House of Moses Update

“Obedience to God does not always mean a happy ending.  But why do we think it should?”  -  Charles Colson 

A dangerous quote in which we all live amongst in the journey as followers of Jesus.  We do not like quotes such as these but the inherency in which they are true in our own lives, cause them to resonate. We know the things we should do, but if we step into these obediences the cost MAY affect our lives.  We may be ignored, rejected, ridiculed..

In the last few weeks at the House of Moses, we have lived out an obedience in which we are just recovering from.  Discipleship, as we are learning, is a very unique journey that we all are on...NO ONE has ARRIVED even though some may appear this is true.  

God allows things to come into our lives to refine us.  But isn’t it awesome to know it is not just for “refining sake” but to make us holy as HE is holy.  Once again, the reasoning for holiness is that we are complete in Jesus.  When we are complete we secrete fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, etc.  The cool thing is, if these “fruits” are being secreted this must mean our hearts are in peace, or contentment, wherever the journey is taking us.  Take a closer look at how Paul explains it in Philippians 4.

We say all this, to say, oh how GREAT is our GOD in the midst of each journey at the House of Moses.  The beauty of transformation that is happening brings us to our knees in HIS overwhelming work amongst us all.

Now for a quick update of what is happening at the House of Moses:

Exams, exams, and more exams 

Currently as I write this update, the students are diligently studying for their quarterly exams.  Each student has an average of 11 tests.  If you were walking around the house you would see many of the students in deep study for these exams.  We are so very proud of them.

Something new for all you SPORT’S FANS 

A new tradition is happening at the House of Moses.  The students love participating in a X-Box soccer tournament on Friday nights.  Needless to say, we are up very late for these tournaments.  

An update on Vanah 

Praise God for technology.  We are able to SKYPE weekly with Vanah which brings joy to both Vanah and all of us here.  Vanah is doing so well.  She made an “A” on her first math test and was the highest grade in the class.  She is having so much fun meeting new people and we are so thankful for the community that has welcomed and loved on her.  Also, thanks to Rodney and Debbie Payne, she has been introduced to Whole Foods where she can buy plantains, which are a staple in Haiti.  Continue to pray for Vanah as she adjusts.

Children’s Ministry 

Okay, I was not ready for this to happen so quickly but the students have officially taken over this ministry.  Yesterday I was upstairs studying Kreyol when I heard a beautiful choir of children’s voices singing.  I thought to myself, is it already Monday.  This is so cool to see how they have not only taken it over but are diligently seeking God on what to do each Monday night as they pour out to our community’s children!

Thursday Night Bible Study 

Humbled and so thankful in what God is doing amongst this community.  As we are taking on Kingdom topics, the house gets fuller each week with those hungering for the Scriptures.  In the next few months, Jocelyn will be teaching one of these nights.  Excited to see him do this as we believe in allowing students opportunity to grow by being thrown into the “fire”, so to speak! 

Look at your calendars 

We, the Barnes’ will be in America from mid May - early July.  We are already planning dates to share the journey of the House of Moses with churches, small groups, etc.  Please keep us in mind and contact us via barnesinhaiti@gmail.com if you would like us to share.   We could also use any help in any form to do our annual donor appreciation gathering, and this year we are going to host a Haiti House of Moses Golf Tournament to raise funds for a vehicle!  If you are interested in hosting or helping with food, invites, etc OR you’re a golfer - PLEASE let us know!

Student of the Month

Jocelyn is the student of the month at the House of Moses.  He brings so much joy to our house in the way he is always smiling and humming/singing some worship song.  On most Saturdays you will find him visiting his sister and his nieces and nephews.  Although he loves to eat, oatmeal and porridge is two of his least favorites; but you will never hear a complaint, just an empty plate.  Jocelyn longs to be a Pastor/Missionary and has a great handling on the Scriptures.  He has had several opportunities to preach at our local church and looks forward to more opportunities in the near future.  We are so thankful for Jocelyn and the light he brings to the House of Moses. 

Praises 

-  Growth in the students as disciples 

-  Overall health for our family and students at the house 

-  Our local church that feel just like family

-  March will be the month of visitors, which is always an encouragement for us 

Prayer 

• Our marriage, that it will be an example of Christ’s love  
• Wisdom on continued discipleship and refining of the students...and US! 
• Wisdom on the exact school and location God wants the House of Moses in 2013-2014 
• Preparation for our time in the U.S., prioritizing and scheduling as God opens doors and provision for the next year’s mission support, rent and needs.