Our first friends in Peru are from Switzerland (lol). Minutes after arriving in Arequipa we found out we arrived a week earlier than our host home and institute expected, so arrangements were made for us to stay with Hans and Marta. A little bummed about another week of living out of suitcases, we loaded the taxi up at the airport and made our way to the district of Bancarios. We were warmly greeted by an older, white-haired couple wearing cute, felted vests. Little did we know “a week early” was actually all part of God’s plan and exactly what He knew we needed.
Hans and Marta have been serving as missionaries here in Arequipa for 23 years and have found ways to serve in a multitude of capacities. Even now, more than two decades into their mission, their eyes light up when they talk about being the hands and feet of Jesus to these people. They raised their family here, learned English and Spanish (their fourth and fifth languages…….), and left behind the Alps and so many other things, with joy, in order to obey God’s call. They’re the kind of people I’ll always want to be when I grow up.
Matt and I have left nearly every conversation and passing with them more filled and motivated than before. For example:
You know that episode of Spongebob Squarepants where Spongebob absorbs so much water he implodes? That’s about where I’m at, week one. I absolutely love it. There is SO much to take in; the language, culture, differences, people. I’m learning fast, however, it’s impossible to absorb it all at once. It’s a “little by little” process which I’m also learning fast, can be frustrating.
Anyways, yesterday Matt and I came home after language school and found Hans having a cup of coffee at the kitchen table. We filled him in on what we had spent all morning learning, which although seemed like so much (verbs and conjugations uufda), really was so little when we stepped back and looked at the big picture/reason we came to Peru. We expressed how far we have to go and how much we have yet to learn in order to begin ministry. Hans’ response was more dynamic than I’m proud to admit – “THIS, language, IS your ministry right now. Everything you are learning is for others. Think of it that way.” I’m really, really thankful that we were reminded of that this week. Although there is so much work in front of us, ministry starts now, in the preparation.
Also, a little God-story which I just think is cool: Hans and Marta are big-time coffee addicts (self-declared). Turns out, their very favorite coffee that they stock up on is from a small farm in SAN RAMÓN, literally across the river from where we will be living near the jungle. Of all the places.
We’re so thankful to be here and for all the seemingly little and big things God has provided to make Peru feel more like home…like temporary grandparents. Although we move in with our host family this Saturday, I’m sure there will be many more visits and games of Rummikub in the near future. In addition to advice on ministry in Peru, Hans and Marta have taught us tips to ease our stomach parasites, how to wash produce to make it edible, and the key to a balanced diet: Swiss chocolate in both hands.
All our love,
Sophie (and Matt)