February Keynotes

School

This past semester, Chris drove stick shift everyday while taking a full load of classes at seminary. Admittedly, it was mostly out of pride to prove to himself that he could be “normal.” Nevertheless, the Lord graciously continues to teach us contentedness with where He has us. Through the strength of the Lord, the prayers of family and friends, and a couple of cups of coffee each morning Christopher was able to finish out the semester. A highlight was getting to write his first church history paper on John Nelson Darby and the rise of Dispensational Theology in North America. In January, Chris took a Leadership course and currently is taking 3 spring courses: Medieval Church, Old Testament History and Theology 2, & Old Testament Introduction (8 credits). He will also be continuing an internship at church consisting of monthly worship leading, weekly shut-in visitation, and bi-monthly small group leadership. He’s excited about the opportunities this semester holds.

Job
Rebecca’s job transition from the fall is finally complete. Many thanks to all who prayed/sent monetary gifts to us during the time we were without income. The Lord continues to provide for our needs, and this job is no exception. Please pray for stamina for Rebecca as she keeps a horrendous work schedule in order to pay Chris’ way through these seminary years.

Ebenezer Raised
We were very blessed to celebrate our second anniversary last month. In many ways, it has felt like far longer than that, but in other ways it is hard to believe that the Lord has brought us this far. We continue to strive to learn how to love better: each other, the Lord and those around us. Thus here we raise an Ebenezer, a reminder of God’s faithfulness to us over thru last two years of struggle and hardship. The more we get to know ourselves, the more we realize God’s faithfulness will remain a paradigm for the rest of our lives!

Health
Chris’ CK (muscle breakdown level) doubled with the stress of the last semester to the mid 2800s, though it has since come down to 1903 in early February. He’s trying to cut back on classes to better take care of himself and Rebecca, while resuming regular work outs at the gym.

Quiet Time
We are learning that we are forgetful human beings. If we don’t daily spend time with God reminding ourselves of the truth of the gospel, then our entire lives will be consumed with the selfishness of Christopher-ness or Rebecca-ness. It is because of this reality that our daily time in the Scriptures with God together has become an essential part of our lives and marriage. Pray for us as we strive to faithfully maintain this discipline.

Family Time
Christmas in Maryland was filled with many joyous times including singing with the family, as the pictures above illustrate. It was so nice to enjoy a week with Gramps and Nana Knaebel from Michigan, Grandma Ruby Pribble, both Chris’ sisters, parents, as well as Bethany’s husband Alex. What a blessing to be able to have all the Knaebels together for the holiday. Dad & Mom Knaebel seem to have both recovered from their broken feet. Thanks to all for their prayers. Pray for Grandma Pribble who currently suffers from a very painful crushed vertebra in her back.
As for the Hall family (Rebecca’s side), there will be a week-long summer get together at Hilton Head Beach from July 12-19.