Leaving the Philippines

We are leaving for Myanmar and most likely not be online for 12 days. In the photo posted the tower is of particular interest to history enthusiasts. Built in 1620 as the Bell Tower for the still standing adjacent Church, this tower was also used as a watch tower.
'a raiding Moslem Pirates would come up the coast of Negros island and snatch away the women, children and young men. Hence the word DAGET
To snatch, was given as a name for the city of Dumaguete thereafter.

The people are gentle and capture not only ones heart but imagination as well.

The rich coral sanctuaries is a haven for SNORKLING and Diving, and treasures from the sea are as of the culture.,
The last full day there, I taught at a grade school in the mountains. The grade 6 children are singing along with me from Psalms 19: 7-11

Gratefully yours, Shonda

24 hour getaway

We so much enjoy a brief getaway to just look at each other And take time to play. And in 72 hours we shall be onward.so much work lays ahead of us. We are very happy in the Philippines! Jim

Garden Joy

Morning holds a special joy for me and that is walking through the garden .
There are so many varieties of beautiful flowers and I do pause to admire, and occasionally catch a butterfly lifting off.
So many deep gorgeous colors to enjoy, it makes me look to my palate
And appreciate.
But I realize now that I love to linger.

Lunch Trumped By Spiritual Hunger

A few days ago while having lunch at a popular cafe,the owner,whom we have known for years,pulled up a chair to our table. After small talk, Jim asked how his elderly parents were?
" Not well at all " was the response to which Jim offered to pray for them. He appreciated the prayer on their account and went on to ask us about our faith.
Telling us he is aware of spiritual darkness and is searching for the True Light. We shared frankly with him Scripture and he listened.After nearly 40 minutes he secured himself with a handshake and a smile. Please pray for our Swiss friend.

3rd post

So this is not without challenges but enjoyable, as I learn blogging. My friend , Norl, the Engineer walked me through it. Like any adversity we must face, adapt to it like bamboo, and bend not break. This is the character of the Filipino. Amen

Pre Nepal

In a matter of days, we will be in the Philippines organizing from there our first time to work in Nepal. I have come to understand after 25 years as a missionary, that we have acquired, The Magnificent Burden. Let me explain what I mean, in Galatians, we are encouraged to bear one another's burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ. The church in southeast Asia has many noble burdens. In light of this, we look forward to working with our brothers and sisters serving the church, and serving the Lord in Nepal