Our New Year's Resolution

On the eve of 2009, we cannot help but think of one American tradition...The New Year's Resolution. Historically speaking, these resolutions are usually grand in thought, but somewhat short lived. This year our family has but one resolution that we intend to keep long after the celebrations have ceased:

To walk in God's will in 2009, wherever or however He may lead.

We are excited to know that He does have plans for 2009, and those plans seem to be heading us toward Hungary in a short time from now. Much of 2008 has been spent in preparation for this journey. As we consider the past year, we see how God's provision and timing has been perfect. We originally had prayed that God would provide for us to be in Hungary by the end of January, but as we neared the end of the year, it was clear this was not God's plan. God has given us several more opportunities in January, February and March to share our ministry with churches and people across the country. Also, we still need additional people to come onto our support team so we can meet our financial goals. Therefore, we anticipate our transition to Hungary with take place the end of March. We are praying that God would provide all our needs so this can be possible. Things look very promising and we trust that God's timing is perfect in all things.

As you consider your resolutions for the coming year, we pray that 2009 would be a time for you to draw closer to God and to walk faithfully in His will for you life.

Looking Forward,
Jonathan and Corinne

The Long Awaited Arrival

The Long family has many things to be thankful for this Thanksgiving - most importantly the arrival of our second child! Grant Oliver Long greeted the world on Tuesday, November 11, 2008 at 3:57pm. He weighed 9 pounds 11.5 ounces and was 19 inches long. He has a head full of blond hair, deep blue eyes, and an adoring big brother.

In the short first two weeks of his life, Grant has already had the opportunity to visit church for the first time and attend his first missions conference as the family travelled to Indian Falls, NY this past weekend. He already has 1000 miles under his belt and is well on his way to official MK status (missionary kid).

His birth has reminded us once again of the wonderful blessings God has given to us this past year. Not only have we been blessed with a beautiful and healthy child, but have experienced first hand the blessings poured out upon us as we travelled cross-country these past 6 months. We are so thankful for the many wonderful and caring people we have met along the way - the friends and families that have offered us their prayers, their support and their partnership in our ministry. As we trust for the future that God will continue to provide, we are too thankful for what is yet to be done! We have seen His hand at work in so many ways, and it excites us to see what He has yet to do!

Our hope for you this Thanksgiving holiday is that you too would feel God's blessing upon your lives and that you would be able to spend this time sharing in the hope for God's blessing in the days to come.

With Love and Thankfulness,
Jonathan, Corinne, Carter and Grant

A First at First

This past week we had the opportunity to participate in a missions conference in Corry, PA. Many of our meetings were at the First United Methodist Church. Their theme this year was "Missions: Our Investment in Eternity". We felt this was an especially fitting theme and logo following the recent events of our economy. We were reminded that missions is truly about earthly sacrifice for heavenly gain. Isn't that what God calls us all to? We should all strive to "Lay up our treasures in heaven!"

We can definitely say we were blessed by our involvement! Through the kindness of many individuals, we were made so welcome. We enjoyed meals and meetings in many of the congregation members' homes. We also spoke at the church for the Wednesday evening service. The worship, which was led by On Staff for HIM missionary Ken Fitch, was inspiring. Each day we enjoyed devotion and prayer time that was uplifting and encouraging.

Carter received specials blessings this week as well...we were surprised Wednesday evening with a birthday cake, balloon and gifts in celebration of his third birthday! Everyone showed us so much love and care.

We enjoyed a special "first" this week as well. We had the oportunity to share on CorryFirst Radio's Wednesday Nite Live program. You can enjoy our broadcast by clicking on the player below...hope you enjoy!

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