Our Firstborn in Jerusalem

Today is the day that our oldest son Mike leaves for his semester studying at The Master's College Israel Bible Exchange (IBEX) program in Jerusalem. We'll be taking him to Omaha to board a flight. He should arrive there sometime tomorrow morning (our time) after a long flight, along with about 40 other TMC students. I think this will be a life-changing three and a half months for Mike, and I know he's very excited about the whole adventure. I can't wait to hear what he has to say about the experience and how God uses it to shape him and further prepare him for whatever future ministry waits him.

To keep all of us back here up to date on what's going on, Mike has set up a blog, A Gentile in Jerusalem, that he intends to update frequently with pictures and thoughts. Be sure to visit and maybe even give some words of encouragement and wisdom. And of course, your prayers for Mike's well-being and safe return are appreciated as well. You can also keep up to date with the whole IBEX experience at their website. You'll no doubt see some pictures and videos of Mike there as well.

A few people have asked us if we are fearful as Mike heads for the middle east. Actually, neither Tammie nor I really are. With Mike having been living in the LA area for the past two years attending TMC, and making car trips half way across the continent between here and there, I think traveling to and living in Jerusalem will be at least as safe. And of course, we're trusting in the God who is calling Mike to pursue ministry to providentially oversee the whole adventure. So in reality we're excited with Mike about this once in a lifetime opportunity. And for my part, maybe even a bit envious.

So Yahweh-speed, Micha-el as you travel to the land of Zion and explore more deeply the person and work of Yeshua the Messiah.