The Queen of Sheba

As some of you know, my cat Corban has not returned to my care. He left on November 15, 2008 and has not been seen since. However, I do have a praise report. It seems God has given me a new little one to love - and she came with a story! Friday evening of last week I got a text message from my househelp's son (he speaks and writes a little English). Basically the text said they had an American cat for 13,000 rupees. I assumed for sale but I think I was wrong on this as later events unfolded. I texted back and said I would take the cat for free but wouldn't pay for it. A little while later some boys (relatives of my househelp) brought a Siamese cat. It was wrapped up in a jacket and at first I thought it was Corban - it looked just like him. I agreed to keep the cat but when I unwrapped it (later examination would find it to be a female), this cat was much smaller, younger, and had a crook in her tail. During the first couple of days I wasn't sure I would keep her because she was howling at night - and she has a loud and piercing meow. After a couple of days, she began to settle in and the crying/howling has stopped. At first I called her 'Shatana' - little devil - because she was howling so much. However, that is really not a polite name and would not do for long term - and she is really a sweet little thing. So, in consultation with my language teacher and my househelp, I have chosen the name 'Sheba' for her. Yes, as in 'The Queen of Sheba' -she may have to grow a little bit to fit into the monarchy but I am sure we will get there. Today I found out the full story (or as much of it as I will probably know) on this cat. Apparently, she was brought by a rich Pakistani family from America. The mother--in-law in the family did not like the cat so she was given away - and landed on my doorstep. I find that God has such a sense of humor. I tried so hard to bring my cats from America and it just seemed like there was a wall against this. Now God gives me an American cat and I didn't have to lift a finger - she literally was delivered to me. Also, if she was transported from America, that means that she was given a clean bill of health and all her shots (even though I don't have the papers). There is a verse in Ps. that says 'He gives blessings to His beloved in sleep' - such is this. And now I understand why she was crying - this is a strange new world for her and she is a stranger on these shores, much as I am. And just now, I looked up the meaning of the name 'Sheba' In Hebrew, it means 'promise.' Corbin meant 'sacrifice' and now I am reminded by five pounds of meow and fur that there is 'promise' in Him also.

Gypsy Life

All,

Just a quick post to let you know Christmas was wonderful. I left the US yesterday and am in Dubai right now. I will be here until January 15th and enshallah, will fly into Pakistan on Jan. 15th. Please keep me in your prayers! It's a gyspy life for sure!