The Lord directs the steps of the godly.

He delights in every detail of their lives. Psalm 37:23 NLT

By Laurel Ellis

September 25^th, 2023

God's schedule is best!

My two mini-itinerations were planned months before David and Jenny, my youngest son and his wife, announced they were expecting their first child. In between services in Oregon in May, I was able to be nearby them and meet Harper on her first day of life. At the end of May, I had arranged my ticket to swing through Phoenix to see my father-in-law, Dick Ellis, for a few hours. Just six days later, he was with the Lord. I am constantly amazed at how God orders our steps.

David, Jenny, Harper (born May 17) and their dog, Ruby.

Grandma and Harper at almost two months old, the day of Dick Ellis's memorial in Washington.

Visiting my mom, Joyce Devin, in Los Angeles on my way to the Dick Ellis' memorial.

Visiting the Ballard locks with Devin, Karyn and Anson.

Saying goodbye to my handsome grandson, Anson. I thank God for being able to video chat.

Dick prayed joy and contentment over me as I continue in missionary service. What a gift to have seen him days before he was promoted to heaven.

Ripple effects

In June I was invited to share at CAM, a church in Riobamba. The congregation is buying a property with buildings already on it, very similar to what the church in Chile had done. I used many of the testimonies of giving from the church in Concepción to inspire CAM likewise to give generously.

On a random Tuesday, which "happened" to be Rick's birthday, I received a call from Juan and Rocio, a couple I hadn't heard from in 30 years. They had attended the church planting tent crusade in Loja. Juan and Rocio were passing through Cuenca on their way home to Quito and invited me for coffee. I was so blessed to hear their heartfelt appreciation for Rick and my ministry in Loja all those years ago and how God had forever changed their lives. It was like a kiss from heaven.

Earlier in September, I drove four hours through the beautiful Andes to Catamayo in the province of Loja to help with a construction team from Spirit Church in Oklahoma. They came with a 13-member team to work on Timothy's Abode, a missions training center for Ecuadorians. I have the pleasure to teach there every year. The beautiful building sits on land donated by Centro Cristiano de Loja, the church Rick and I had planted over 30 years ago.