Spring is here in Switzerland!

It is hard to say for sure, but I think that the sun and warmer weather is just as beautiful here as the snow and frigid temperatures were!  After living my entire life in Michigan, I have faith that we may have blizzard here tomorrow so I am loving this air while I have the chance.

Since Jake's past two additions to our blog our anticipation for outreach has been growing.  We complete our lecture phase and leave for China two weeks from today!  During our 24/7 prayer week, the previous DTS students returned from outreach and the living situation at the base became quite cramped. We heard many stories as they had ministered to Uganda, Cambodia, and Egypt.  We spoke mostly with the Cambodia team and it sounds like we should anticipate falling in love with the Asian culture.  At the moment, I do not have much new information as to what we will be "doing" in our outreach locations.  I am personally excited for the opportunity I have been given to be a supportive leader for this team.  Two of the aspects I look forward to most is being able to grow in my menu planning/cooking skills and leading "one-on-one"s with the two girls on my team!  You won't be surprised that Jake has been appointed as our team's "finance man". 

Markus Steffan, Lausanne's base leader, spoke to us last week.  He challenged us with new ways to see our purposes and callings.  The major point that stuck with me is how the majority of the world's population does not have the opportunity to even decide what to do with their lives. This confirmed in me that my vocation is important, but not God's primary concern in regards to me; my first calling is to be in relationship with Him.  

Please be encouraged that your prayers and support are truly making a difference in our hearts!  Because of the love you have generously given us, Jake and I have had the almost unheard of chance to literally spend every single day together for the past 2 1/2 months... with 3 1/2 more to go.  God has been faithful... He has a way for us... and we are committed to continue in our search for how we can co-create with Him to bring as much heaven to earth as possible! 

Be blessed this week!

Lauren and Jake