Hi Everyone!
August was an adventure, so here we go!
Ministry
August is a bit slow once the summer camps end since school here doesn't start till the 15th of September, so this month is a time of rest and recovery for us in between camps and school. I had my language immersion week early in the month and it went better than I expected. I got to practice using my language with my host, workers at cafes, and at a small festival in the city where I stayed for my language week the week I was there. I learned a bunch of new words and it was very helpful getting to practice on my own and generally just be uncomfortable trying new things. Since this month is a bit slower more of time is supposed to be dedicated to learning, which has been helpful. I have gotten a lot more comfortable with using the language and understanding it, although there are still plenty of times I don't understand someone. I still don't know enough to have a Gospel conversation with someone in the language, so for the moment I still have those in English when the opportunity arises.
Personal
I have been working on getting myself into a more consistent rhythm of quiet times now that camps are over and I don't have numerous trips around the country like I have for most of the summer. It has been really nice and uplifting for my soul to be able to slow down in prayer and work on listening to God. I have started reading through Matthew again and it has been great having God highlight new things for me. I have gotten to learn new things about the people listed in Jesus ancestry and why God chose to list those people for us in scripture. It honestly has been so refreshing and life giving getting to spend time in scripture during my down time.
I have finally been able to join a climbing gym here, so I am hoping to make some friends and get to know people outside of my team. It has been great being able to get back into climbing after summer camps and having my teammates join me on occasion. Also, I have continued going on photo walks around here and it has been so much fun getting to see the beautiful parks and explore more of the city. I have gotten to see so many new places and it has helped me adjust to my surroundings here. There are so many hidden gems and cool places here which has made it so fun to walk around and explore in the evenings when the weather cools down.
Prayers
- That I continue to grow in my ability to understand and speak in the language.
- That I faithfully serve the kingdom and worship God with all my heart, mind, and soul.
- For God to soften and prepare the hearts and minds of the people I meet to be open to the Gospel and Salvation.
- That I remain focused on God through all the chaos and distractions of life.
- Good physical and spiritual health.
- For a consistent rhythm of quiet times.
- That I make local friends, both believers and unbelievers, and love them like Christ.