November 27, 2013

It is good to give thanks to the Lord, and to sing praises to Thy name, O Most High; To declare Thy lovingkindness in the morning, and Thy faithfulness by night.  Psalm 92:1,2

Dear Jordan Library Friends,

The Psalmist certainly had his finger on a basic truth, it is indeed a good thing to sing praise and express thanks to our Creator.  Samuel Adams (1722-1803) an American patriot is credited with making the first official Thanksgiving proclamation.  History records that he recommended “To set apart Thursday the eighteenth day of December for solemn thanksgiving and praise, that with one heart and one voice the good people may express the grateful feelings of their hearts and consecrate themselves to the service of their divine benefactor.”

We all are aware that thanksgiving is not limited to one day in November but is, for those who love the Lord, a daily practice. The late President John F. Kennedy put it this way, “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”

For us who are involved in BOOKS & MORE in Amman, Jordan, right at the top of our thanksgiving list is you.  God has worked through you and your prayers to provide the books, DVDs, finances and so much more to keep the library going and growing since it opened in May 2010.  We are expanding our facilities this year so that we have four times the space we previously occupied.  You understand that means increased resources, personnel, utilities and all the rest in order to meet the greater opportunities presented to us.  You and we are in a partnership of faith, gratitude, and reliance on God.  Neither you nor we have to worry since as Paul wrote to the Philippians, “My God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

We, Nancy and Harvey, will be returning to Jordan December 12.  All the reports from Awatef (Librarian) and Bassam (Business Manager) is that the Library has grown in our absence with six new membership families and a number of book donations.  While in the USA we have traveled speaking to churches and individuals in seven States and to students, staff and faculty in two Bible Colleges and a Christian University. We were privileged to see a number of you at ICOM (International Conference on Missions).  Each of these opportunities is a reason for prayer, praise and gratitude.

With deep appreciation,

Nancy and Harvey Bacus

BOOKS & MORE, Amman Jordan

 

You have clothed me with joy that my heart may sing to You and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give You thanks forever.  Psalm 30:12