Wow! Can it seriously be one year ago that we were heading to Lyon for our vision trip? At times it's amazing that time has flown by so fast, and at other times it seems as if time is standing still.
Our vision trip was designed to provide an opportunity to get to know the Lyon City Team, the ICCL church family and the city of Lyon. It was important to have a taste of what it will be like to live in France as a family. Although the first 24 hours seemed overwhelming for the kids, they soon were won over by the ICCL church family. We were so thankful for the timing of the church weekend retreat at the start of our time in Lyon. God knew it would be important for the kids to connect with others. After 10 days in Lyon, all of our family felt a peace about moving to Lyon and working with the Lyon City Team and the International Christian Community of Lyon.
Now, 12 months later, we continue soaking up all that God is teaching us, and we are so grateful for His leading, confirmation and strength. This scripture passage in Colossians says it so well:
As you learn more and more how God works, you will learn how to do your work. We pray that you'll have the strength to stick it out over the long haul—not the grim strength of gritting your teeth but the glory-strength God gives. It is strength that endures the unendurable and spills over into joy, thanking the Father who makes us strong enough to take part in everything bright and beautiful that He has for us.
Colossians 1:10-12 (MSG)
Since we miss Lyon and long for the day when we will begin our ministry there, we thought some pictures could give you a glimpse into the heart of Lyon and the Lyonnais people.
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| At the Lyon airport, having just arrived after many hours traveling from Chicago. Side note: All 4 kids are now TALLER than Chris! |
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| So thankful the kids connected so quickly to the families from the ICCL at the retreat our first weekend in Lyon. |
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| A couple filling up their water jugs along the street. |
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| One of the many Catholic churches now boarded up and closed. |
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| Many Christians were tied to the post at the far edge of the ring and beat to death because of their faith while many watched. |
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| With only 0.2% Evangelicals in Lyon, many churches are mostly enjoyed as tourist stops. |
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| Yikes! We got off the bus one stop too late! Had a nice (long) walk back to the DiGenas' house! |
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| Street view in Lyon |
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| Our trip to McDonald's with "Refuge" - the young adult group from the ICCL |
Please pray with us that God will provide a way for us to return to Lyon yet this year. May God's Spirit lead many to partner with us in this ministry! If God is challenging you to give to His work in Lyon, we'd love to hear from you.
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