Having lived overseas for 13 years now, I have made many adjustments in order to live well in a new country. At the same time, there are moments where I can feel the loss of living in the States. March Madness is one of these times, as it has always been one of my favorite tournaments. Because of the time zone and access, I have not followed the tournament for years, and I do miss it! Yet, I am enjoying and keeping quite busy with the madness (in great ways) that is unfolding here!

Left Picture. These incredible women serve the refugee work in Cologne, Germany. We have developed friendships over the years, working together and cheering on one another. Katie (along with 2 of her 3 children pictured: Katalina and Isabella), Kayla, Ember (the bride), and Nia have become like sisters. We have regular calls to share what God is doing in and through us, to encourage and challenge one another to continue to press on in life and ministry.

Right Picture. Esther, Jonah and Emilia are all 21 years old and chasing hard after Jesus. It is a great gift that their current schedules allow them to commit to a weekly afternoon coffee table to serve the neighbors and open to see where conversations land. Because of their abilities, we have had conversations in English, Swedish, French, and Spanish. Please pray for them as God continues to develop their gifting and abilities that are impacting the nations. Weekly Coffee table continues to yield conversations and provide opportunities to invite people to consider Jesus. Please pray for this weekly time for favor and protection. 

This is the view outside my window from a guest room/office. I am thankful to get to watch the sunrise, being reminded that His mercies are new and that He continually goes before me. There are many realities that I walk into, and I am very aware of my need for Him to guide me in the steps, providing wisdom and understanding. 

Pray for our Friday Night Community. As we continue to grow, tensions between understanding theology, handling visitors who have different belief systems, and doing all we hope to do with our limitations are part of our weekly conversations. Pray for unity as we seek the Lord to guide us and build a strong foundation to continue to grow into something more. 

Pray for the Studies. As I am aiming to graduate this December, I will need to turn in a full first draft to my supervisor by June. Pray for the final 12 interviews. Pray for focused writing times and discernment to present conclusions that honor the research and are helpful to the church and missions today.

Pray for the final financial provision. I am always humbled to live a life based on the generosity of others. These past months, outside the incredible monthly commitments that are made, a little over $10,000 has been donated to help my account stay in the green! Looking forward, there are costs outside of monthly needs that include the summer missions project and a few vision trips to locations where we are starting new projects with the vision of new churches. I am also hoping to attend a debriefing conference this fall to provide an opportunity to reflect on what has been these last 17 years in ministry and what is coming. I am praying for another $6000 to cover these costs. If you or someone you know would like to contribute, here is the link.

May the Lord bless you and encourage your heart. As Spring approaches and we enjoy the warmer weather, let us be inspired by what new growth is going to appear in our own lives and those around us.

Blessings,Sarah