Keeping Up with the Joneses

January 2016
reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I
press toward the goal Philippians 3:13b-14a
Dear Family & Friends,
The Scripture passage referenced above, which contains
the part I have listed, is a familiar text used for new year
messages. As I was re-reading it these two phrases grabbed my
attention. The Greek word translated reaching is a compound
word literally meaning to stretch toward something, like
stretching as far as possible to get something that is just out of
reach, or like a runner leaning forward as far as possible at the
finish line to win the race. In 2016, lets streeeeetch toward the
goal of living for and pleasing Him as He desires and deserves.
The pavilion building permit process is still slowly moving
forward with the City planning department. Our new goal is to
have the pavilions, walking track, soccer field, etc. ready for
use by this spring. Please pray with us. We are also praying for
the Lord to provide the funds needed to repay the cost of the
tractor ($16,000) and provide for a Mobile Unit for our newest
International partner in Haiti ($45,000). These are big requests
and needs, but we have a mighty God who is able and has
proven it in providing things like this and bigger in the past,
and will in the future. We must be faithful to askbelieving.
As I write this, Stephen is serving with our DIM partner
church in Colombia on a mission trip. This is his fourth DIM
mission trip in Colombia. Hes working on his mission degree at
Moody Bible Institute and is praying for Gods direction after
that. Thank you for your prayers and generous financial support.
Look for his report in the FOCUS later this month.

GOD WITH US, this is my desire for

our family in 2016 amj
Looking over last year, I am amazed how difficult it was for me,
but feel so blessed that God was there every day drawing me closer
to Him for strength and hope. As a ministry partner with Mike I
dont often admit to stress, but it is real for many wives in ministry
taking care of the home front. We have lost loved ones and our
home church but your prayers go far beyond what you may know!
Christmas was a special time with all of us being together, except
Stephen. From finding the perfect tree and decorating, baking all
the treats, opening gifts with family & friends, to singing and
sharing the story of Immanuel, God with us it brought joy and
peace to my heart.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
We continue to be amazed and humbly grateful at Gods
provision for us through your prayers, support, and special loving
extras. Gifts, cards, and letters in December blessed our Christmas
and helped meet needs. Thank you again for your reaching and
pressing toward the goal with us!
In His service together,
Mike, AnnaMae & family
1321 Upper Kingston Rd Prattville AL 36067 (334) 361-1227

mdamjones1321@bellsouth.net www.drive-inministries.com