has moved in these 40 days. Our hearts are filled with praise and thanksgiving. AND anticipation. :)
“All nations whom You have made shall come and worship before You, O Lord, and they shall glorify Your Name.” Psalm 86:9
Sarah
August 6, 2009. 8.6.09. Well folks, it’s here. Our 40 days has come to an end.
Trevor and I, over the past couple of days have been reflecting on what has happened during Connect 8.6.09.We’ve been asking God to breakthrough in our ministry. The big question is “So did He??”
Did He bring us new partners? Yep. Did He raise our percentage? Yep. Are we closer to beginning our assignment? Yep. We praise God for all these things.
Mostly, though, if we were completely honest, God has broken through to our hearts. He’s revolutionized the way we pray. He’s revolutionized the way we understand our purpose in life. He’s revolutionized the way we depend on Him. There are things that we could attempt to put to words, but our words would do no justice to the magnificent ways God has spoken to our hearts and changed the way we walk with Him. We praise God for His faithfulness and pray that the work that He has done in us would multiply, not for our sake, but for the sake of His kingdom.
So where do we go from here?
We press on. We are so close. We cannot and will not stop here. The end of these 40 days is in no way an “end” of ANYTHING. Rather, it has spurred us on to greater things. We will continue to invite people to partner with us because we KNOW that God is waiting to release the funds that we still lack. And He will choose to use us and He will choose to use you.
If you haven’t signed up, don’t worry....there’s no deadline. God is still at work. I could tell you stories to prove it. Maybe you are even one of them.
We will continue to keep up this blog to let you know what we’re up to. Will we blog every day? Probably not :) BUT, we will be faithful to keep you in the loop with this ministry that so many of you are a part of.
Thank you, thank you, thank you to those who have joined us in prayer, to those who have joined us financially, to those who have joined us in carrying burdens and giving encouragement. You have blessed us beyond words.
Praise God for His faithfulness and for how He has moved in these 40 days. Our hearts are filled with praise and thanksgiving. AND anticipation. :)
“All nations whom You have made shall come and worship before You, O Lord, and they shall glorify Your Name.” Psalm 86:9
Sarah
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Day 40 - 40 Reasons to Partner
Wow. It's day 40 already. To those of you who have been praying with us on this journey, it's not over yet. Thanks for praying! But let's keep going, okay?
Tomorrow is 8.6.09. We are already so much more connected to you all than before we started on this endeavor, and for that we thank our God! BUT WE'RE STILL IN OHIO! Look to the right of the page. That's the number left. It's not enormous. But that's what's keeping us here for now.
Today, we want to focus on 40 reasons to partner with Wycliffe Bible Translators.
Some of them you already know. Some of them might be new to you. Go ahead and read away!
Ready?
Here we go.
40 Reasons for you to partner with our ministry with Wycliffe Bible Translators:
1. 200 million people don't have a Bible translation started in their heart language.
2. You probably have AT LEAST one Bible in your home.
3. Paul says that you will be blessed by giving as well as those receiving your blessings. (Philippians 4:17)
4. If nobody gives, then nobody goes.
5. If nobody prays, then nobody knows. (Go with me on this one)
6. There are between 200 and 400 sign languages represented worldwide, and NONE of them have the whole Bible translated into their heart language. American Sign Language is the ONLY one that has the full New Testament.
7. You have access to not only ONE Bible in your heart language, but SEVERAL different versions in that language!
8. "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation." Mark 16:15
9. Your language has an alphabet.
10. You can read.
11. You can write.
12. You are among the wealthiest people in the world. (So are we)
13. It's a way to be a Bible Translator without having to leave your own home.
14. Somewhere around 4400 language communities still have no Scripture PUBLISHED in their heart language.
15. Of those, 2300 languages don't even have a translation project STARTED.
16. You can help bring truth to an entire community.
17. The need is just plain great!
18. Bible Translation is foundational to all kinds of evangelistic and missions efforts worldwide.
19. This generation may be the one to see God's Word being translated into EVERY person's heart language still needing one!
20. It takes a massive amount of resources to even get one translation project started.
21. It takes a massive amount of resources to get one translation project FINISHED.
22. If you want to read the Bible in another language other than your own, you can order it online at the touch of a button.
