Dear family and friends,
It has been a crazy month and we want to be real with you. October sent us on a whirlwind on all levels. It all started with going through culture shock. In the beginning of the month we experience a whole different level of the culture that we have not experienced before. As we got more involved with our Language Center with different projects, we saw a different side of the culture that frustrated us. We knew their would be cultural differences but this time it just hit us a little harder than usual. During the same week, we received the news that family members from both side's had heart attacks, but thankfully they are both doing well now. To top everything, one of our dearest friend from college passed away from stomach cancer. We received the news that she had limited time to live but it came faster than we anticipated. We were able to skype with her for a brief moment a few days before she joined the Angels, and the emotions from that talk made us very sad and more sensitive to all that was happening.
All these events really made us question and reevaluate what we felt called to do. We went from being very excited about the work we were doing to drastically thinking that we are better off home. After talking to our parents and our mentors, we were encouraged that this happens to all who are on the field. Life happens while we are away and there is no escape from going through culture shock. As a result of such crazy month we have been able to have many conversations about our time here and the next step. What we have learned this month is that planning for the future can be the wisest thing we can do when it comes to following after the dreams and visions G0d has given us. Our heart is for the nations and for the time being G0d has led us here. We are going to continue our work here with excellence and the same excitement as day one, if not with more excitement because of the progress we have made with those we have built relationships with. On the last day of the month, it felt like our Papa was giving us a gift. Our hearts were overfilled with His love for the people of this country, and specifically for our small group. He has entrusted us with the lives of 7 precious people and we couldn't be more thankful. Our Father is stirring the hearts of the young men and women here and the harvest is ready. We know it takes time to reap as we sow but that is what makes it worth it. Seeing the joy and living life with our small group bl3sses us beyond words. We have no doubt that our Father is working in their hearts so we are just pr@ying that He continues to have His way.
Logistics
There are logistical things we must put into consideration when thinking about long term. Our university's program that helps us with loan payments ends this May. We have been amazed by this opportunity to serv3 abroad while having this program take care of our loans. Unfortunately not all loans will be paid, we will still have debt. Certain things must take place in order for us to stay and do the work here and still make our loan payment. We are thankful for the opportunity that we had to go to a great school, receive a very good education, and meet each other there; but we know there is a cost and unfortunately the loans are there to reminds us of it. We have seen how our Papa has faithfully provided for us and we are trusting Him for His guidance on what is His will for us and how to wisely manage this next step. We ask you to join us in pr@yer as we look forward to the next step. We know money will never stop us from doing His will and as we serve Him here, we believe that He will provide for us. We are beyond thankful to those who encouraged, pr@yed, and helped us even without knowing our situation this month. Your pr@yers are appreciated and it makes an impact on this side of the world.
Much love to you,