Before we left Benin, the kids recorded a video tour of our home and Rift Valley Academy (www.rva.org). The post-production editor (me) took way too long to finally edit the video. But it is done and can be seen on YouTube at:
Donna and Micah Joy made it safely to Benin and they are settling into the rhythm of life there. Donna feels pretty good from her surgeries; some days she is a bit sore and has yet to return to her previous energy levels. Her doctor said it would be a couple more months before her full energy levels would return. Please pray for Donna’s energy levels.
As many of you know, TWR is constructing new missionary houses and the plan was for Donna to move into a new home when she arrived. The housing project is just a bit behind schedule so Donna and Micah Joy are back in our old house anticipating the move to our new house. Pray for them as they figure out what to unpack and what to leave packed. In addition, Donna will start teaching the Kennedy boys on Monday (January 14).
Most of you know that I am taking a study sabbatical. This study sabbatical will be the start of my work on a PhD in New Testament interpretation. Pursuing a PhD is something that Donna and I have been praying about for a number of years and feel that the time is right to start this process. I will be formally applying to South Africa Theological Seminary (I have been provisionally accepted).
South Africa Theological Seminary is a non-resident program (i.e. I will study from Benin) so I will continue with my position as Station Director with TWR in Benin as I study. Plans are in place for more help to be around the Benin Transmitting Station, so my schedule should not be as full as it has been in the past.
During the time I was caring for Donna after her surgeries, and her dad while her mom had surgery, I lost key time to finish up our furlough responsibilities. As a result I was a bit late starting my study sabbatical. In an attempt to regain some of this time, I will be leaving the USA at the end of January, two weeks later than originally planned.
Your prayers for the start of this new endeavor would be appreciated. Please pray that the next three weeks would yield very fruitful study and for the extended separation of Donna and I. Pray that I can change my tickets without any problems (I have waited to change my tickets just in case Donna was not feeling well).
As always, thanks for your prayers.
PS For those of you interested in my topic, Lord willing, it will be in the area of using social science in New Testament interpretation; more specifically, using the cross-cultural communication research of Geert Hofstede and his six cultural dimensions in biblical interpretation.