23. Bible Translation is TRANSFORMATIONAL within communities.
24. You are passionate about missions, but aren't called to go overseas.
25. There are thousands of positions URGENTLY NEEDED to be filled somewhere in the world through Wycliffe USA.
26. Two of those positions are the ones that are waiting for us in Orlando.
27. You are passionate about God's Word yourself.
28. You have FAITH that God will multiply the offerings of His people in the work of Bible Translation.
29. God has blessed you immensely, and you desire to use His blessings to bless others.
30. You didn't realize how great the need for Bible Translation was until now.
40. You sense our passion for this ministry and want to encourage it!
31. You love Brazil (or any other country that still has Bible translation needs!)
32. You love our kids and want to make sure they can eat while we're doing this great ministry! (that's not really a good reason, but it's still a true statement for grandparents especially)
33. You love different cultures and want to help preserve minority language groups and cultures and enrich it through Bible Translation efforts (this is actually a really good reason)!
34. You want to see people in poverty given the opportunity to have good education and access to healthcare through literacy.
35. You have always wanted to support a missionary/missionary family that you know personally.
36. You recognize that there is a difference between your heart language and another similar language.
37. You've been praying for one/both of us since we were little kids, and now you are excited to be a part of God's work in our lives.
38. You were waiting until day 40 to partner with us, just for fun!
39. You want to be a key part of the greatest acceleration of Bible Translation in HISTORY!
40. God may be telling you to.
Sorry this post is so late...but 40 is a lot! And I could go on, and on, and on, and on, and, well...you get the picture.
Please let us know if you'd like more info, or if you'd like to partner with us in any way!
We WILL be blogging tomorrow, too!
Trevor
Tomorrow is 8.6.09. We are already so much more connected to you all than before we started on this endeavor, and for that we thank our God! BUT WE'RE STILL IN OHIO! Look to the right of the page. That's the number left. It's not enormous. But that's what's keeping us here for now.
Today, we want to focus on 40 reasons to partner with Wycliffe Bible Translators.
Some of them you already know. Some of them might be new to you. Go ahead and read away!
Ready?
Here we go.
40 Reasons for you to partner with our ministry with Wycliffe Bible Translators:
1. 200 million people don't have a Bible translation started in their heart language.
2. You probably have AT LEAST one Bible in your home.
3. Paul says that you will be blessed by giving as well as those receiving your blessings. (Philippians 4:17)
4. If nobody gives, then nobody goes.
5. If nobody prays, then nobody knows. (Go with me on this one)
6. There are between 200 and 400 sign languages represented worldwide, and NONE of them have the whole Bible translated into their heart language. American Sign Language is the ONLY one that has the full New Testament.
7. You have access to not only ONE Bible in your heart language, but SEVERAL different versions in that language!
8. "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation." Mark 16:15
9. Your language has an alphabet.
10. You can read.
11. You can write.
12. You are among the wealthiest people in the world. (So are we)
13. It's a way to be a Bible Translator without having to leave your own home.
14. Somewhere around 4400 language communities still have no Scripture PUBLISHED in their heart language.
15. Of those, 2300 languages don't even have a translation project STARTED.
16. You can help bring truth to an entire community.
17. The need is just plain great!
18. Bible Translation is foundational to all kinds of evangelistic and missions efforts worldwide.
19. This generation may be the one to see God's Word being translated into EVERY person's heart language still needing one!
20. It takes a massive amount of resources to even get one translation project started.
21. It takes a massive amount of resources to get one translation project FINISHED.
22. If you want to read the Bible in another language other than your own, you can order it online at the touch of a button.
23. Bible Translation is TRANSFORMATIONAL within communities.
24. You are passionate about missions, but aren't called to go overseas.
25. There are thousands of positions URGENTLY NEEDED to be filled somewhere in the world through Wycliffe USA.
26. Two of those positions are the ones that are waiting for us in Orlando.
27. You are passionate about God's Word yourself.
28. You have FAITH that God will multiply the offerings of His people in the work of Bible Translation.
29. God has blessed you immensely, and you desire to use His blessings to bless others.
30. You didn't realize how great the need for Bible Translation was until now.
40. You sense our passion for this ministry and want to encourage it!
31. You love Brazil (or any other country that still has Bible translation needs!)
32. You love our kids and want to make sure they can eat while we're doing this great ministry! (that's not really a good reason, but it's still a true statement for grandparents especially)
33. You love different cultures and want to help preserve minority language groups and cultures and enrich it through Bible Translation efforts (this is actually a really good reason)!
34. You want to see people in poverty given the opportunity to have good education and access to healthcare through literacy.
35. You have always wanted to support a missionary/missionary family that you know personally.
36. You recognize that there is a difference between your heart language and another similar language.
37. You've been praying for one/both of us since we were little kids, and now you are excited to be a part of God's work in our lives.
38. You were waiting until day 40 to partner with us, just for fun!
39. You want to be a key part of the greatest acceleration of Bible Translation in HISTORY!
40. God may be telling you to.
Sorry this post is so late...but 40 is a lot! And I could go on, and on, and on, and on, and, well...you get the picture.
