December 3, 2005

Dear Family and Friends,

As Alison and I wrap up our time here in Indonesia we are realizing how much the Lrd has blessed us in so many ways. I have been treasuring my last moments here and the wonderful friends Gd has given me. Over the last few weeks I have grown even closer with a university student named D. whom I went home with to visit her family a couple of weeks ago. She is still an unbeliever, but keep pr.ying that Gd will soften her heart and that she will understand the gift He has given her with His sacrifice on the cross. Also pr.y for all of our friends at the Center who we have shared Truth with- Gd has given us so many opportunities to share our faith as we prepare to leave and enjoy all of the "this is the last time we'll hang out" moments.

Some things we've done recently:

- We have a friend who plays guitar and sings in a band, so we went to his concert recently. It was so cool to hear so many different genres of music--punk, ska, rock, reggae, techno, and hip-hop--at one concert. Music is huge in this culture (it really speaks to the hearts of Indonesians), so we're pr.ying that Gd will show us as believers how to use music to share the g.spel.

- Our friend E. is a teacher and she invited us to come to her house for a farewell party. I've been able to spend a lot more time with her recently. She is very dedicated to her faith, but she's working so hard to be "good enough" that she can't see the free gift of grace that Gd wants to give her. Pr.y that her painful past will spur her on to receive the unconditional love of our S.vior.

- In an attempt to enjoy the beauty of Indonesia for the last time, Alison and I have gone hiking to a beautiful waterfall with some friends, and then we just returned from a weekend at a beach 6 hours away. We were really grateful to see the ocean at least once before we left the island! Praise Gd for His majesty and how He has revealed Himself in nature.

- Our friends at the Center had a farewell party for us and it was great to relive some funny memories and hear so many encouraging words. Pr.y for the work that Gd is continuing to do here and for our team of believers who remain. We know Gd's word does not return void and He will continue to grow the seeds that have been planted.

There are so many more things I want to share, but a little email can't contain it all (and I'm sure you're all busy), so I'll just have to wait to tell you in person. I'm excited to hear what the Lrd has been doing in all of your lives since I've been gone. Please be patient with me as I re-adjust to American culture and try to leave behind some great people. I apologize in advance for you all having to hear for the hundredth time, "Yeah, that reminds me of a time when I was in Indonesia..." :) Anyway... I appreciate your pr.yers and encouragement and can't wait to see you all

Nicole