It was December 2009—many of you I am sure remember. Cindy was in rehab in Denver, Colorado still struggling with her life threatening illness. In fact, it would just be another 6 weeks when the doctors told us she had no chance of survival. Needless to say, we are so grateful for what God has done and the miracle healing process continues to this day.
As I was preparing to write this letter I was reflecting back upon all the wonderful Christmas seasons my family has enjoyed together. All of them, yes, including that memorable hospital room experience, were filled with joy. In fact, joy inexpressible. The reason is simple really—it is because we know what this season is all about and we are so filled with love and appreciation for our glorious Savior. Only this kind of joy can overcome fear and anxiety.
In a few short days I will be flying back to Colorado Springs from our home here in Temecula to be with Cindy and Kristen’s family for Christmas. We are looking forward to another season filled with joy as we celebrate with Mark, Kristen, and our three grandchildren, Hunter, Colton and Kyleigh. We are also looking forward to connecting via FaceTime with Jason, Kim, Parker, Hayden and Brook who will be celebrating in St Charles, IL.
Today, it has been seven years since the Lord brought us through those serious and life-changing experiences with Cindy’s illness. As I look back I can honestly say that the depth of ministry that has happened since then has been amazing. These past seven years have seen countless thousands of people impacted. Many men’s lives transformed, marriages saved and leaders developed.
Cindy and I want you to know two things as we bring this incredible year to a close. First, we are so grateful for your prayers, financial support and belief in our ministry. Without you none of this would have been possible and of course we know that our Lord is at the center of it all.
Next, we want to encourage you to look at this Christmas season with joy no matter your circumstances. I’ll be honest—it took some effort on our family’s part to find joy during our trying time in 2010. But, with God’s help, we found it by pressing into Him. Perhaps this season finds you in a trying situation. Please know that our Lord will never forsake you—He has your back no matter the difficulty.
Set your sites on the promise—the promise that says God always takes the trials in life and turns them around to use them for His good. Dear one please hear me, the depth of ministry we have experienced since our trial is no coincidence—God used that time to break, mold and conform us into new people. People who better understand that we do not control much of anything. He does. I don’t know about you, but for me that is where true peace, and yes, joy, comes from. The knowledge that He is in control—not me.
During this season we pray that the peace and joy of the Lord attend to you and your family in ways you have never experienced.
Finally, a reminder that this is our last letter to you for 2017. As you know, ministries like ours depend very much on strong year-end giving to get through this lean time. As you are considering your final gifts for this year would you please pray about helping On Target Ministry to continue what God has been doing?
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For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace...(and JOY)
Isa 9:6-7
May you experience a blessed and Merry Christmas,
Vince & Cindy