We wanted to start by thanking Baptist World Mission for all of the support so far. From the encouragement of the board members before, during, and after our acceptance, to the deputation support staff and all of their time and effort to keep us informed and on-track, to the finance staff shedding light on processes and practices. Everyone has been so encouraging and gracious, and God has made it clear that BWM is the place for us. We had the opportunity at the Annual Conference in October to meet so many missionaries in so many different positions from starting deputation to finishing deputation to wrapping up 50 years on the mission field. All were an encouragement to us and we look forward to getting to know them all more as God gives us further opportunities.
I have finished my first year of classes at Portland Community College, working toward the FAA Air-frame & Powerplant certificates. I have completed my General and Airframe sections and, Lord willing, will finish up my Powerplant work in November.
We are working to set up meetings in the Pacific Northwest through the end of 2019, and planning to begin full-time deputation in early 2020. We had the opportunity to be with the wonderful people of Grace Baptist Church in Surrey, British Columbia in February. They were very gracious hosts, even taking care of us when the unexpected snowstorm kept us from driving home as planned.
We were also able to spend some time with Berean Baptist Church in Independence, Oregon, in February. Once again, we are so excited for the opportunity to meet new people and learn of the many missionaries that they support and pray for continually. The people at Berean Baptist Church were warm and welcoming, making us feel right at home. We could not ask for better friends than those we have met so far.
A big praise for those who have been praying with us for the purchase of the truck and fifth-wheel trailer for deputation. Many of you know that we were able to find a truck that will more than suit our needs. God worked it out so that we did not have to travel far, since it was right in the Portland area, and it was just what we needed. The next big piece to that puzzle was the trailer. We have looked for several years now, through the process of getting started in missions, and the Lord, in His timing, brought the right trailer to us in February. He unexpectedly provided this, as well, in the Portland area meeting our needs and within our price range. It is very difficult at times to wait on the Lord, not knowing all that he has in store, but as he provides, it seems to amaze us every time. In Ephesians, Paul writes: "Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus through-out all ages, world without end. Amen" (Ephesians 3:20-21).
We cannot possibly imagine all that God has in store for us in the future, but we serve a great God and we look forward to the journey through which He is guiding us. We are so grateful for all of those who are praying for us. We don’t deserve the friendships that God has given us, but we are so thankful to all that have supported us in prayer, in spiritual guidance, in encouragement, and even financially. May the Lord bless you as much as he has blessed us.
Matt & Rebekah Cook
Emily, Michael, Chelsea, Elijah & Noah
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