Please let us know if you'd like more info, or if you'd like to partner with us in any way!
We WILL be blogging tomorrow, too!
Trevor
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Day 39 - FAQ
Probably the most frequently asked question that we get right now is this: "Why are you here still?"
Or, phrased differently, "Why aren't you in Orlando yet?"
There is a very quick and simple answer to this. We are waiting for God to bring our team together.
Again (and again, and again), we cannot begin our first assignment in Orlando with Wycliffe Bible Translators USA until we have reached 100% of our ministry's monthly funding amount. There is a job (with a desk and everything) waiting for us in the Offices of the President, and many people are also waiting for us to fill in the gap that has not been filled in our absence.
I need to emphasize this, as always. We are not focusing on money. We are not just blogging daily in order to ask you for money. We're looking for PARTNERS. We're looking for our TEAM. And actually, WE'RE not the ones looking.
We have confidence that God is CALLING His people to the task of Bible Translation and to our specific ministry, and we can rest in that.
But if YOU have seen our blog (which at this point I am confident that you have!), we need YOU to pray about joining our team in some way. That's not a tough thing, and I'm not pressuring anyone to do anything but pray. I'm pretty sure you can't be angry with me for that!
The big thing that I hope to happen in the next two or three days is that everyone who has come here or knows us personally will seek after the Lord and search His will for a leading ONE WAY OR ANOTHER concerning our ministry with Wycliffe and then TELL US about it.
So this is my question to you.
Will you pray about joining our team (through financial partnership and prayer partnership) and then LET US KNOW if and how you'd like to be involved?
That's my struggle right now. I only have a limited view and limited time and energy to get in touch with everyone that God is working in. I know from my past week that many of you may be WAITING for us to call you, email you, write you, and that you may be excited and interested in partnering with us, but you're just waiting for us to bring it up. I will do my best to connect with you, I really will. But I'm not omniscient. God can lead me directly to you, but He can be leading you directly to me, too.
If you are waiting for us, please consider just calling us up. Or emailing. Or commenting on the blog. Or sending a facebook message. Or tweeting. You get the idea.
If you don't know us very well yet, we would love to get to know you better for the next, oh, 80 years or so as we are all on this journey together. It's a great way to form deep friendships and to encourage one another for years.
It's day 39. Of 40. Not that 40 is some special, magical number. But we are trusting in God to BREAK THROUGH.
Are you a part of it?
Trevor
Or, phrased differently, "Why aren't you in Orlando yet?"There is a very quick and simple answer to this. We are waiting for God to bring our team together.
Again (and again, and again), we cannot begin our first assignment in Orlando with Wycliffe Bible Translators USA until we have reached 100% of our ministry's monthly funding amount. There is a job (with a desk and everything) waiting for us in the Offices of the President, and many people are also waiting for us to fill in the gap that has not been filled in our absence.
I need to emphasize this, as always. We are not focusing on money. We are not just blogging daily in order to ask you for money. We're looking for PARTNERS. We're looking for our TEAM. And actually, WE'RE not the ones looking.
We have confidence that God is CALLING His people to the task of Bible Translation and to our specific ministry, and we can rest in that.
But if YOU have seen our blog (which at this point I am confident that you have!), we need YOU to pray about joining our team in some way. That's not a tough thing, and I'm not pressuring anyone to do anything but pray. I'm pretty sure you can't be angry with me for that!
The big thing that I hope to happen in the next two or three days is that everyone who has come here or knows us personally will seek after the Lord and search His will for a leading ONE WAY OR ANOTHER concerning our ministry with Wycliffe and then TELL US about it.
So this is my question to you.
Will you pray about joining our team (through financial partnership and prayer partnership) and then LET US KNOW if and how you'd like to be involved?
That's my struggle right now. I only have a limited view and limited time and energy to get in touch with everyone that God is working in. I know from my past week that many of you may be WAITING for us to call you, email you, write you, and that you may be excited and interested in partnering with us, but you're just waiting for us to bring it up. I will do my best to connect with you, I really will. But I'm not omniscient. God can lead me directly to you, but He can be leading you directly to me, too.
If you are waiting for us, please consider just calling us up. Or emailing. Or commenting on the blog. Or sending a facebook message. Or tweeting. You get the idea.
If you don't know us very well yet, we would love to get to know you better for the next, oh, 80 years or so as we are all on this journey together. It's a great way to form deep friendships and to encourage one another for years. It's day 39. Of 40. Not that 40 is some special, magical number. But we are trusting in God to BREAK THROUGH.
