January 26, 2011  – Wednesday – 8:59am (Eastern U.S. Time) Cocoa, FL -Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

I am so pleased to hear that one of the Presidential candidates has elected to drop out of the race in Haiti.  The #2 Candidate, Jude Celestin, dropped out, thereby, possibly averting a very, very explosive situation.  There are many, many details that we do not know, however, this appears to be a good move.  Now, the run-off between Mirlande and Michel may take place soon.  We just pray for this to take place soon and peacefully.  Of course, the situation with Jean Claude Duvalier and Aristide is ever present and could cause things to get “crazy” quickly.  We simply pray.

The news regarding the Cholera death toll stabilizing in Haiti is encouraging.  However, the report is tinged with doubt, as the dreadful disease may simply be taking a “breather” and could re-ignite anytime.  We pray that is not the case.  All over the country, health workers / missionaries are working tirelessly and courageously to fight this deadly disease.  We pray for them and we pray to get back to Haiti as soon as we possibly can.  

Of course, we are patiently (and very thankfully) awaiting the completion of the installation of the long-range fuel tanks in Ti Burik, our precious mission aircraft.  The first set of tanks for the right wing have been completed and shipped and being installed as I write this report. The other set of tanks should be completed by next Monday.  Just another word on these tanks; this incredible modification will increase or capability dramatically, giving so many good options to each mission.  My heart is just overflowing with gratitude for this gift.  A bit later, I’ll send some shots of our instrument panel.  Now, that is a whole other story.

Last night, we had another terrible storm blow through here.  We had terrible winds that blew things everywhere, but we did not sustain any damage, thank God.  You know, life deals out storms for all of us.  There are many kinds of storms.  One thing that Cindy and I have been learning is to “hold steady” in the storm. Many times, simply calling upon Jesus brings great peace in the midst of the storm.  Lately, since this amazing notoriety (The Extreme Gift), our life has been jam packed with calls, invitations, opportunities, challenges.  Throughout the day, I will just separate myself from the “whirl” of activity and spend a few moments with the Lord and simply breathe His Name.  Ahh, the peace of God comes.  

Late last night, I went to the Orlando International Airport and retrieved a very tired missionary, Barb in the Blue Dress.  She just returned from a whirlwind trip to Africa deploying water purifiers.  I brought her to my daugther, Cherie’s home in the middle of the night.  Good to have Barb back with us for just a little bit.  She’ll be off on another “Adventure” in a day or two.  We praise God for such brave and capable servants.

Heard from another dear friends via a beautiful letter, Jay Clark.  He was the principal of elementary school attended by my older children years ago.  His letter was inspiring and encouraging.  He included this little card that I thought to pass on to you –

GOING WITH GOD

TODAY I HAVE

     God’s grace to keep me,

     God’s wisdom to guide me,

     God’s strength to sustain me,

     God’s eye to watch over me,

     God’s ear to hear me,

     God’s hand to hold me,

     God’s word to instruct me,

     God’s angels to minister to me

May you take these words into this day.  This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.  We love you and are so thankful that you have come into our life to stand and pray with us as we march forward into a hurting and thirsty world.  God Bless!

Air Mobile Joe

PS – JUST HAD TO SAY THANK YOU AGAIN!!