Praise and Prayer Update (January 20, 2023)

Linda and I want to thank so many of you for praying for us over the past week as we’ve been ill. Your concern and care has meant a great deal to us. I (Rick) have been recovering from pneumonia. Linda has done such an amazing job caring for me while she’s been ill. I’m grateful for God’s gift of a wonderful wife for the past 40 years (we celebrate our 40th anniversary this June).

I want to give praise to the Lord for sustaining us and helping us start to regain strength. Last night, I had my best night of sleep in weeks. I get winded easily, but am improving in stamina. Linda has felt strong enough to take part in her ESL classes online.

This morning I read these word from Jesus recorded in Matthew 19:29: “And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold and will inherit eternal life.” In our ministry moves, we’ve experienced the “leavings” Jesus spoke about. But we’ve also received the “hundredfold” blessing of friends and colleagues who have treated us like family. Over the past few weeks, we’ve been lavished with meals, cards, flowers, calls and encouraging emails. Most of all we’ve been upheld by the “prayers of many” (2 Cor. 1:11).

I want to express our thanks for the kindnesses we’ve received. It has meant a great deal to both of us.

Here are a few prayer requests I’d invite you to remember as you pray for us and the school.

Regaining Strength: Would you ask the Lord to raise us back up to health and strength so we can serve Him once again at the school and beyond.

New CFO needed: We are currently needing to fill the role of CFO at Heritage. This is a vital position and a critical need. Please ask the Lord to direct us to the right person.

Leadership Team at Heritage. In my absence, the rest of the President’s Cabinet have carried extra weight. They’ve done a stellar job and have given wise oversight to the school. Please pray that the Lord upholds these godly men: Chuck Schoenmaker, Godfrey Thorogood, Barry Howson, and Steve West.

Thank you for your love and prayers.