Are you a part of it?
Trevor
Monday, August 3, 2009
Day 38 - Mugshots
Well, this is the last Monday Mugshots of our 40 day focus. For today, I thought I'd let you get to know the leader of Wycliffe USA, Bob Creson. We'll be working in the Offices of the President when the Lord brings the rest of our team together (hoping and praying for SOON!), so it might be nice for you to know more about the man that God has placed in the position of President/CEO.
We've been able to spend a little time with Bob over the past year, and have really enjoyed watching him lead in both public ways and behind the scenes. We can't wait to be working alongside of him in the headquarters and learning from him throughout the time of our assignment there. Please be keeping Bob and his family in your prayers!
Here's more about him:
Quick facts:
Name: Bob Creson
Wife: Dallas
Kids: All Adults: Emily (33), married to Paul; Scott (31), married to Sarah; Jeff (27) married to Katrina; Tim (26)
Hometown: Ventura, California
Job Title: President and CEO of Wycliffe USA
Favorites:
Color: Blue or Green
Food: Thai
Ice Cream flavor: If I eat any, Bluebell Cookies and Cream
Sport: Golf
Place you have lived: California, Texas, Florida, France, and Cameroon
Piece of technology: iPhone :)
How long have you been involved with Wycliffe? 26 years.
What is the best thing about your job as President of Wycliffe USA? Sharing the vision that this generation could see the remaining Bible translation needs started.
If there was only one thing people "got" about Wycliffe, what would you hope it to be? Our work is transformational within communities.
Anything else you'd like to add?
Check out our blog at: http://wycliffeusa.wordpress.com
Check our website at: www.wycliffe.org
Check our YouTube Channel at: http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=WycliffeUSA&view=videos
Thanks for the interview, Bob! Hope to see you soon!
Trevor
We've been able to spend a little time with Bob over the past year, and have really enjoyed watching him lead in both public ways and behind the scenes. We can't wait to be working alongside of him in the headquarters and learning from him throughout the time of our assignment there. Please be keeping Bob and his family in your prayers!Here's more about him:
Quick facts:
Name: Bob Creson
Wife: Dallas
Kids: All Adults: Emily (33), married to Paul; Scott (31), married to Sarah; Jeff (27) married to Katrina; Tim (26)
Hometown: Ventura, California
Job Title: President and CEO of Wycliffe USA
Favorites:
Color: Blue or Green
Food: Thai
Ice Cream flavor: If I eat any, Bluebell Cookies and Cream
Sport: Golf
Place you have lived: California, Texas, Florida, France, and Cameroon
Piece of technology: iPhone :)
How long have you been involved with Wycliffe? 26 years.
What is the best thing about your job as President of Wycliffe USA? Sharing the vision that this generation could see the remaining Bible translation needs started.
If there was only one thing people "got" about Wycliffe, what would you hope it to be? Our work is transformational within communities.
Anything else you'd like to add?
Check out our blog at: http://wycliffeusa.wordpress.com
Check our website at: www.wycliffe.org
Check our YouTube Channel at: http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=WycliffeUSA&view=videos
Thanks for the interview, Bob! Hope to see you soon!
Trevor
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Day 37 - Selah
I ran five miles this morning. If any of you know me well, pick your jaw up off of the floor...I'm telling the truth. I promise.
While I was running, I was listening to a lecture on spiritual warfare by Mark Driscoll and I really had my "Selah" for the day. I reflected, learned, paused, rested (I know, while RUNNING even), and drew closer to God through learning about His character.
One of the things that stuck out to me was about bitterness. As Pastor Driscoll was talking about the various forms of demonic activity, he hung out on bitterness for awhile, and I was convicted to search my own heart for any stored up bitterness that the enemy could use as a foothold in my life.
Here's a quote from Amy Carmichael, a missionary to India, from her poem, "If":
"If a sudden jar can cause me to speak an impatient, unloving word, then I know nothing of Calvary love. For a cup brimful of sweet water cannot spill even one drop of bitter water, however suddenly jolted."
Have you ever had someone bitter at you for something? It can be something that you did to them or even something that they perceived you to have done, but actually didn't do. Has someone let an impatient, unloving word out in response to you? Have YOU ever let an impatient, unloving word come out towards someone else in bitterness?
If you have sweet water in your cup, then when it's "bumped" by someone, only sweet water will be able to spill out. But if your cup is ALREADY full of bitter water, when it's bumped, only bitter water can come out.
What I'm trying to say is that we have no excuse as followers of Christ to let bitterness flow from our cup. It won't spill out if we haven't been allowing it to sit and fester in our rotten cup. Look, people are going to bother you. I will probably get on your nerves. You may bump into me or rub me the wrong way. Hard to believe, right?
