Monumental Events

Some days go by without incident - nothing for us to take notice. But yesterday was not one of those days.  In March 2008 I will have lived in Belgium for 10 years. I arrived 10 years ago to stay for a short 6 month term before returning for, what I thought would be, a lifetime in Southeast Asia.  Alas, I am still here, and love it more now than ever.

Each year I must renew my missionary "visa" - the residency permit that allows me to live here.  That's not a big problem, but typically after 5 years, you can apply for long-term residency.  However, some of you remember 2002 and the events that took place as I was delayed almost 2 years to validate my residency, was asked to leave the country in 5 days, and went through a year long legal process to stay in the country.  What a mess.

Today is a new day, as yesterday I was granted a FIVE-YEAR RESIDENCY PERMIT (see photo).  Monumental Event.  Several of the missionary staff were also granted these recently, but I wanted to take the time to rejoice in what God has done.  I don't take this lightly and see it as another confirmation of God's hand upon my life, offering provisions each day to do His work.

Thanks for your prayers as I continue on for another five years.