Emmanuel

Emmanuel- God with us. It's that time of year when we say it the most. "God with us".  Lately, I've come to understand a different spin on that Angel's proclamation. God is now with us; always. We know that's true from the words of Christ; but, how often do we live like that?  Do we really live like God is always with us? Generally, I allow the cares of this world to pull me away from God's presence; existing in a state of preoccupation of life's circumstances. Jesus not only came to save us from our future judgment, but also from our present desperation. God is with us. God is always with us. This has been my revelation. In order to live above life's circumstances, we must train our hearts and minds to dwell in God's omnipresence in our lives. He is always there. Who would argue with God's faithfulness besides the faithless?  God's presence is our greatest gift; one we Christians will enjoy not only for this Christmas, but for all eternity. Merry Christmas!  I'm going to do my best this year, to focus on what I have already received rather than what I am lacking.

Our ministry down here at Grace Children's Home has changed SO much.  Melissa and I call it “Mexico 2.0”.  We moved to GCH, put our children in school (verses being home schooled) and I went back to my old job as Operations Coordinator.  With this move Melissa inherited the job as House Mom in the Babies’ Home (now called the Nursery).  She now manages four babies, three interns, four employees downstairs, as well as three kids and one husband, and a house upstairs (not to mention treating patients on Thursdays!).  My wife is one very gifted woman!  Not only is she doing a great job; she’s having fun too!  It’s awesome to see what God is doing through my wife and children.  They are very challenged, but doing great in school.  God brings us challenges and adversity as training tools; if we have the faith to trust in His process. 

 

Every day we see evidence of God's hand around us. His presence is evident in the lives of the children of GCH (and ours!) as they mature emotionally, spiritually and physically.  God is with us!

We have been down here 3 ½ years now!  Time moves by so quickly.  As 2014 comes to a close, we would like to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the support, love and encouragement you all have given us.  You have given us a gift with your prayers and financial sacrifices, enabling us to be here serving these children while serving the Lord.  Thank you!  We pray that God will richly bless you in the coming year!

The Hanson Family: Michael, Melissa, Caleb, Sarah and Nathan.