I've been trying to get my cup cleaned today so that I can replace the bitter junk with the sweet water of forgiveness and Christ's love.
What about yours?
Trevor
While I was running, I was listening to a lecture on spiritual warfare by Mark Driscoll and I really had my "Selah" for the day. I reflected, learned, paused, rested (I know, while RUNNING even), and drew closer to God through learning about His character.
One of the things that stuck out to me was about bitterness. As Pastor Driscoll was talking about the various forms of demonic activity, he hung out on bitterness for awhile, and I was convicted to search my own heart for any stored up bitterness that the enemy could use as a foothold in my life.
Here's a quote from Amy Carmichael, a missionary to India, from her poem, "If":
"If a sudden jar can cause me to speak an impatient, unloving word, then I know nothing of Calvary love. For a cup brimful of sweet water cannot spill even one drop of bitter water, however suddenly jolted."
Have you ever had someone bitter at you for something? It can be something that you did to them or even something that they perceived you to have done, but actually didn't do. Has someone let an impatient, unloving word out in response to you? Have YOU ever let an impatient, unloving word come out towards someone else in bitterness?
If you have sweet water in your cup, then when it's "bumped" by someone, only sweet water will be able to spill out. But if your cup is ALREADY full of bitter water, when it's bumped, only bitter water can come out.
What I'm trying to say is that we have no excuse as followers of Christ to let bitterness flow from our cup. It won't spill out if we haven't been allowing it to sit and fester in our rotten cup. Look, people are going to bother you. I will probably get on your nerves. You may bump into me or rub me the wrong way. Hard to believe, right?
I've been trying to get my cup cleaned today so that I can replace the bitter junk with the sweet water of forgiveness and Christ's love.
What about yours?
Trevor
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Day 36 - A GREAT new resource!
I'm going to keep this one brief. (I know what you're thinking...can he BE brief?!)
There is a new resource online that brings the world to your fingertips. It's unbelievable what we have available to us in the age of the internet, isn't it? This new website is called TheWordIsLife.net and it was just launched by Wycliffe International as well as several other partner organizations.
I HIGHLY recommend that you peruse this website. It has (among many other things) current information on THOUSANDS of languages and communities in the world (I don't know for sure, but it seems to be pretty exhaustive). Just click on a world map, choose a country, find a language, and see all of the known stats about the region, number of speakers, religion, access to Bible translations, etc.
Seriously, this is COOL.
You don't even have to be a linguistic geek to appreciate it. Also, there are hundreds of prayer requests from around the world and great stories of how God is using Bible Translation to transform cultures and people with God's Word.
Check it out. You'll be glad you did.
Oh, and if you haven't played around with the audio Bible clips on the right side of this blog, it's really neat. My newest cousin, Annie, speaks Tagalog, which is an absolutely BEAUTIFUL language.
It was relatively brief, right?
Trevor
Friday, July 31, 2009
Day 35 - Friday's Fotos
For Friday’s Fotos today, I want to introduce you to my Aunt Matilda.
Aunt Matilda is just over 80 years old and she has come to mean more to me than ever before. Let me tell you why.
This woman is a prayer warrior. She is a servant of the Lord. She is steadfast in Christ her Lord. She is honest about her shortcomings. She is an encourager. She is a true representation of what it means to walk by faith.
She is a Bible translator.
Not in the sense that you would imagine. She has never gone to Brazil or Papua New Guinea or India or any such other place to live among a people she does not know or a culture she does not understand.
She has, however, joined with us on this journey. She is praying and she is sacrificing of herself so that we may go and in some senses “be the feet to her prayers”. You might try to argue that my calling her a “Bible translator” seems silly (especially since we are not yet at our assignment!)...I pray that the Lord would give you new understanding.
Aunt Matilda is a missionary without ever stepping out of her own home. She is a part of the great commission without ever buying plane tickets. She is serving the Lord in a very REAL, NECESSARY, and CRUCIAL way. And we are not the only family that this woman of God partners with.
This morning I had the chance to pray with her and for her over the phone. We connected on a level that can only be reached when you are learning through the struggle and you are asking God to move. She sharpened me today by encouraging me and pointing me to Scripture and the God who hears. I thank God for her today.
This task truly cannot be done without a team.
Sarah
Aunt Matilda is just over 80 years old and she has come to mean more to me than ever before. Let me tell you why.
This woman is a prayer warrior. She is a servant of the Lord. She is steadfast in Christ her Lord. She is honest about her shortcomings. She is an encourager. She is a true representation of what it means to walk by faith.
