In C.S. Lewis’ ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe,’ (which our kids view on DVD frequently), it is “always winter but never Christmas” …a profound way of describing a world without hope. Much of the world is without Christ and therefore without the hope He offers. As I prepare this news letter, tomorrow is Easter, we rejoice in His Resurrection. The pain, despair, the crying out we experience here has been overcome in His promise of eternal life in His Kingdom. We open our hearts to His promise!
Anne and I send our greetings to you from The Gabriel House! It is a joy to share with our friends and long time supporters, that the work of ‘Rescue the Children’s Mission’ continues in earnest! As 2009 stretches out, our vision and mission goals hold fast, in spite of the serious economic pressure and budget cut backs! (our treasurer reports that The Gabriel income has been reduced by at least 45%). However, Anne and I continue to look forward while keeping our spiritual eyes on the Lord! He is in charge! We put our total confidence in Him…and keep looking up!
You will find in this Spring Issue reports on petite Hannah, blind from birth but growing more beautiful each day. She, in the enclosed picture, is horse back riding with Dee Hollander, the director of Special Equestrians here in Fort Myers. This is a very new experience for Hannah. She has no idea what a horse looks like! Yet, her life will never be the same as she rides each week with Dee.
Kumar, on the other hand is in preparation for his international flight to Fort Myers from India. As some of you know, Kumar is partially paralyzed from the waste down. He is able to stand with the help of leg braces. However, walking is another issue. So, he will be in treatment shortly after he arrives at The Gabriel House. Our friends in India have requested us to pray about another child for “Rescue the Children’s Mission.” We ask your prayers for health and travel blessings.
From the dugout…we have two ‘Home Run’ hitters at The Gabriel House. Both Emma and Nathan are playing baseball in a Special Athletic Program in North Fort Myers. They love it!
Recently we received a substantial grant from the Lions Club in Bonita Springs to replace the main house side double doors which were damaged beyond repair… also to replace the loft deck and stairs, which had become unsafe for the kids to use. Enclosed are pictures of Kendall Tresch, the contractor standing on the rebuilt deck and stairs…also a picture of the new doors, Kendall installed. Thank you Bonita Springs Lions Club.
God bless ya’ll! Keep looking up!
Ed and Anne
