We took Laura's mom Martha to her church Sunday and a long time friend asked when I was going to write an email update?! Apparently it's going on six months since I last wrote. That's almost like a sabbatical, to put it graciously.
We have enjoyed some opportunities for ministry, some local, some not so much. Some planned, some serendipitous, some anything but serendipitous given the circumstances. And, as it's been for a long time, telling other people's stories just isn't in the cards :-). (Of course, if you're reading this and want me to tell your story, just let me know. If I agree, others will probably enjoy it too. We all like stories, even when they're not about ourselves.)
Speaking of stories, here's one I can tell. This morning in my men's group I was reminded for some reason of when I was confronted for my arrogance and unteachability in Taiwan, and briefly told the story (as I remember it, of course.) As you might imagine, the men thoroughly enjoyed it. In fact, one prayed thanking God for me, just as I am. Another said he loved it because it reminded him of his own arrogance and unteachability. We could all agree that I've been difficult to manage for a long time. (Ostensibly, we were discussing Acts 17, and not just ostensibly, we actually do read, reflect on, and engage the word, just as we are. Maybe you can even figure out the connection?!) I've been involved with this group since the first year after we returned from Taiwan, 2011, and been its primary facilitator for most of that time, but this morning I asked Herb, and he said this group has been meeting for 18 years! Amazing. Each week we try to ask three questions: How are you? What do you notice (from a chunk of Bible)? What are you taking away? (Or what is your last word? Sometimes some of us have a last word for others more than a take away for ourselves!)
And if you get me started, I definitely have some grandchildren stories. By tomorrow, we'll have two grandsons over 2, along with a 4.5 year old granddaughter, and a newly arrived two week old! Sarah and John just had baby Elijah. We've spent a lot of time with them in these first two weeks, especially with Elijah's older siblings. I have probably read Oh, the places you'll go by Dr. Seuss to almost 2 y.o. Isaiah northward of 20 times, sometimes more than once in a sitting.
Thanks for loving us and being interested in our lives and/or ministry. Whether you are nearby or far away, you matter very much. And (collectively) you are in so many interesting places!
Steve and Laura
PS There is another story the men won't let me forget, but I don't look any better in that one either....
Steve and Laura Spinella
US: 1930 Springcrest Rd, CO Springs 80920
mail: 9685 Otero Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80920
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