I see as I review my writings, especially those done more recently, I see that it is a blessed opportunity to express my love for Jesus and all that he did and is. He made it possible for me to know Him and he me! I suppose I knew this from the day of my conversion.  But now it is more formative, more life-giving.  My walk with Jesus is front and center for me.  This relationship sheds light on all of life.

I am identified, I suppose, in several ways – a Mennonite, a missionary, an American, white, fairly well educated (in cultural terms), a writer and scholar, if I may be so forward as to say so.  I am so many things.

For my wife I am one thing.  For my children another.  These perceptions do not depend on me.  I find myself less interested in how I am viewed but how I view Jesus Christ.  Life spins webs in a hundred trees, my living faith places Jesus Christ at the center of it all.  I assume all God’s saints find themselves like that!

When you are 91 years old, physical issues do emerge!  I have some, of course, but that does not weaken my faith, but strengthens it.  I walk closer with Anna Ruth in our faith journey now more than ever.  We realize how precious this gift is, really.  We hope to celebrate our wedding anniversary in December – 70 unbelievable years.   Thank you, Jesus!

Last year brought huge changes in my health, my life in general.  Lost my driving license, got off all committees, and that sort of thing.  Now I am, in a sense, redefining myself!  An adventure, indeed!  I know my days are limited but I need to fill each one with joy and thanksgiving.

Family continues to be the dominant feature of our life.  Today, for example, is Friday, when Anna Ruth brings to the table her weekly creations.  As we sup together we are blessed, blessed.

We have had several visits from Tanzanian guests recently.  Each a joy beyond telling.  We praise the Lord for the life He made for us.  Our many friends attest to God’s faithfulness.

The calendar tells us that we will not live forever.  My sister Twila is now 105, mother died at age 95, etc.  Dwight, Arnold and Duane are older than I!

Workwise, I am in a new world, exciting and fresh.  I enjoy home, shop, garden, neighbors, etc.  In other words relationships are what gives life meaning.  Anna Ruth, who is a year and three months older than I, is a gift to me and to many.  Lord, you saw all these days and planned for each. Now we have the joy of discovering that way.

All I am, were and will be is in the hands of Him who guided me, at my side, through these many years.  Thank you, Lord, for your patience, for your grace and for your love.