Hoskins Update

Hello Friends,
This month, Deborah turned 26 years old.  On her birthday, I reminded her that Southern Baptist churches print prayer lists for missionaries that are organized by birthday.  It is very likely that hundreds -maybe even thousands- of people were praying for her by name that day.  We are thankful that God allowed us to enjoy a special day spending time together, having a party with new friends, and visiting some family members on skype.  Thank you for praying for us.  Your prayers make a difference!

As you know, we love to tell a good story.  Since our last update, we've had plenty!  Here are some of the highlights:
In one of the Manzini region churches, a visiting American mission team drew a crowd of children for their Bible stories and crafts.  They also attracted the attention of some older guys who came to watch from a distance.  Todd was able to share his lunch, and more importantly, the gospel with them under the neighbor's porch. One of those boys decided to give his life to Christ.  Todd has been able to talk with that group several times since that day and will continue to follow up with them.

Deborah hosted a retreat for the middle school-aged girls in her Sunday School class at our home last weekend.  We learned about God being our Heavenly Father.  Sharing our 2 bedroom/1 bath apartment with 17 girls was a new challenge for Todd.  Personally, I think you haven’t lived until you’ve been a part of a girls’ spend-the-night party.

This month we attended our first Swazi wedding.  Despite never having met the bride or groom, we had actually received an official invitation (which apparently is not a prerequisite to attending weddings here).  We met up with some friends and attempted to blend into the crowd.  It didn’t work.  We were soon seated next to the bride’s father and mother and Todd was called forward to pray… Next time we’re going to have to learn names!

And finally, yesterday after greeting an older man at a homestead near the church we attend, we were able to share our favorite story: The story of the Bible from Creation to Christ.  The entire family was gathered from the house and yard, and the children and grandchildren almost filled the living room floor.  After thanking the older man for his hospitality (and for the chicken they had obviously killed and cooked for us), I asked if we could show our appreciation by telling them a Bible story. This is an example of one of the materials that we are developing to be used in local churches. 

Please continue to be in prayer for us as we look for new opportunities to teach and share these materials and others like it with the Swazi people.  We love and miss you all.