A couple of months ago Cheryl and I were having dessert with a pastor friend and his wife. One of the questions we were asked that evening was, “What are the challenges you are facing?” As we get ready for our return to Indonesia at the end of July, we want to begin sharing these challenges with you. To be honest, for the most part the immediate challenges we face in light of our return are financial. We are also facing educational, family and teaching challenges.
I’d like share some of the financial challenges ahead. We ask you to pray for these challenges.
1. On field debt: Because of having to make two trips to Indonesia during this furlough and ongoing paper work cost in Indonesia we still have debt on our field account. We have been working at reducing this and have it down to just over $1500. We would like this cleared before we get back to Indonesia.
2. Visa paper work cost: We have begun the process of getting visas for Cheryl, Cody and Cheyenne. The first step was getting new passports for the kids. Once they arrive we can send the information to Indonesia for the visa process. They will be getting temporary visas that will have to be renewed several times before they can be converted to the regular kind. In September my visa will need renewal. This will all incur cost against our field account.
3. Flights back to Indonesia: We are planning on leaving for Indonesia near the end of July. We have been corresponding with travel agents. Ticket cost for our family will be around the $4,000
4. Home school cost: Cheryl will be teaching both kids. We will need to purchase this year’s curriculum for both kids.
5. New Clothes: This is always something we face going back. Kids’ size clothes are easy enough to get in Indonesia. On the other hand, clothes for Cheryl and I are not as available. Because of this we will need to get some needed clothes that can last the long haul of 4 years.
6. Home addition: On my last trip to Indonesia we were given permission to add on to the house we live in on campus. The plan is a 6 meter by 4 meter addition. The main purpose of this is to provide a classroom for the Cheryl and the kids to do school. We will need to move a bathroom and it will also provide a guestroom. The cost for this will be $6000. This also includes replacing an almost 20 year old metal roof on the whole house.
As I list these, it becomes overwhelming. Just like Israel felt when Goliath was challenging them for 40 days straight. Then God brought David along to deal with Goliath. We are asking you, our ministry partners to pray with us concerning these challenges. If you would like more detailed information concerning these needs, please email us with your questions.
Thank you for partnering with us. It will be exciting to watch together how GOD is going to work.
Craig for…