I Want to Publicly Say; "Thank You!"

As many of you know or have figured out, our youngest daughter Corina has left for South Africa to attend a Missions College and work in the mission field with a man God has placed into our lives that is willing to take my "Beena" (my nickname for her) into his home and continue to be a Father to her.  His name is Pastor Greg Matthei minister of Athlone Baptist Church in South Africa.

Many people have praised Carey and I for how Corina is turning out - WE HAD HELP!  First and foremost I thank the Holy Spirit for the work He has done and is doing in Beena's life.  Next, Corina has had three mentors, each a strong woman of faith in Christ; Sarah Gowder, Jamie Timmins and Katie Blocker.  Corina has had two Christian counselors; Linda Silva and Emily Shoaf.  On Wednesday's nights her bible teacher and missions advocate was Chris Timmins.




Last and foremost, Corina's Youth Pastor, Scotty Jarrard.  Scotty has a very special place in Corina's life.  He was with us from the beginning.  Scotty took the day off to be with Corina and protect her during the custody battle and appropriately Scotty was with us at the airport (two hours away from where we all live) last night as she left for South Africa.  Not only did he come to the airport but brought a van load of Corina's friends.  Today Scotty reminded me that several years ago I told him that Jesus picked Twelve and out of them He had a special group of Three, and out of them He One, "the one whom Jesus loved" (the Apostle John).  When I mentioned this in a training class for the Church Teachers, I remember Scotty blurting out; " I know who my "one" is - it's Josh" (my oldest son).  Today Scotty Reminded me of that day and then told me Carey and I had produced another "one" (another "John"), only this time it is a she, it's Corina!

While most 18 year olds are trying to "find themselves" or get their lives "together" my 18 year old is answering God's call, not out of bravery but obedience.  If you want your how ever old to answer God's call - get them to start listening first and that starts with you and some help of course.








Blessings

ernie

PS My Beena I Miss You So Much
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