Changes, Schmanges

Well, so much for a big change of circumstances – but it’s okay. I thought I might be able to get off the tug boats and start work in Virginia with LISCR, the Liberian International Shipping and Corporate Registry as a technical manager. I probably could push it, but the tugs pay very well and allow me to have much time off. I should have my Jeep paid off by the end of May and can then reevaluate my helter skelter life path again.

My hitch on the tug boat ended on Election Day, and I was able to spend the next couple days with my buddy Paul and his wife in the Bay Area. We visited some of his co-workers and friends on the night of the election, and wow, did I feel like a minority when the results came in! God remains sovereign, and I remained quiet. Paul and I were able to do some hiking, which was really fabulous after the weeks cooped up on the boat. Then we discovered some very interesting things about “Knot” ships – how the Spirit is technically Adria Class, and the Spirit of Grace was technically Alamosa Class. We learned the original name of the Spirit, also, and it’s not what we’ve been told all along! Paul and Brianne loaned me a copy of “Beautiful Boy,” which is an emotionally tough read, but informative, and could perhaps motivate some to pray, as it did me.

I made it home without trouble, and collected my cats from mom and dad before zipping across the mountains. Craig and I had lunch together, and it was great to hang out even if only for a bit. Isaac is growing so fast! There were hunks of snow plowed to the side of the road when I drove up the hill, prompting riotous laughter on my part and terrifying my cats – which made me laugh even harder! They brought a dead mouse to bed the next morning, so I guess we’re even.

This last weekend I drove to Idaho to visit Joel and Dess. I was presented with the incredible opportunity and true honor of preaching the Sunday message at the three churches Dess’ dad normally pastors. He is taking a short break, and gave his approval for me to present the message. What I really want my helter skelter life path to settle on is preaching full time, and God will bring it to pass in His time. Until then, I’ll jump at every chance to preach here or there or anywhere!

Spending time with Joel and Dess was really great, also. I feel like we really grew quite a bit closer this weekend – and I pet a deer on the face while I fed her a brownie! Now that’s good times!

God is good, He’s so good, He’s so good to – Jake!