She is a Bible translator.
Not in the sense that you would imagine. She has never gone to Brazil or Papua New Guinea or India or any such other place to live among a people she does not know or a culture she does not understand.
She has, however, joined with us on this journey. She is praying and she is sacrificing of herself so that we may go and in some senses “be the feet to her prayers”. You might try to argue that my calling her a “Bible translator” seems silly (especially since we are not yet at our assignment!)...I pray that the Lord would give you new understanding.
Aunt Matilda is a missionary without ever stepping out of her own home. She is a part of the great commission without ever buying plane tickets. She is serving the Lord in a very REAL, NECESSARY, and CRUCIAL way. And we are not the only family that this woman of God partners with.
This morning I had the chance to pray with her and for her over the phone. We connected on a level that can only be reached when you are learning through the struggle and you are asking God to move. She sharpened me today by encouraging me and pointing me to Scripture and the God who hears. I thank God for her today.
This task truly cannot be done without a team.
Sarah
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Day 34 - Look at all those Bibles
Today's blog is a video that we took at our local bookstore (with permission...well, we got in trouble once, but it all got straightened out!) to illustrate how privileged we are in this country.
I hope you find it interesting, but I really hope that it puts a rock in your shoe. You know, the kind that you can't ignore when you're just walking down the road. You know what I mean.
I hope you find it interesting, but I really hope that it puts a rock in your shoe. You know, the kind that you can't ignore when you're just walking down the road. You know what I mean.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Day 33 - Where in the World?
When thinking about an overseas missions agency, your mind most naturally goes to the work that is taking place in a far-off land...over seas.
Today we want to bring to light a portion of Wycliffe USA’s work that takes place right here in the United States. Generally speaking, the actual translating happens in other countries (there are a few smaller language groups here in the US that have needed specific translations), but there is a bunch of work that takes place here in the US to help people get involved so that the translations can actually have people to get them started!
One such important task is strategically getting the word out about the need that’s out there. To help in this area, many U.S.-assigned workers are using their gifts and abilities to support the work of Bible translation using media and the internet.
Here are a few examples:
Bob Creson (along with other Bible translation workers) is interviewed for a 5-part radio series on Moody Radio focused on the work of Bible translation. Listen to it here.
On YouTube you can find several videos that Wycliffe has put together here in the states. We’ve posted one for you to see on this post. To view the rest of Wycliffe’s videos, click here.
Wycliffe USA has a blog (through WordPress) that is kept up to date with stories, videos, news, etc. about how God is working through Bible translation.
Wycliffe workers here in the US keep the official Wycliffe website current, functional, and visually appealing so that people can learn about where the organization is working, how to get involved, how to pray, etc. etc. at the click of a mouse.
Why do we need to get the word out?
Because this is a global task for the body of Christ. The more people are aware of the need, the more God can use them to accomplish the task of reaching all people with the good news of the gospel.
Sarah
Today we want to bring to light a portion of Wycliffe USA’s work that takes place right here in the United States. Generally speaking, the actual translating happens in other countries (there are a few smaller language groups here in the US that have needed specific translations), but there is a bunch of work that takes place here in the US to help people get involved so that the translations can actually have people to get them started!
One such important task is strategically getting the word out about the need that’s out there. To help in this area, many U.S.-assigned workers are using their gifts and abilities to support the work of Bible translation using media and the internet.
Here are a few examples:
Bob Creson (along with other Bible translation workers) is interviewed for a 5-part radio series on Moody Radio focused on the work of Bible translation. Listen to it here.
On YouTube you can find several videos that Wycliffe has put together here in the states. We’ve posted one for you to see on this post. To view the rest of Wycliffe’s videos, click here.
Wycliffe USA has a blog (through WordPress) that is kept up to date with stories, videos, news, etc. about how God is working through Bible translation.
Wycliffe workers here in the US keep the official Wycliffe website current, functional, and visually appealing so that people can learn about where the organization is working, how to get involved, how to pray, etc. etc. at the click of a mouse.
Why do we need to get the word out?
Because this is a global task for the body of Christ. The more people are aware of the need, the more God can use them to accomplish the task of reaching all people with the good news of the gospel.
Sarah
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Day 32 - FAQ
FAQ
I’m taking the roundabout way to get there, but I want to answer some of the other questions that we get asked a lot (or that people don’t even know they should ask until I ask THEM the question).
How can I get involved in your ministry?
Okay, this is really important. I think that a lot of people are very interested in our ministry with Wycliffe Bible Translators. But I also think that a lot of people don’t know it yet. If you found any of our blogs the least bit interesting (if you haven’t read them yet, feel free to peruse the archives!), and you have now come BACK, you are probably interested in our ministry at some level.
