Pray BFF Letter #238

Friday, January 24, 2014

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"Making most of your time"

Dear Prayer Partners,

We are using this key verse again!

“Making the most of your time because the days are evil!” (Ephesians 5:16)

Surprised

While making plans for our trip to Peru, I Skyped (video conference via computer) my good minister friend Alberto. He asked, “Where are you?” I told him. He asked, “Where do you think I am?” Of course, he could have been anywhere, but I assumed he was at home in Georgia. He happened to be just north of our city preaching at a church missions conference. He has such a burden for Spanish-speaking families and discipleship.

We had such a pleasant conversation and his host overheard our conversation which was fine. It was a little like group chat. We hoped to meet up for breakfast on his way to the airport on Monday morning. We were laughing to discover that we were born the same year. Plans changed, however.

I never expected this

Plans radically changed. I got a phone call Sunday morning during communion. After the service I looked and noticed that my pastor friend Alberto was transported by helicopter to a nearby hospital (Presbyterian UPMC). He had had a stroke after preaching the first Sunday morning message. After 1-2 days, Albert had brain surgery. He is now in recovery. They now want him moved but the family is trying to delay his release until Monday. But then we are also praying for $6000 for an ambulance to take him to Georgia for rehabilitation, if this is best. Pray for good liaison and provision for costs.

I am deeply aware how, at the same age, that could have been me. I would have wished we met at breakfast rather than at the hospital. Fortunately, he is talking and able to move limbs freely. His wife and daughter have been staying at our home (the daughter stays at the hospital most of the time). What a reminder to make most of one’s days.

Sunday Training

Meanwhile, life goes on. We are already preparing for our fourth session of Reaching Beyond Mediocrity. The attendance and questions have been good. I met with the other teachers today and each is excited for the next sessions. Keep praying that God would work powerfully in the hearts of His people.

Praise!

Paul and Kathryn (his daughter) will head for southern Peru around Easter.
We thank God for our family’s generally good health over the years.
Praise for one of the best hospitals to care for Pastor Alberto.
So thankful the Alberto’s host overheard our conversation and was able to contact me about this so we, being so nearby, could help out.

Pray!

Reaching Beyond Mediocrity has begun well. Paul teaches the 4th session on Jan 26th.
Still need prayer that details for the Peru trip would work out. Pastor Alberto was arranging for a possible 2nd seminar (and do not know if he contacted the pastor).
Great wisdom and provision is needed for arrangements for Pastor Alberto (no insurance).
Safety for travels south to see my Mom. Grace to work on some things regarding my Dad’s estate. (We’re not trying to escape the cold, are we?)

Thanks so much for your prayers!

Paul

Rev. Paul J. Bucknell, President and Instructor

Biblical Foundations for Freedom

____________________________

Email: pb@foundationsforfreedom.net
Phone: (+1) 412-398-4559 (Mobile)
3276 Bainton St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 USA

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