I had a dream last night about my friends again. It seems that my mind creates scenarios in which I can visit you without leaving my bed. It’s quite amazing. Last night, I spent most of my time with Yesenia. It was Halloween (interesting that it actually is) and we were discussing the party. I was trying to figure out what I was going as, and she was telling me that she wasn’t going to go, being as pregnant as she was and all, she just didn’t feel like it. Daryl was going, though. Some other notable cameos: Jessica Tilley, Ian, Ben, and Katie Jones. I’m sure there were others I can’t remember right now. The most interesting thing about the dream was that I was home after only 2 months of being gone. I felt like I was out of the loop, but that I shouldn’t be home already. It felt wrong and totally out of place to be home so soon. When I woke up, it was one of those moments where you’re not sure where you are and what you’re doing there. Once I figured it out, I was so relieved to still be in Israel. I have so much more to do here.

Which brings me to an important point. Please, please, please pray for me. At the moment I have some renegade stomach virus that keeps me chained to within about 20 ft of a bathroom. I am feeling a bit better, but it’s not over yet. I have been sick so much since I‘ve been here, and I’ve been trying to figure out Satan’s purposes in all of it. I know he’s behind it. I am not this fragile normally, and I’m really starting to get angry. Here is what I’ve figured out so far, or at least what I think: These kids are so oppressed. Their land is not theirs, their parents pay taxes to a government not their own and never reap any benefits, and their people are regularly degraded, beaten down, and disrespected. My students naturally have a hard time trusting, and every time I am not in the classroom, they take it as a personal affront. Also, every day we pray for healing for those who are sick; and here is my testimony: the Christian teacher who is never healthy. God, I want to see miracles and healing for Your glory, so that others can see Your power! I want to be there for my kids in a way that proves Your love for them too. That’s my purpose.

So, my friends, pray. You were praying, but slowly we have felt the prayer covering diminish. Prayer is what we’ve been given to fight with, that and our sword, the Word. And I really need your help to win this battle. This may sound cheesy to some of you. I understand, but I’ve never been more serious in my life. I have been given the most amazing friends in the world. I love you all so much. If you need prayer, please don’t hesitate to tell me. Maybe prayers get to God faster over here. :)