November 26, 2012

Merry Christmas!

            Despite the gaudy light displays, the smarmy TV specials, and the unchanging music, we love Christmas.  For the most part people are kinder and the message of all of the above mentioned traditional annoyances is one of love and hope.  This makes sense because Christmas is a celebration of love.  The Eternal God entered time; the Infinite One became a tiny baby; and the immutable Creator chose to grow from a baby to a man.  He did all of this because of His love.  He wants us to be close to Him.  It is no wonder that we see kindness at Christmas.

            During this last year, changes have abounded for the Woods.  We began the year with Michael starting his second semester at Covenant College in Georgia, Robin assisting a Kindergarten class and Vince selling paint in Florida, Britney teaching high school and Patrick assisting a third grade class in Colorado.  But much of this changed.

            In April, Robin and Vince moved to Lander, Wyoming, as Vince was invited to be the Interim Pastor of Covenant Presbyterian Church—Britney’s home church.  A part of the agreement for Vince’s position was that he not apply to become the full-time pastor.  This meant that he continued to search for another permanent call.  Some dear friends suggested that Vince apply to a church in York, Pennsylvania.  Lo, and behold, Vince was called to be the Pastor of Providence Presbyterian Church.  We will move during the first week of December. 

            We are sad to leave Covenant Presbyterian Church.  We experienced the healing power of love from this kind group of Christians.  Even so, we are thrilled to be a part of Providence.  In many ways, Providence is the church we have sought to build for the last nineteen years.  She has planted two churches in the last ten years.  She has a passion for missions and outreach.  She has elders and a staff that is truly longing to make disciples, not just cultural Christians.  We know that we will have to rely on God’s Spirit, and that is the most exciting part of the whole move.

            During the last year, Robin found a position decorating cakes at a local grocery store.  In addition, she has returned to her easel.  She began studying a new watercolor technique.  She wants to explore more opportunities with her art.  Her first projects are African animals photographed during our two trips to Africa.  Hopefully, we can find some way to market her art work. 

            Michael has about three semesters left to complete his degree in Biology with a minor in Spanish.  His experience at Covenant has stretched him in beautiful ways.  He is gaining a clearer perspective on who he is and how God intends to use him in impacting this world.  Please continue to pray for Michael as he makes decisions about his future.

            Patrick taught at the elementary school until around April.  In June, he went to work for a company that blended a blues/oldies/big band musical group with electronic installations.  It was a very eclectic and great experience for him.  He is now trying to establish himself as a piano/guitar teacher while developing Log Cabin Gaming.  At the same time, he finally started his book on music theory.  Britney continues to teach at James Irwin High School.  She loves teaching.  They continue to find ways to be more involved in their church, Westminster Presbyterian.  Please ask God to guide Patrick and Britney into how they might best use their gifts for God and His kingdom.

The future is filled with hope, because of God’s love.  We would be grateful if you would pray for us.

In Jesus’ love,

Vince, Robin and Michael