Virtual Vision
We had a wonderful experience co-leading a group for the Vision Together conference. The three students (pictured below) who were most committed to attending were Samuel (Nigeria), Beulah (Nigeria), and Leticia (Brazil). We had a wonderful talk about faith and science.
Samuel had this to say:
“One topic that stands out of all is the discussion of how science and Christianity work together explain the creation of God. Before this conference, I never really agreed with the fact due to different opinions people shared with me about that topic. So, this conference has opened my eyes to another view of how science and Christianity work together.”
You can watch the Faith and Science presentation here:
From Art to Christ
Zack and I (Naomi) were on the planning team for Multi-Nations Track seminars. The breakout rooms used a new ministry tool called Conversation Art Cards to facilitate gospel centered discussions by looking at famous works of art. Zack and I both shared the gospel with students. As we were discussing the topic of suffering, I was especially encouraged by a student from Congo who told the group that Covid had brought him a bigger community through Bridges.
You can see the art work and a link to the ministry tool on the Conversation Art Cards website.
Losing a Friend
Thus far, 2021 has been a very difficult year for us. On January 1st, our friend and fellow Bridges Staff member, Mike Holberg was hospitalized for Covid. It was a very long two month battle, as we prayed daily for Mike’s healing. Mike was welcomed into the Lord’s presence on February 20. Zack worked closely with him on the Bridges Operations Team for years. Mike will be greatly missed. Please pray for Jenny and the kids (14, 14 and 10 years old). Pray also for Mike’s younger brother, Jeremy, and their parents who have also been deeply affected by Mike’s loss.
Winter Disaster
In addition to our grief, we had a huge amount of stress during the Winter Storm Disaster that hit Texas in mid-February.
Zack did a great job caring for us and literally fighting for our survival. We praise God that our house did not lose power or water during the coldest days of the storm. Ten years ago, God directed us to purchase a home that––unbeknownst to us––was on a “critical infrastructure” power grid. We were able to help others in the neighborhood and be a safe haven to Zack’s mom and sister, as their home lost power. It probably saved their life, as an elderly man in their neighborhood froze to death in his home.
Just when we thought we were done with the storm stress, Zack discovered that the carpet in our bedroom was soaked. It turns out that the dramatic drop in temperatures from the storm caused a massive foundation shift which cracked the caulk in out shower and led to leaking water through the wall.
We really need your prayers for us personally. With all the daily stress of Covid life, and now all of this, we are weary.
Upcoming
Naomi recently started an International Women’s Zoom Bible Study. Please pray for our friend, Jenny (Taiwan), to come to know the Lord through the study.
Praise Reports
•We had a wonderful time during the virtual Vision conference
•Samuel, Beulah, and Leticia all grew in their faith during Vision
•We have a very real hope in Christ. We will see Mike again!
•Our home had power and water through the most life threatening days of the storm.
Prayer Requests
•Peace and comfort for Mike’s family (widow Jenny, 3 kids, brother Jeremy, parents) and all of us Bridges staff who knew him personally.
•God would provide (through insurance or other assistance programs) the cost of the shower replacement.
•We would fix our eyes on Jesus. He would strengthen us in our weariness.