Now, I don’t mean that you are being called by God in grand fashion to become a financial partner with this ministry today...I’m not holding my hand out for money or anything like that. But get this. Some of you have known us for the majority of our lives. Some of you have never even met us. Some of you will be working with us in Wycliffe (actually, a lot of you are reading this from the office in Orlando!). And some of you are simply interested in our blog because someone in the UK retweeted my blog post about sign language Bible translation projects a few days back(Twitter is cool like that)!
Whatever your level of interest, YOU are already a part of our team.
Got it? None of you are strangers now to the worldwide work of Bible Translation. I desperately want you to understand this! We, collectively, are a part of what God is doing around the world to bring His Word to the least, the last, and the lost.
Okay, so here is the answer that maybe you were looking for.
We have a team of people around the world (literally - from Brazil and South Korea) that have committed to pray with and for our ministry and family. The number of people is growing all the time, and right now we have had people praying every day for 32 days straight for God to bring a breakthrough in our work. It is such a HUGE privilege and honor to have dear friends and family lifting us up before God daily, and you can be a part of this connection, too. Just send me an email, post a comment, write a Facebook message, call me, write a letter, etc., etc., etc. If you’d like to be a part of our prayer team.
We also have a team of individuals that have committed to giving financially towards the ministry we have with Wycliffe on a recurring basis (monthly, quarterly, or annually). We do not have a guaranteed salary (nope, not even working in the Wycliffe USA headquarters in Orlando) and this is a purely faith-based ministry where we trust the Lord to provide for all of our financial needs.
Since we’re hoping to be released to our assignment in Orlando soon, I would ask that you PRAY about this option. If God clearly directs you to partner with us financially, GREAT! If not, GREAT! We have learned in the past year that God moves in mysterious ways, and there is no pressure on us to motivate or coerce anyone into getting involved. He’ll move in His way in His timing in His pleasure, and so on.
If you do feel that urge to be a financial partner, you can let me know through a call, email, etc., or look to the right side of our blog and click on the link to set up a donation (one-time or recurring through EFT). You can also send in one of our brochures (if you have one) and/or your donation with a SEPARATE note designating the gift to Trevor and Sarah Schuh #218803 to:
Wycliffe Bible Translators
P.O. Box 628200
Orlando, FL 32862
OR, you can just call 1-800-WYCLIFFE and ask your questions over the phone!
Now, I was planning on answering some more questions, but I’ve already been too verbose...so we’ll talk again tomorrow!
Trevor
I’m taking the roundabout way to get there, but I want to answer some of the other questions that we get asked a lot (or that people don’t even know they should ask until I ask THEM the question).
How can I get involved in your ministry?
Okay, this is really important. I think that a lot of people are very interested in our ministry with Wycliffe Bible Translators. But I also think that a lot of people don’t know it yet. If you found any of our blogs the least bit interesting (if you haven’t read them yet, feel free to peruse the archives!), and you have now come BACK, you are probably interested in our ministry at some level.
Now, I don’t mean that you are being called by God in grand fashion to become a financial partner with this ministry today...I’m not holding my hand out for money or anything like that. But get this. Some of you have known us for the majority of our lives. Some of you have never even met us. Some of you will be working with us in Wycliffe (actually, a lot of you are reading this from the office in Orlando!). And some of you are simply interested in our blog because someone in the UK retweeted my blog post about sign language Bible translation projects a few days back(Twitter is cool like that)!
Whatever your level of interest, YOU are already a part of our team.
Got it? None of you are strangers now to the worldwide work of Bible Translation. I desperately want you to understand this! We, collectively, are a part of what God is doing around the world to bring His Word to the least, the last, and the lost.
Okay, so here is the answer that maybe you were looking for.
We have a team of people around the world (literally - from Brazil and South Korea) that have committed to pray with and for our ministry and family. The number of people is growing all the time, and right now we have had people praying every day for 32 days straight for God to bring a breakthrough in our work. It is such a HUGE privilege and honor to have dear friends and family lifting us up before God daily, and you can be a part of this connection, too. Just send me an email, post a comment, write a Facebook message, call me, write a letter, etc., etc., etc. If you’d like to be a part of our prayer team.
We also have a team of individuals that have committed to giving financially towards the ministry we have with Wycliffe on a recurring basis (monthly, quarterly, or annually). We do not have a guaranteed salary (nope, not even working in the Wycliffe USA headquarters in Orlando) and this is a purely faith-based ministry where we trust the Lord to provide for all of our financial needs.
