October Update

Plattner family Jamaica Update
Our little Truitt is the master of intimate moments. He will not always go there, but when he does, he has the sweetest things to say and will snuggle up to you in a way that will melt your heart. The last time I caught him in one of these moods, I began talking with him about how he is growing into such a big boy. He humbly agreed and then shared that he thought that Daddy and Mommy were growing smaller. My first reaction was to start inquiring into what he could mean that Daddy and Mommy were growing smaller. I think I asked the question and then let it go. But, the longer I thought about it, the more the truth of it became apparent. In every part of his world, Daddy and Mommy are growing smaller. First, physically, every inch the little lad grows, the smaller his parents seem from his perspective. But that was only the first and less insightful thought that our little philosopher bestowed upon us. The more stark reality is that from this point forward we will be growing smaller and smaller in our level of control in his life. While we do still have years left of influence in his life, he has now begun his journey towards independence. He is starting to pour his own milk, soon he will be off to school, driving a car, and then he will be making decisions as to the course of his life. Similarly, it’s our prayer that we can display a life that is characterized by growing smaller so that our God can show up bigger and bigger in our life. This is our heart for our kids that we can use our influence, ever decreasing as it may be, to display “the smaller life” to our kids in a way that will lead them towards pursuing a life that will similarly make Him big.

Ahh, just a regular month. October for us represented just a regular month. Routines, classes, church, school, laughing, crying, joy, sorrow, etc. I think we could classify it as remarkably unremarkable. And, that is not a complaint. While it leaves not much to send in a monthly update, it does provide for time to live, learn, and grow. One thing that is not worthy of the label of “average” was that we celebrated our 6th wedding anniversary. The blessings of marriage continue to overwhelm as and we are thankful. We know it is by grace that we have experienced the joy of marriage, and by grace that we go forward in faith. We are thankful for the grace given this month in the form of a regular month.

We continue to wait on the Lord as to His ongoing direction in our lives. At the beginning of November, a team from our sending organization is coming to asses our work and also assist us in working through some issues regarding the direction of our ministry. Please join us in praying for this time that it can be beneficial for all involved. As is always the case in this type of work, there are so many stakeholders that need consideration. Our heart is for honest discernment and wisdom with an eternal perspective. By Grace!

Love,
Kirk, Keri, Drew, Truitt, and Daisha