Tuesday, September 23, 2008

family time





I love Alaska and just the whole lifestyle which is the norm here. This weekend we went blueberry picking up at Hatchers Pass to try and find some of the last "trophy" size berries of the season. While we were up there, it began to snow and I realized I was watching two seasons at once, down in the valley it was still autumn w/ the leaves yellow and orange, but up in the mountains it was already winter! I cant wait until Jazmin is up here and is able to experience all of these things, I cant help but think that her relationship with God will grow just from seeing a change of scenery for once!! Just a little update, I am now working part time at my congregation here, I am taking two sunset classes, preaching and teaching when I have the chance, and mainly doing visits with different people from the church and also with the lost. In the early mornings (1a.m. to 5:30a.m.) I deliver the local newspaper, and this is only 3 times a week. My ministry at the church here isnt really a "job" per say, but more of my passion and my life. My job with the paper allows me to be able to preach and serve the Lord full time. Isnt it great how the Lord provides? I know that I will need more money come next June after the wedding, but im in a safe, comfortable place right now and for that I am thankful. I love you all and God bless - Ben

Friday, September 12, 2008

good to be home



hey everyone, sorry its been a while since i have posted. i made it back safely to Alaska and its been really nice to be in one place, where i know i will stay for more than a few weeks, months, or years. i can finally "settle down" for a while and start planning my life with Jazmin here, according to Gods will of course. so basically i am working at the Valley Church of Christ, its the congregation that i grew up in and im really excited to start my ministry here. the body is loving and very tight knit but i know that there is always room to grow in Christ and hone our abilities and gifts that are given to us by God. not only is the church body here of a good size already, but there are still so many people here in Alaska who are yet to know about Jesus! we are one of the most unchurched states in the Union, so that is a task in itself. i cant wait to see what kind of fruit God starts producing here. i will keep updating as more things start to happen, but right now im just taking it easy. love you all and God bless - Ben