God's Sovereignty in the Timing of Everything - Jo Jowett
Jo runs SERVE7 as an independent Christian worker, offering support to local and global mission organisations in seven key ministry areas.
Jo reflects on her work so far this year and is thankful that overall, she has had a steady stream of work with a range of organisations, who work here in the UK but also in countries across Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America. This has provided a good balance of focus on local and global mission. Whilst at times the work ebbs and flows, the quieter periods have coincided with other challenges, not least, supporting her husband Mark’s parents. They very much see the grace of God and His sovereignty in the timing of everything.
The whole summer period was quite difficult, dealing with Mark’s mum’s declining health. Following a number of tests and latterly admission to hospital with a serious stroke, she went to be with the Lord on 28 August. His dad had to be admitted to emergency respite care due to his Alzheimer’s and other care needs. He is well settled now, but they are praying that his current temporary placement can transfer to permanency.
On a more positive note, some of the personal highlights in recent months have been celebrating Mark’s 60th birthday, and visits from Jo’s parents. Mark and Jo are both very much engaged with their small village church community, helping run multiple events, participating in church services, and generally being involved in just about every committee and planning group possible! They very much see their church and community involvement as part of their ‘mission’ where they live, and it has been a joy to build new relationships.
Give thanks:
For the opportunities Jo has had to serve a number of organisations so far this year.
For God’s grace to them as a family during what has been a very difficult few months.
For the way in which they have become embedded into their community, with many opportunities to serve and use their gifts.
Please pray:
That Jo would continue to see the Lord’s provision in terms of the resources and opportunities to serve God’s mission through SERVE7.
That God would use both Jo and Mark in every opportunity to serve their new church family and the wider community in Boroughbridge.
For grace and wisdom in the coming days as they adapt to a new situation without Mark’s mum and continuing to support his dad in care in Bridlington, as well as supporting Jo’s parents in N. Ireland.