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| Jim Cummings Peace on Earth!!! December 2002 Dear friends and family, A big hug and hearty Merry Christmas from the Cummings family in Macau! Isn't it great to know that we serve the Prince of Peace? The words "Wonderful, Counselor, almighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace" from the Messiah ar echoing around the world this month irregardless of the political turmoil that is present in each country (Is.9:6). The peace that comes from Jesus in our own hearts and lives is certainly worth shouting about! With that in mind, our prayer of thanks to you, our dear friends and family is that found in Numbers 6:24-26 "The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." We consider your part invaluable and precious in the sight of God. Thank you so much for your faithfulness in friendship, support and prayer. Sometimes we've been so busy with family life and ministry that we don't even tell you how to pray, but God seems to keep you praying. One example being Margaret Hart from Biola University (Hart Hall was after her) who faithfully prays for us on Tuesdays. I figured out that with the time difference, she is upholding our Mom's group that meets every Wednesday morning. I hadn't solicited much prayer, but knew God was still working. Now I know why. I know many others pray for us daily. We need it! This is a spiritual battle, and we feel it on every level: physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, etc. Though it's not easy, it's certainly exciting to see how God is working! We can see it in not only the Mom's groups and our little church next door (Great Praise), but also in the evangelistic street meetings every Sunday evening, the late night Bible studies Jim teaches and the contract worker ministries! God is pursuing His people in such loving and gentle ways. It's beautiful to see. Believe it or not, we had our Christmas tree set up in October in preparation for an absolutely wonderful visit from my parents, Nate and Carolyn Waltz. We had an early Christmas meal with almost all the trappings and lots of wonderful surprises from Grandpa and Grandma. With the news that my dad had prostate cancer in the bones still fresh in our minds, John 14:25-27 is especially meaningful: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." God truly is the greatest Counselor with the most encouraging words. As parents of very young children, there are times when it is quite clear peace must come from elsewhere! While our little treasures certainly keep us hopping, they are also the main source of most of our laughter these days. James' little "cock a doodle doo" on cue at the top of his lungs is priceless and worth hearing if you happen to see us next year. He's quite generous with this soft little kisses if he's not in his shy mode, so you might get one out of him. The girls are my little helpers (or "Happy Slaves" as my mom called my sister and me") and are growing up soooo fast! Caroline is a mature little reader bringing home 3 books a week and writing Chinese characters far harder than any I have ever written. Jacqueline does a bit of homeschooling while Caroline is doing her homework and can do things I've never taught her. Makes for a happy surprise! I may be homeschooling fulltime next year for a variety of reasons (one being that I need to teach to renew my credential) while in the U.S., so I could use much prayer if that is the route God would have me go. We love the God who wants us to "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May those who love you be secure. May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels." (Ps 122:6-7). Not just peace in Jesusalem's walls, but in your home, our home and every home on this planet. Peace from worry, peace from stress, peace from the past that haunts, peace from the daunting future, peace from the wearying pace, peace from the meaningless disagreements, peace that comes from knowing and trusting the Prince of Peace with everything that we have and are and will be. May "the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus!" (Phil. 4:7) Much, much love and thanks to all of your dear friends and family, Christy, Jim, Caroline, Jacqueline and James |
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