Dear Supporters,
I trust this letter finds you basking in God’s blessings. As we welcome cooler days, I’ve been savoring the crispness in the air that marks the transition from summer’s heat.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the incredible outpouring of love, prayers, and support that you’ve extended to me and my family during this challenging time. The two Celebration of Life services for Jim last month were deeply moving and truly honored both his memory and God’s grace. Thank you to everyone who traveled to attend the services and to those who joined us online. I’m especially grateful to the New Life Church community for their compassionate service during the ceremonies.
As I mentioned previously, I’ve moved my belongings into storage and am currently staying with Jessica and her family. My house is on the market and is expected to close before September 13th. Jessica and Nick have found a beautiful new home on 1.76 acres that will accommodate us all, and they hope to close on that property by the end of this month.
With the move looming, the task of packing and preparing has been quite daunting, and it has been further complicated by both me and Nick contracting Covid. We had to quarantine to prevent spreading the virus, which left Jessica managing everything from caring for baby Riker to handling household responsibilities and school runs. Thankfully, I’m recovering and able to offer more assistance, but
we’re all feeling the strain. We would greatly appreciate your prayers for strength and health as we navigate the upcoming months.
Please note that our mailing address for both Outward Focused International and personal correspondence has changed to:
P.O. Box 2775
Clarksville, IN 47131
Earlier this year, Jim sent a copy of his book, “Treasure Hidden in Darkness,” to my nephew, who is currently serving time in a Florida prison. The impact was profound—my nephew began sharing the book with other inmates, who, in turn, requested more copies. He had his Mom send him several copies to share. He also provided a copy to the prison chaplain, who read it and was so moved that he reached
out to request a case of books for the chapel library.
I recently received an encouraging email from the prison chaplain: Greetings! A short story and then a request please. A few months
ago, an inmate asked me to read a book written by his uncle, ‘Treasure Hidden in Darkness.’ I’ve since encountered other inmates influenced by the same book, and a missionary mentioned its positive impact as well. After reading the book myself, I’m requesting a case to
place in our Chapel library. If possible, please send them to the following address.
In response, I’ve arranged to send 100 copies of Jim’s book to the prison. Additionally, I’ve asked the chaplain to share information about Jim’s book with other chaplains, hoping to extend its reach even further. It’s thrilling to witness how one book in an inmate’s hands can lead to many others discovering God’s truths.
This experience reminds us that we never truly know how God will use what we share with one person to impact many others. It is a powerful testament to the importance of being attuned to His guidance in our daily lives.
May God richly bless the work of your hands as you serve Him wherever you are.
In His service,
Diane Newsom
Executive Director