14 For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. 15 The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” 16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. 17 Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.
We are back in Mexico after a month away in Canada of taking courses, attending meetings, and visiting Rocky Mountain Alliance church in Alberta. And, of course, we had some much cherished time with family. I must admit that each time we return to Canada a little part of me tenses up. I wrestle with the fear of liking Canada too much... What if I won't want to go back? But, God is faithful, and each time, the day before it is time to pack up and head back, there really is a longing for home. And I can honestly say right now that home IS in Mexico. And then again, by the grace of God, we all return with even the children not sulking, but having peace and contentment to pick up where we left our lives the month before.
It was so amazing that while we were at this intensive course in Edmonton, despite the fact that it was a lot of work, we left feeling encouraged and filled. We were not expecting the fellowship we experienced there. It was as if everyone was a distant relative and we could move right into talking about life and caring for one another. It was so amazing that on the last day I repeatedly found myself tearing up knowing that this intense time of caring and fellowship was ending. But, this was also a great reminder to me that God knows our deepest longings and He knows best how to fill them. Who would of thought that stepping out of our work situation and taking a leadership course would be such a powerful blessing on so many fronts.
The course was called Leadership Matters and we would strongly endorse it for anyone who thinks they have room to grow in their leadership skills with a Christian perspective.
I, Claudia, was also able to spend time with a co-worker, Susan, and one of our bosses, Murray. It was a great time to hear others dreams for our field and be reminded that we are able to draw on each other for ideas and confirmation.
Yesterday I heard Sam cuddling with Moka and saying "Oh Moka I would live anywhere as long as you’re there". Later when talking to my parents on Skype, they asked him if he wished he was back in Canada or in Mexico. Do you know what his response was? I am glad to be back home in Mexico. It feels like home. Thank you Lord for answered prayers. Andrew and I were a bit concerned with Sam struggling once we returned from our stay in Canada. When we came back last January Sam was struggling with depression and missing family. We have had so many people join us in praying for Sam and I think it was great confirmation to hear his answer to my parents.
While we were in Calgary we had some time to take a family photo one with my sisters and their families. It has been a long time since we have all been under one roof =)
All the cousins together! We had a pretend Christmas time and shared gifts we saved from last Christmas. It was fun.
This one makes me laugh so hard because when I see my twin (front right) I see my grandmother when she was still with us. Oh how fast time goes!!!
Lynn, Sandra and me. You know I think we might finally be evolving on our relationships we had a amazing visit with NO DRAMA!!! What more could a sister ask for?
Debbie Pearce took these fox us. She is a great friend!
