August 31, 2002 

Dear Partners, 

Three of the ladies that have been attending our Thursday Bible Study since its inception have husbands who professed to be atheists. We have been praying for over a year that God would touch their hearts. On August 4, one of them attended the Sunday morning worship meeting and on August 18, another one did. What a thrill to have them present and showing an interest! 

A couple of months ago, Rafael and Tonya, a young German couple with two children moved in across the street. She is expecting a third child. Neither of them speaks French. He speaks very little English and Tonya even less. Judy and I do not speak German. We have asked God to enable us to communicate His love and the good news of Jesus Christ to them. From time to time, we have had opportunities to help them in small ways. Each contact has driven us to pray more intensely that God would give a breakthrough. 

Last night Rafael came to the door and in broken English said, "We have problem." He then managed to explain that his wife was to go to the hospital to deliver their child on September 4th. They had no one to keep the other children. We were able to tell him with joy that they did not have a problem, we would take care of the children. He then stayed around for an hour. Together we leafed through a large "Creative Memories" photo album of Emmanuel Baptist Church that some of the Church ladies prepared for us to bring to France. It was a great opportunity to "show and tell" about the Lord. God builds the best bridges. 

These are just a couple of examples of how the Lord has been at work around and through us. He wants us to pray. As His Word clearly and repeatedly states, He gives in answer to prayer. You can participate directly in the advancement of the Kingdom of God by praying! 

We enjoyed having Lydia, our youngest daughter with us for the summer. She is now back studying at Moody. It is always hard to see our children leave, but we delight in their love for the Lord and ask Him to continue to mold them and make them fruitful. 

Your partnership with us is a cause for much thanksgiving. Thank you for your prayers. Thank you for your giving. Thank you for being faithful where you are. Lift up your eyes and look on the harvest. God will enable you to be fruitful! May He bless you. 

Gratefully in France for Christ, 

John and Judy