Prayer Letter Archive

May 2004

We just got word that a frail, old friend of ours has gone to be with the Lord. Matiyakai, was a very tiny woman who suffered with chest and breathing problems the whole time we knew her. Her chronic cough and rattling chest constantly made her very laborious life in the tribe even more difficult. She lived and worked hard as all Malaumandan women must but small things made her happy. She would ask us for empty bleach or detergent bottles to use as water containers-always rejoicing to possess such a treasure!

After hearing the Gospel teaching Matiyakai testified to her trust in its message. She has breathed her last difficult breath but suffers no more. Both Matiyakai and the Ryder family are now removed from the village of Malaumanda but we have a bond that will bring us together again. That bond is the blood of Jesus Christ . We continue to labor in Papua New Guinea so that others may know this truth.

Jeff bending down toward Matiyakai. Yes, she was that tiny!

Grant has been dealing with bouts of illness all year long. What is a common cold to most of us is to Grant a severe bout with bronchitis or pneumonia. Suffering with asthma and several allergies may add to his susceptibility to breathing complications. He has missed 1/4 of the school year because of these problems and has been inhibited from certain activities he enjoys (like sports) for even longer periods of time. Though there has been some discouraging times, Grant has kept a very good attitude throughout this year. In an attempt to find some answers to these medical concerns we'll be traveling to Australia this summer for tests and appointments with medical specialists. In this visit we are seeking clear and definitive direction towards helping Grant improve his condition.

Grant, smiling in spite of poor health.

Prayer requests-

• Beginning May 29 we start seeing some doctors regarding Grant's health. June 10 Jeff is scheduled for surgery on his shoulder. Joy will also be getting a checkup regarding her back.
• Pray for these important medical issues involving our family.
• This month is very busy as the school year draws to a close. Graduation is on the 27th. We fly to Australia the 28th. Please pray for stamina in these busy days.