Hello from the Tropics! It has been an interesting time over the past week here in Far North Queensland! Tropical Cyclone Yasi hit the north east coast of Australia on Feb 2^nd.

It was a category 5 cyclone and was predicted to be the worst Australia has ever experienced. Cairns and the surrounding areas were in the direct path of the cyclone and were expected to take the brunt of the destruction caused by the cyclone. Many areas were evacuated.

Everyone was told to take precautions to save their home and possessions as best as they could, but that it wasn't likely that much would survive the storm. 

The Queensland Premier, (Governor), said to "expect unprecedented heartache". We learned afterwards that they had transported everyone from the hospital for their safety, but also so that the entire hospital would be available to handle the injured from the storm. They had brought 2,000 body bags into the Cairns area to be prepared for the massive loss of life. BUT GOD!!!

Christians all over Queensland, Australia and the world were praying that the storm would dissipate and NOT do the damage that was predicted. Cyclone Yasi did little damage to the Cairns region and there was no loss of life or injuries of any kind! God is faithful to His Word! He gave us the authority to speak to the wind and the waves and they must obey!

 We are grateful for all of you who were standing with us against this storm. After taking natural precautions, we talked of how Jesus was asleep in the boat when the storm arose and the disciples had to wake him. The storm was due to hit at 10pm, so after praying, we lay down and slept through it! Thank God for perfect peace that guards our hearts and minds!

Giving Thanks to God,

Stephen and Rachel