Bob Lane Newsletter (Winter 2026)

Greetings Dear Family and Friends, Former Team Members and Leaders:

When I woke up this morning, it was 2026! I realized that it would be the beginning of my 50th year of serving God with Teen Missions, and I soon would be 95 years of age! Betty served 45 years. I can’t thank God enough for the wonderful journey it has been. To use Betty and me, just ordinary people, to serve Him to do extraordinary things for Him. Pray for me so I will be a faithful servant this year. I thank God for the safety and health He has given me. I praise His Holy Name.

Wishing you all a very happy and healthy new year full of peace, love and joy of Jesus in your hearts.

I was blessed to be at my granddaughter’s for 2025 Christmas Eve party, and with my grandson Wesley and his family for Christmas Day. I held my first great, great, great grandson. I was Santa at the Teen Missions staff party and gave out presents to the 27 staff children and 21 Bible School students. It is a joyful time to have them sitting around me and looking into the happy faces when I give them these presents. It was my 20th year.

My great grandson is now 15 and has his driver’s permit so when we go fishing or anywhere, he gets to drive me. He likes to drive very much. I had my driver’s license renewed and they gave me seven more years. I will be over 100 when it runs out!

I had a few more blessings for 2025. A few former team members and leaders got in touch with me from 1976, 78, 91 and 92. I was very happy to hear from them. Thank you all for remembering me.

I was not too happy that I had to replace my two front teeth, which had just broken out. So I sang “All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth!”

January 3, I started off with another blessing—a surprise family reunion of 20 people. Robert, my oldest son, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, cousins, and Wendy, my first grandchild, came from California. The rest came from Tampa and Merritt Island. We all had a wonderful time loving each other and talking about old times. Some hadn’t seen each other for several years. Our God is so good to His children. 

My papaya tree is full with 40. My mango is full of buds. Pray the cold weather doesn’t kill them. I also have bananas, limes and tomatoes growing. I like having a small garden to watch them grow.

I am still learning to paint. My neighbor, who is an artist, told me I am improving. She is very helpful. I enjoy painting and giving them to staff and others.

The book is coming along well, but I remember more things to write about. Betty and I were blessed throughout our 70 year journey of loving each other, and how God used two ordinary people to do many extraordinary tasks with ordinary youth. Betty and I are honored that God used us to serve Him with Teen Missions. 

I have told you what has gone on with my life. I would love to hear from you and your family and what team you were on with Betty and me.  Come and volunteer sometime. 

Thanks for your prayers and encouragement. It means a lot to me.

Pray for my great-grandson Brennan. He is 15 and plans to go on his first TMI team. If you like, you could help him with his project expenses.  Thank you.

Pray for my health to stay strong so I can keep on serving God. 

Pray for my family who needs Jesus as their Saviour.

I never forget how much Jesus has done for Betty and me. God bless you and keep us all safe and well.

Love in Christ,

Bob Lane