Troy Manning

Though I didn’t beat my previous record, I did stay in 4 different houses in 7 days during the Thanksgiving weekend.  I blazed through snow, hail, and rain on my way back to the Chicago area on Thanksgiving morning.  I arrived safely at my cousin’s house and enjoyed a wonderful turkey dinner with him, his family, and his dad (also my uncle). Some of you may have been crazy enough to shop til you dropped on Black Friday, but I limited my craziness to one key purchase–a GPS.  Now I know exactly where I am at all times… hopefully.  It’s only let me down a few times so far, but a few of those may have been user errors (imagine that?!).  I’m thankful that it helped me find a Panera Bread in Decatur, IL, without any problem.  Very important finds when on the road! 

I returned to Grand Rapids the Wednesday after Thanksgiving, and I’ve been here ever since (except for short trips within the state).  I’ve spent most of my time with deputation activities, but I have been able to devote some time to the ministry of Bibles International.  I’m glad that I can already have a part in helping further this ministry.

The Lord continues to bless my deputation efforts.  I have made substantial contacts with various pastors, and I have been able to secure meetings with a few of them.  A number have promised meetings, but we still need to secure dates.  Please pray about that.  The Lord has also burdened hearts to support me.  Individuals/ churches have promised future support. 

I’m thankful that I am now a “watchcare member” of Westside Baptist Church.  The charter service was yesterday.  It’s such a blessing to be involved in such a key date in the life of that church.  I look forward to seeing how God will use us to proclaim Christ in Grand Rapids.