The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone. Isaiah 9:2 ESV
He will swallow up death forever; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces, and the reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth, for the Lord has spoken. Isaiah 25:8 ESV
Jesus, the Light of the World, has come! Even the deepest darkness of death itself is swallowed up by His glorious light. Whatever darkness you find yourself in right now, turn to the Light.
On this First Sunday in Advent, I hope these words encourage you to seek Jesus in a fresh way this holiday season.
It has been a long time since I last shared an update about our family. Here is a summary of what has happened:
–Rebekah continues to work as an intern at a local agency for her M.S.W. degree. The employees and the clients love her! She recently traveled to Iowa for a friend’s wedding and had a great time reconnecting with friends. She is very active in our church teaching, singing, and writing/directing the Christmas program. Please pray for her as she struggles with thyroid/immune system issues.
–Today, Victoria had her final Feast of Carols concert with the Arkansas Tech University Choir. She was even able to conduct “Carol of the Bells”! She also is very involved in her church serving on the worship team and leading a girl’s small group. Please pray for her as she finishes up her senior year and begins her internship in vocal music education.
–Maria is looking forward to a spring choir trip where the RHS choir will travel to New York to participate in a festival at Carnegie Hall. She also has an upcoming Christmas concert. Her one-act play did very well in a recent competition. She was honored to write and direct the drama for our community Veteran’s Day celebration. She also is enjoying serving at our church. Please pray for her to finish her high school experience strong.
Please pray for all of our girls to continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ!
–Leah continues to struggle with various health issues, but remains the heart and soul of our family. Her faith is incredibly strong even though she faces daily challenges. Her beloved brother died recently. Pray for her to experience the Shalom (peace, completeness) of Jesus Christ!
–I am very busy working three part-time jobs. I love being a chaplain with Arkansas Hospice. I work with an awesome team and together we serve incredible clients and their families. I also work as an administrative assistant with my denomination’s district office. Our wonderful district superintendent is moving on after many years of faithful service, so my employment at the district may change soon. I also am the interim pastor at a Cumberland Presbyterian Church in nearby Appleton, Arkansas. We could not ask for a more loving and encouraging church family. While I am not ordained in the CPC denomination, the people have embraced me as their “pastor.” They even put my name on their sign! Please pray for me to have the health and energy to do all I do for the glory of my Savior!
We so love and appreciate our many friends who faithfully pray for us and encourage us in a multitude of ways. I am so sorry that with my busy schedule and exhausted body, I have not kept in touch. May God bless you with His presence and peace!
Brian
Brian Heinen 802 East 23rd Street, Russellville, Arkansas, 72802
479-886-0765 brheinen1@gmail.com
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Behold, the Lamb of God! 