Layne Archive | jon and layne heller

Moving!

A Layne Post

We have had intentions of writing a proper newsletter, but due to procrastination and “busyness” we have not. Hang on to your hats, though, it is coming!

I am going let you in on some news though, because it is coming up too quick; we’re moving! This month! There are a couple of different reasons which have led us to this decision. For one, the rent prices in the city are climbing each year, so we have decided to move to a suburb called Matola where the prices are cheaper. Secondly, because of the project we want to do for the hospital patients, we need to be in a location where we have the freedom to renovate and operate how we desire. The house we have decided to rent is actually owned by the pastor of our church, who is in full support of our Casa Ahavá project.

When we approached our landlord about our contract ending in a year’s time, we knew the rent would increase; it is the way of things around here. What we did not see coming was an added $500 a month. We staggered. While we had chatted previously in the past about moving, each time I would end on verge on tears. “I’ve worked so hard!” “I want to call somewhere home!”

This time, however, as the landlord exited the front gate and we took a seat on the couch, we had peace; it was time to at least look for other options. Within a couple weeks this home in Matola fell in our laps. After a quick walk through, I was sold. It is perfect for where we are at right now. We have signed a three year contract with a locked price, cheaper than our current rent, which gives us the comfort and flexibility to begin working towards Casa Ahavá.

The two flats in the back of the house in Matola are in better condition than the ones we were looking to renovate here in the city, meaning it will take less time and money to become operational. There are still other barriers we will face, but when the Lord is for us, who can stand against us?

So we strap on our work boots and get ready to move in and make the next place ‘home’ (In my book: paint on the walls, colorful curtains, and a few personalized canvases.)

We appreciate your prayers for us during our transition and for wisdom and open doors and we continue to pursue Casa Ahavá.

July 5, 2011

Layne

Around the house, Mozambique

7 comments

Jonathan Heller: Husband and Father

A Layne Post

Jonathan Heller has been the most caring, loving, romantic, passionate, strong, and wise husband. I know many people would say these things of their husbands, but I honestly think I have the best out there. I would follow Jon anywhere. Really, I would. And I have. With him by my side, I feel safe and secure. Much of that is because I am able to rely on Jon’s wisdom and guidance that comes from our heavenly Father. He makes it easy to submit to his spiritual leadership. I respect Jon in every way; he is an example of Christ to me. I knew when I married him that I loved him, but I had no idea what was to come.

With each year that has passed I have fallen deeper in love with him. When Anaya was born I knew things may change a bit, and they have… for the better! (Who knew there was so much better?!) The day she was born he took to her like a natural. He is so patient and gentle, nurturing and kind. My heart becomes so full when I listen to him read and sing to her, when he prays over her. Anaya looks to her Daddy with awestruck eyes. I can already see the special bond she has with him, and I love it! Fatherhood suits him well.

Anaya is blessed to call Jon her Daddy, as I am to call him my husband.

Father's Day 2011

Happy Father’s Day

&

Happy 3^rd Anniversary,

Jonathan Heller!

June 19, 2011

Layne

Personal

5 comments

Give Light

A Layne Post

Her name means ‘Give Light’. For months this little eight year old was shy and introverted. I would try to talk with her, compliment her painted toes and colorful skirts, bring Anaya by her side, etc. but I could not get much of a response. I remember thinking how sad she looked and feeling frustrated I could not break through the wall she had surrounded herself with. She seemed ashamed of the large tumor protruding from her eye, even though she was, and is, surrounded by people in the same situation. Still I tried; reminding her that I thought she was beautiful.

A couple weeks ago something changed. I do not know why, but she chose to open up to me. She didn’t have to; they never do, yet she chose, and I consider myself the privileged one. She was receiving treatment when I arrived at her bedside, and her hand reached out. My heart leapt as I grabbed it. The time passed while I sat in her bed, rubbed her arms and legs and traced her little hands. She would tickle me, slap my hands and giggle as I responded. Every now and then she would rest her head in my cupped hand, and I would take the opportunity to kiss her precious head. When it was time to go, she begged for me to stay. That is the hardest part. I promised my return and gave a few more kisses.

Now, every time I arrive, her face ‘gives light’. Her tumor is growing; however, she is more beautiful than ever, this precious eight year old girl. I do not know what the future holds for her. If I relied solely on my experiences, it does not look good. I have already cried many tears for her suffering. May the Lord be merciful.

Thank you for your support, which allows me to sit with an eight year old girl suffering in a hospital bed, to try somehow to be the touch of our heavenly Father. Thank you for the impact you are making here in Maputo, Mozambique.

His love always wins.

June 5, 2011

Layne

Hospital Ministry

7 comments

Maninha

A Layne Post

Maninha has a 3 year old little girl named Tanya. Tanya is talking more and more and loved chatting with her Mom on the phone. Maninha had been away from home (here at the hospital) for six months and was growing weary from being away from her family. She always loved seeing Anaya and watching her play, probably imagining her own little girl and the changes happening in her absence.

Her last round of Chemo took it’s toll. Arriving at the hospital, I turned the corner into her room, and there she lay. She didn’t need to say anything; I could see it, she was sick. The sweat was beading on her forehead. “Mae de Anaya, estou mal.” (Mom of Anaya, I am bad.) I assure her I can see that, grab her hand and begin praying for relief from her pounding headache and fever.

The treatment ended, and she was weak. Without the will to eat, she became quite fragile. She concluded she didn’t have the energy to fight anymore and decided to go home. This process takes a couple of days, arranging transport and whatnot. She was unable to sleep, becoming somewhat delirious. During her last days in the hospital she just wanted to be held. She reminded me much of a little child, wanting to be cradled, not wanting to be alone. Scared. Scared of what was coming. She would whine through tears how she would never see Jon, Anaya, and me again. I assured her, with her head resting on my chest, that we would remember her, that we would pray for her, that we love her.

She is home now. Would you pray with us? Would you pray for Maninha during the days to come? Would you pray for Tanya during the little time she has with her mom, and for coming years without her?

Thanks for joining with us, for partnering in this ministry.

May 23, 2011

Layne

Hospital Ministry

8 comments

One and a Half Years

Yesterday I heard my husband talking with his mom; he was saying, “The last time we saw Joe and Evie (our brother and sister-in-love) was when they were getting into their car on the way to their honeymoon; we’ve never spent time with them married!”

How the time passes.

We have recently passed the one and a half year mark. I feel it shows most in the children, which is one of the hardest parts about being here… missing our time with our nieces and nephews. Here is a look at the changes since we’ve been gone.