As we look back on 2013 and give thanks for all that God has done we wanted to recap a few of the stories that we shared, in case you didn’t read all 120 stories that were posted in 2013.

DeAnna has had several adventures with different animals. From chickens in trees to an attacking caterpillar and who can forget the battle she had with the “crazy” cat. There were many challenges with stoves at the beginning of the year, but my wife’s cooking skills never cease to amaze me.

The boys continue to thrive and enjoy many things from Karate to man’s best friend to buying new shoes or not wearing them at all. Then there is making new friends and playing some wii.

As we go into 2014 I’m reminded of the sheep that were in the truck and the shepherd that worked hard to keep them in the truck and how God’s Word can take away our tears. We started 2013 with the image of heavy burdens and I’m thankful that God has taken many of them away this year.

There are many additional stories that I would love to write about and share how God intervened and provided wisdom, but because of my responsibilities many of the daily tasks I do require discretion and I will have to wait and share some of these stories in person. Don’t forget to ask me about my first Cameroonian convocation or learning to speak Ewondo with 4 police officers in my office or the funeral I attended where the deceased was 2 hours late for his own funeral.

This year as we look forward to all that God is going to do, I pray that many more will listen to the Shepherd’s voice. That no matter what language they speak they will hear and understand.

I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep. I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd. John 10:14-16 NLT