Since we’re hoping to be released to our assignment in Orlando soon, I would ask that you PRAY about this option. If God clearly directs you to partner with us financially, GREAT! If not, GREAT! We have learned in the past year that God moves in mysterious ways, and there is no pressure on us to motivate or coerce anyone into getting involved. He’ll move in His way in His timing in His pleasure, and so on.
If you do feel that urge to be a financial partner, you can let me know through a call, email, etc., or look to the right side of our blog and click on the link to set up a donation (one-time or recurring through EFT). You can also send in one of our brochures (if you have one) and/or your donation with a SEPARATE note designating the gift to Trevor and Sarah Schuh #218803 to:
Wycliffe Bible Translators
P.O. Box 628200
Orlando, FL 32862
OR, you can just call 1-800-WYCLIFFE and ask your questions over the phone!
Now, I was planning on answering some more questions, but I’ve already been too verbose...so we’ll talk again tomorrow!
Trevor
Monday, July 27, 2009
Day 31 - Monday Mugshots
Eliana
And now for the littlest Schuh of all.
Her name is Eliana, but to those who know her the best, she’s just “Yana”.
Quick facts:
Birthday: 12/25/08
Daddy and Mommy: Trevor and Sarah
Siblings: 1
Hometown: Stow, OH
Favorites
Color: Who cares...is it smiling? Then I like it.
Food: Milk
Composer: Whoever wrote that lullaby that my mobile plays. But Daddy thinks I’ll like Debussy when I’m older.
Apparel: Nothing but a diaper.
Activity: Bouncing in my bouncy-bouncy-roo.
Here’s a little bit about our 7-month-old that you may or may not know.
Being born on Christmas Day has it’s ups and downs. Eliana shares a birthday with my hero (and hopefully hers someday, too), but she’s hoping that we’ll celebrate on her half-birthday so she gets more presents. She told me so.
She is one of the happiest kids you’ve ever seen, and I’m not just saying that. All Eliana needs is someone to look at her and she melts into a grin the size of Texas. She’s had dark, dark eyes and hair from the day she was born, and she absolutely adores her big sister. If there are 50 people in a room, and Acacia is one of them, it’s guaranteed that her eyes will be fixated on her favorite buddy.
Whereas Acácia has always been very quietly observant, Eliana is just plain curious. She’ll lunge at anything she thinks she can get her hands on, which makes us a little nervous about the things that she’ll be getting into when she can move around quicker!
Ticklish babies are the best in the world, and Eliana is EXTREMELY ticklish. You’ll have to experience that on your own, though.
Well, that’s the rundown on our family. We like to have fun, play games, read books, and just laugh a lot. We love spending time with family and friends, and going to the park is just about the best thing in the world! Speaking of, I think Sarah and the girls are on their way out the door to the park right now.
Hope you have a great day!
Trevor
And now for the littlest Schuh of all.
Her name is Eliana, but to those who know her the best, she’s just “Yana”.
Quick facts:Birthday: 12/25/08
Daddy and Mommy: Trevor and Sarah
Siblings: 1
Hometown: Stow, OH
Favorites
Color: Who cares...is it smiling? Then I like it.
Food: Milk
Composer: Whoever wrote that lullaby that my mobile plays. But Daddy thinks I’ll like Debussy when I’m older.
Apparel: Nothing but a diaper.
Activity: Bouncing in my bouncy-bouncy-roo.
Here’s a little bit about our 7-month-old that you may or may not know.
Being born on Christmas Day has it’s ups and downs. Eliana shares a birthday with my hero (and hopefully hers someday, too), but she’s hoping that we’ll celebrate on her half-birthday so she gets more presents. She told me so.
She is one of the happiest kids you’ve ever seen, and I’m not just saying that. All Eliana needs is someone to look at her and she melts into a grin the size of Texas. She’s had dark, dark eyes and hair from the day she was born, and she absolutely adores her big sister. If there are 50 people in a room, and Acacia is one of them, it’s guaranteed that her eyes will be fixated on her favorite buddy. Whereas Acácia has always been very quietly observant, Eliana is just plain curious. She’ll lunge at anything she thinks she can get her hands on, which makes us a little nervous about the things that she’ll be getting into when she can move around quicker!
Ticklish babies are the best in the world, and Eliana is EXTREMELY ticklish. You’ll have to experience that on your own, though.
Well, that’s the rundown on our family. We like to have fun, play games, read books, and just laugh a lot. We love spending time with family and friends, and going to the park is just about the best thing in the world! Speaking of, I think Sarah and the girls are on their way out the door to the park right now.
Hope you have a great day!
Trevor
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