Missionary Update                October 2004 Letter

We truly have enjoyed getting to see the States fall colors and the weather. Some days can look a bit dreary with clouds and rain and other days one can see the sun shining on the multi-colored leaves. These changes can remind you of how life can be. It is good to know who God is and His promises to us as we go through the cloudy days of life. Come rain or shine He never changes.

We are enjoying many road trips to different churches sharing about God's work in PNG. The month of Oct. has seen us mostly in the state of Iowa. We have been encouraged by the people who are praying and giving to see others come to know Christ. It is exciting to hear the questions asked and what a blessing it is to know how God's people desire to be at work in the field of harvest. He has many ways the body of believers can work together. We hope each one knows what, where, and how God would have them be about His business.

We have also enjoyed being with our friends taking in a couple of days to hear some Gospel singing. There is so much one can receive in songs that are sung to lift up God's love, mercy, and grace. His scriptures speak of the praise that we can give through the playing of instruments and singing of songs. Read Psalms 33 for your heart to know that praise from the upright is beautiful.

We spent an evening at the Language School with some of the students interested in going to PNG. We hope we were able to give a clear picture of where they can work and answer their questions that would help them prepare to go there. Working with new missionaries to the field, we have found that there will always be the unknown of what one will face and that expectations can lead to disappointment even in the best laid plans, but we know that by walking in faith God is able to get you there and keep you each day.

The Mankey clan- (brothers and sisters and families) enjoyed a fall picnic together at the park. With our children growing up and having families of their own along with the many diverse jobs they have, it is hard to meet for a family time. We are thankful that this day was set aside so we could catch up with one another.

Adam and Carrianne are busy with work and studies. We keep in touch by phone as road trips haven't allowed for a visit this month. Caleb came to see us for a short visit. His work and college studies are a major portion of his days. Lyle is hoping to get some hunting time in with the guys this November deer season. He was able to hunt for the fall turkey season and we enjoyed the tasty meat of the birds.

In November we share at a Mission conference in Lee's Summit, MO. We hope to get to be with family for Thanksgiving. Don't forget to pray for safety for those hunters.

Thank you for the prayers and support that is given to see God's work continue to His glory. We pray God's richest blessings for you in each day.

In His Service

Lyle & Martha

Mankey