“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” Jesus tells his disciples and us in John 15:12-13.
What exciting two months we already had in 2008!
The year began with us spending time together with Charles’ sister and our eldest son, Keith. While in the north-eastern part of Guatemala, we visited with folks, who we had met three years ago. They invited us to participate in their family’s New Year’s celebration. What an honor!
The third week of January, Petra translated for and assisted a medical team of about 40 participants. About 73 surgeries were performed during that week. What a blessing it was for the patients, who had many medical problems alleviated. Also, the medical team from North America thought of this time as a humbling experience in realizing, that God uses us to make His love known to others around us.
After returning home from this trip, there was just enough time for Petra to wash clothes, before repacking for a two week trip to attend to some business up North and at the same time visit with our daughter Marta.
For most of January and part of February, therefore, Charles and the boys were on their own. However, everything worked just fine. Come to think of it, James and Jonathan enjoy Charles’ cooking better than Petra’s. 
Additionally, on Sundays, Jonathan made pizza. We are keeping this tradition even after Petra’s return.
Charles also often helps out the other missionaries with vehicle or home emergencies. Often one of the spouses is out of town either with a missions’ team or in the States and that, of course, is the time when cars break down and pipes spring leaks!
We like to thank you for your faithful prayer and financial support. Let us continue to follow Christ’s example by loving each other as he has loved us. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.
