Background:
It all began in 2004 when we were visiting Shanghai without the kids. Caught up in the frenzy of the moment (or was it during a foot massage?), we could sense the energy that was emanating from this "new" Shanghai.
Anson had a sense that God was calling us back to Shanghai in some way. Christine didn't think so. But she was sure that if God was calling us, He would make it clear with a specific reason to go. We prayed over the idea for a year.
During this time, unbeknownst to us, Christine's parents were approached by their contacts in China looking for ways to improve health care delivery to the villages. When the idea of a mobile medical unit emerged, it became clear that this was the "specific reason" for which Christine had been praying.
We began taking steps toward that possibilty and things started falling into place. Anson was approved for a sabbatical, we were offered housing by Christine's uncle, our visas were granted, programs for our kids were provided, our house and cars are being cared for and used by friends and missionaries, and we are left with little doubt that God had everything planned out for us so perfectly.
The kids also took some convincing. It isn't easy leaving for a few months away from your friends and toys. However, God has been working in their hearts to a point where they are now very excited about going.
Please pray for our journey. Safety, health, efficiency, patience, relationship building, favor with those in positions to make decisions, and the ability to make a difference.
It all began in 2004 when we were visiting Shanghai without the kids. Caught up in the frenzy of the moment (or was it during a foot massage?), we could sense the energy that was emanating from this "new" Shanghai.
Anson had a sense that God was calling us back to Shanghai in some way. Christine didn't think so. But she was sure that if God was calling us, He would make it clear with a specific reason to go. We prayed over the idea for a year.
During this time, unbeknownst to us, Christine's parents were approached by their contacts in China looking for ways to improve health care delivery to the villages. When the idea of a mobile medical unit emerged, it became clear that this was the "specific reason" for which Christine had been praying.
We began taking steps toward that possibilty and things started falling into place. Anson was approved for a sabbatical, we were offered housing by Christine's uncle, our visas were granted, programs for our kids were provided, our house and cars are being cared for and used by friends and missionaries, and we are left with little doubt that God had everything planned out for us so perfectly.
The kids also took some convincing. It isn't easy leaving for a few months away from your friends and toys. However, God has been working in their hearts to a point where they are now very excited about going.
Please pray for our journey. Safety, health, efficiency, patience, relationship building, favor with those in positions to make decisions, and the ability to make a difference.
