Tomorrow is Paul’s 70th birthday. We don’t mention this because we’re expecting a gift or even birthday wishes on social media, but because we should celebrate milestones.

You might have heard Paul say that we live ten thousand little, virtually unnoticed moments. But every once and a while, we get to celebrate big moments in life that are genuinely significant—moments to reflect upon God’s faithfulness and marvelous provision, often in the most unexpected ways.

Yes, Paul is 70 years old tomorrow, but he has the energy, vision, and motivation of a much younger man!  When we contemplate the millions of miles traveled to countries around the world and the difficulty of a season of illness, we can’t help but celebrate this day.

So, in a unique Wednesday’s Word, we want to celebrate this milestone by expressing our gratitude:

First, to our Lord and Savior for years of his faithfulness, grace, provision, daily mercies, forgiveness, strength, and blessings beyond measure. We are frequently taken by surprise at the unexpected trajectory of Paul’s life and ministry, including the faithful team God brought his way. He wouldn’t be where he is without the incredibly gifted and wonderful people surrounding him.

Second, we express our gratitude to you! Our deepest thanks are owed for your prayers, attending a conference or viewing a livestream, purchasing a book or video, and the generosity of your donations through the years.

If Paul’s ministry has blessed you at any given time through the spoken word and writing, celebrate with us. Paul only ever speaks and writes about things he desperately needs himself.

Lastly, we will be forever indebted to our dear children: Justin, Ethan, Nicole, and Darnay, who have lovingly responded to our weaknesses and supported us on this journey. They are our priceless jewels!

Our journey continues to be a mystery to us and unquestionably the result of God’s orchestration and doing. God hasn’t called us to predict the future, and he hasn’t asked us to guide ourselves. He has promised us that tomorrow is in his hands and that as we surrender our lives to him and obey him, he will lead us where he has chosen for us to go.

So, we live with mystery, but with hearts at rest because we know that the One leading us is faithful, loving, and good. This is the confidence that has shaped our life, marriage, parenting, and ministry.

With hearts of gratitude for you all, and to God be the glory,

Paul and Luella Tripp
November 11, 2020

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Traces of your
hand,
traces of your
heart,
traces of your
plan,
traces of your
mercy,
traces of your
power,
traces of your
wisdom,
traces of your
faithfulness,
traces of your
tenderness,
traces of your
forgiveness,
traces of your
sacrifice,
traces of your
rescue,
traces of all
that you are, and
traces of all
that you have done for us
are all over us,
and we will
never, ever again
be what we were
but will be
what only you could make
us be.
Your imprint is
our rescue,
our hope,
our future,
our life,
our fulfillment, and
our redemption.
Your fingerprints are on us,
and we are
glad.

Reflection Questions

1. What is a milestone or achievement that you have recently celebrated or accomplished?

2. How does this big life moment reveal the goodness, generosity, and mercy of God in your life? Write an extensive list!

3. Have you, even for a moment, been tempted to take credit for what only God could produce in your life? Why is this a dangerous thought?

4. Apart from the Lord, who else are you indebted to? Have you thanked and recognized them recently? Express gratitude with specificity today.

5. Are you known for encouraging and celebrating others? How can you spread the joy of the Lord by celebrating the milestones and achievements of your neighbors, co-workers, and friends, particularly those who do not know the Lord?