One of the last texts I received before leaving the states was from my sister Megan. She shared some scripture with me.
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of
various kinds, for you know that the testing of faith produces steadfastness.” - James
1:2-3
The last few days was filled with JOY. Some joy that came
naturally from beautiful situations that we were thankful to be in, but some of
that joy came from trials, challenges, frustrations, disappointments, HARD
TIMES.
In the end the truly joyful times outweigh the trials, and
we are grateful!
The challenges:
- The place we were planning to stay fell through
- Saying goodbye to people (especially my parents who have served us greatly over the last 2 years, THANKS!)
- Waiting on the first plane for 1 hour before taking off
- 1 of our bags didn’t make it
- Exhausted after only 5 hours of sleep
- Thomas is only eating crackers and occasionally some applesauce (Hope this changes soon!)
- A pickup truck almost hit us while trying to pass us while we were turning left. SO SCARY! They went into a ditch but never hit our car. Nobody even had a scratch! Willing to call it “our fault.” Trying to be more Christ like and not make enemies
 |
| Special time with Grann and Grandpa before heading to Honduras |
 |
| Hanging out with friends that are missed dearly |
 |
| Enjoying a visit with longtime friends |
 |
| Appreciate you 2 more than you know! Miss you all and the church already |
The joys:
- Visiting with many friends and family before our departure
- Financial blessings poured out- THANK YOU!
- We found a place to stay temporarily, and they are giving us a much better deal than usual
- Smooth transition in Atlanta to second plane
- Thomas was great on the flights
- 8 out of 9 bags did make it. The other was delivered today!
- Privilege of seeing some friends at the San Pedro Sula Airport
- We have a vehicle! WOW! Still can hardly believe that!
- Safe arrival in Peña Blanca
- GREAT visit with the girls’ home Eternal Family Project. Three year old Lizbee took care of Thomas- bringing him toys and keeping a hand on him whenever he was walking (She was afraid he would trip!) Thomas loved the attention from Gaby and the other girls.
- Thomas is happy (most of the time).
- Met people working with the Ministry Heart to Honduras. Great new connection and they prayed with us!
- Thomas slept through the night and has been napping great too!
- Marvin was able to register for the Dr. Stephen Youngberg Mechanic School, Classes start the first of February!!! PRAISE GOD!
- We are uninjured and safe after the close call with a truck
- Our circumstances have helped to focus our eyes on the Lord, His goodness, His generosity, and His promises!
 |
| Thomas resting in the airport |
 |
| Visiting Eternal Family Project |
 |
| Thomas making himself at home with the girls |
As we move forward we are tempted to ask God, “Will you be faithful tomorrow?” Thankfully as doubts fill our minds, so does our friend Grayson’s sermon that we heard at Scenic City Church on our last Sunday in the states. He shared Psalm 77 with us. As the psalmist cries out to God with his doubts, he is reminded of the things God has done in the past.
"I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds." - Psalm 77:11-12
Whether a challenge or a triumph, we count it ALL as JOY!
And will God be faithful tomorrow? YES, because He was today, yesterday, and
the many days that led to now.
Please join us in prayer as we ask God for the following:
- A place to rent
- For Thomas to eat a variety of foods
- Our family to rest and travel well
- To find a church family
- Close friends
- Financial provision
- Safety
- WISDOM, PEACE, and UNITY
Blessings and Love,
Karen Ramos
