First Day of the New Year...

Happy New Year! I have got to get use to ending with a seven when I write or type out the date. (here I'll give it a go... 2007) Hope everyone enjoyed bring in the new year! I experienced my first Czech New Year's Eve gathering. I had a lot of fun seeing many familiar Czech faces. Most of these familiar faces were ones I had seen at previous English Camps(2000-03 & 06). It is great to glance back and think about how God has brought me to this point. I could not be here without so many people praying, encouraging and giving of their resources--I thank God for each and everyone who is part of my journey!

One quick observation--I had to answer the same question several times last night. It seemed like many of the Czechs wanted to know what I had gotten for Christmas. I rattled off a few small items (fruit tea--very popular in cold weather climate areas; a pair socks, a Czech christmas cd, bedding, and driving map book of the country. I told each and every person that asked though that my best Christmas present came early--it was from God. Can you guess what it was--that's right that after 5 years and in God's perfect timing--He opened the way for me to come live among the Czech people. That is easily the best gift I received. Now I must make the most of the gift God has given me. I will do that by focusing on 4 key objectives...

1. Learning the Czech language--no matter how difficult people tell me it is I am asking God for His wisdom and power so that I can learn to communicate effectively in Czech.
   
2. Learning the Czech culture--I have many questions to ask and want a diverse group of Czechs to help teach me about their world/culture.
3. Continue to Build a Relationship Network--I love spending time and getting to know Czech people of all ages.
4. Continue to Pray & Seek God's face so that He reveals the ministry He has for me. Nothing is more important than my ongoing relationship with God.
   

Those are the main areas I will center 2007 around and please know I appreciate your prayers for me involving these 4 major objectives. Hope that 2007 brings you all to a closer knowledge and walk with our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ!
Take Care until next time!
Blessings,
Colleen