Christmas 2005 Newsletter
“For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His Name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon His kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever.
The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.” Isaiah 9:6 and 7
December, 2005
Warm greetings, dear Friends and Prayer Partners, from snowy, upper New York State ,
Our heartfelt appreciation to you who uphold us in prayer and support! We close in on another year … over forty years of service in the Lord’s work – how faithful He has been!
As Christmas nears, we are reminded of last year when Barb’s mother entered triumphant- ly into the presence of her Lord the day after Christmas. We miss her very much, as she was a great supporter of us personally, as well as of our ministry to law enforcement.
We have had some radical changes in our lifestyle! The Lord’s definite leading touched Barb to help the Christian day school across the street by filling the teaching position for 3rd and 4th grades – a gap made by a retiring teacher – until they can get someone. It has not been easy for her and she has certainly been “stretched” – but she is totally dedicated and enjoying the 9 precious little ones she has!
Ray continues travel alone, for the most part, covering many miles to Maine , New Jersey , Pennsylvania , and throughout New York State . Barb did make the trip in October for the annual COP’S Parents’ Retreat in Missouri , down to Little Rock , Arkansas , then over to North Carolina for meetings the next weekend … 4000 miles!
Though the scheduled meetings have slacked off during the holidays, continued one-on-one opportunities keep us busy. We do ask that you will continue to pray:
- For our personal spiritual revival, and for refreshed spirits …
- For continued wisdom and strength for Barb as she fills this very demanding position …
- For our children and grandchildren to desire to be conformed to Christ’s likeness
- For continued open doors in law enforcement, and the salvation and spiritual growth of many police officers …
- For fresh opportunities to present the ministry needs in churches
May you continue to know and enjoy God’s wonderful blessings now, and throughout the coming year, until He comes!
In His matchless Grace and Love,
Barb and Ray
200 US Rte 9, Schroon Lake, NY 12870 www.onlyoneson.org (518) 532-9049
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The article below is from a bookmark that we received … very interesting and thought-provoking for this busy, commercialized-season of the year, when so many have so little time to think about why we do celebrate …
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He Is The Reason
He Is Jesus
His arrival was eagerly anticipated,
but not just by children.
He came on Christmas day,
but not down the chimney.
He worked in a woodshop,
but not making toys.
He had a beard,
but it was not white.
He had some helpers,
but they were not elves.
He did a miracle,
but not on 34th Street.
He rode into town,
but not on a sleigh.
He carried a lot of weight,
but He was not heavy.
He hung on a tree,
but not as an ornament.
He disappeared into the clouds,
but not to the North Pole.
His return is eagerly anticipated,
but not predictable.
So every year at Christmas time, let all traditions become a sign to point us back so long ago when God came to earth for the world to know. He did not want to be a stranger, so as a gift specially wrapped in swaddling clothes, He lay in a manger.
Steven E. Chaney
Only One Son - In the Line of Duty 