Christmas Greetings Dear Friends,
“Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened…” John 2:15
For many of you this has been a reality, to go to Bethlehem. For others of you, maybe you’ve not physically been there. But for this holiday season we’d like to encourage all of us to “go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened.” Let’s travel with the shepherds as they follow the star… seeing anew the bright light of Christ in our lives; walking in that light with a hope and purpose and ready with our hands to reach out to others in love. This is a wonderful season… “Let’s go…”
We are in the midst of Winter break…the 1st semester ended last Friday, the 12th of December and the 2nd semester begins on January 9th. We said our goodbyes to all 4 of the Canadian students (Jenna, Jordan, Sherdan and Josh) and the German student (Manuel). The Albanian students (Albana, Niko and Loli) will be back for the second semester as well as some new incoming students from here in Albania, America and Canada. Please pray for all those who are making decisions about coming next semester to Udhekryq (Crossroads) Torchbearers Bible School. Crossroads is certainly an appropriate name for this school as each of these young people find themselves in just such a place…a life full of decisions for school, work, dating, marriage, lifestyle…all come during these 20-something years. We pray for each of them as they pursue different avenues that they will trust the Lord’s leading and know His ways are for their best.
We’re not missing the continual buzz of Christmas commercials that flood your radios and televisions during this time of year, because here it is much simpler. The town is decorated with lights and Christmas trees and we’re slowly getting our apartment decorated including listening to the music of Christmas. The main hall at the Bible school is decorated and there is a fresh tree from the forest that now has ornaments and lights. We will be using the hall for a woman’s gathering next Saturday and an all-church fellowship time on Christmas Day. Our times together are mostly about being with each other…eating, games, watching a movie, making crafts, singing carols. This makes for a very slowed down Christmas season, and one we love.
Our winter here in Erseke has been windy and cold, some rain, but very little snow. The locals say snow will come later in January and February. We find ourselves bundled up in 2 or 3 layers and very comfortable as we go to town for shopping. Everyone scurries and they tend not to linger outdoors too long…but nevertheless there’s always time for a greeting. This is a very relational culture and the weather doesn’t change that wonderful part of it.
We pray you find this Christmas season a true blessing. May the star that led the shepherds to the Christ child be a light unto your feet as you travel to Bethlehem and into your Christmas celebrations. We wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Blessings & Love,
Bob & Linda
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