The holiday season is upon us once again, and we want you to know that we are very grateful for you taking a moment to step into our lives.
This past year has been challenging in a number of ways, but we are continuously reminded of God’s incredible blessings.
Work, Study, Sleep, Repeat
Norton Hall at Southern Seminary
Matt has maintained a heavy school workload taking four to five classes in the spring and fall semesters and two classes during the summer. His greatest feat was completing all of his Greek classes and one Hebrew class. The languages prove to be the toughest, but God’s gifted him with a determination to never give up!
Since moving to Louisville 1.5 years ago, his library has grown by three bookcases (not even kidding)! We like to call his office/library the “old man cave.”
Meanwhile, he has remained a faithful employee of the Seed Company, where he has been recognized for his growth and knowledge and recently received a new title: Dev Ops Engineer. Praise God! This new title comes with more responsibility but is evidence of Matt’s determination to strive hard and learn new things.
I (Leah) also keep myself quite busy. In September, I celebrated a year at ResCare, where I am the communications coordinator. I never imagined having a role in a 50,000+ employee company, but I have no doubt the Lord has me there for a reason. The role can be challenging, but I have wonderful co-workers to work with each day.
I am continuing my contract writing with the Seed Company and also attend a Seminary Wives Institute class weekly during the spring and fall, where we learn very practical tips and tools for partnering with our husbands in ministry.
There is rarely a dull moment! Every semester brings a new schedule, so we are always kept on our feet.
Our (Compassion) Child
In November, Matt and I made a decision about something that started touching both of our hearts long before we even knew one another. We started sponsoring a little girl in Ethiopia through Compassion International. She is 5 years old. We are so excited to build a relationship with her through letter writing and to support her as she grows up. The program ensures the children hear the Gospel, so we pray that she comes to know the Lord as her Savior.
Friends for a Lifetime
We cannot talk about our year without mentioning Dave and Deborah Knierim. These two have been such a blessing to us. We’ve gotten to watch them become first-time homeowners of a house in which they have let us into many times for dinner, games, laughs and more. They let our hyper dog run like a free dog in their big backyard while we roast hot dogs and marshmallows around their fire pit. Dave has a Ph.D. from Southern Seminary and has great wisdom and insight to share with Matt. Deborah comes from a family with a phenomenal testimony, which you can read about in her mom’s book, “Co-Missioned.” I highly recommend it!
They were also kind enough to invite us to join their family for Thanksgiving*.
Small Town Preacher Man
In October, Matt had a great opportunity to preach at a small town church in Indiana. The congregation was so loving and receptive of the message. We are grateful for any doors the Lord opens to practice what he’s learning in seminary.
How Much Longer and What’s Next?
These are the two most common questions we hear, so how about we just answer! Matt’s remaining classes total to about another year of schooling. Of course, we are leaving the timing up to God and just following His will. What’s next is also in the Lord’s hands. Just as Matt is gifted in and is passionate about preaching, he’s also very good at his IT work. We are confident the Lord will show us what’s next in His perfect timing.
For now, we look forward to a Christmas season of traveling back to Texas to see family, friends and a brand new baby niece!
As always, your words of encouragement, wisdom, advice and/or prayers are welcome in the comments below.
We want to wish you and your families a very, Merry Christmas!
Love,
Leah & Matt
*Our Thanksgiving with the Knierims
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