2025

God can do the most with us right where we find ourselves. Back in Zaire, Grandpa Paul found himself entrusted with running the printing press.

As seen in Jesus’ parables in Matthew Chapter 25, when he returns, he will exercise justice and reward each one according to what they deserve. 

Purpose and belonging are two important aspects of a life lived to the full. At our core we belong to God and our purpose is to worship, glorify, and enjoy him. We can do that in whatever place we find ourselves and sometimes are privileged enough to offer that to our fellow human beings. 
Grandpa Paul recalls the first farm wedding. The celebration is a beautiful picture of giving and receiving gifts from the community. And with far too many people preparing for the celebration in the old farmhouse, the necessity and centrality of love could not be more apparent.

Celebrations have a central place in the kingdom of God. From the prodigal son to stories of banquet feasts, Jesus helped people see how our God is indeed a God who loves a good party.

Grandpa Paul recalls the first farm wedding. The celebration is a beautiful picture of giving and receiving gifts from the community. And with far too many people preparing for the celebration in the old farmhouse, the necessity and centrality of love could not be more apparent.

In the conversation of the Song of Songs the man says, “Your cheeks are lovely with ornaments, your neck with strings of jewels.” Immediately after, the others say, “We will make for you ornaments of gold, studded with silver.” The community plays an important role in a developing romantic relationship. One of the ways it contributes is by clothing the bride in clothes that enhance her beauty.

In this story, Grandpa Paul recalls how his daughter Debbie was clothed for her wedding day.

Relationships are about more than just knowing another person. With them comes the invitation to be known. Paul says, in Galatians 4:9, “You have come to know God, or rather, be known by God.” This is true especially in marriage.

In this story, Grandpa Paul recalls how he and his daughter Debbie got to know and be known by his future son-in-law Alan.

God provides for us. Often that provision comes from those he has surrounded us with—our neighbors. 

God provides for us. Sometimes that provision comes from what he has surrounded us with.

In this story, Grandpa Paul recalls the first winter his family spent in the old farmhouse, and how God was providing firewood to keep them warm.

In Genesis God says, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth.” Procreation is part of God’s good design and is blessed by him. Won’t he be with us in what he created and blessed? In this story, Grandpa Paul recalls the birth of his twins, and their less than 18 hour hospital stay.

Jesus went to prepare a place for us and will return so we might be at home with him.

Growing up, Grandpa Paul did not have a home that could be easily identified. But thanks to God, he was able to provide a home for his family to live life in when they returned from Rethy.