Saying Thank You

Before we get to our Literacy workshop, I wanted to share about an event that took place while my parents were here.  We decided to host a party at our mission to thank our host families.  It was the first time that we had done an event of the like that was solely for that purpose.  We had an amazing turn out not only of host families that are currently working with some of our missionaries, but also with those that have worked with us in the past.  We began the day with worship and then took a few minutes to thank each family with a gift.  We ended the morning with some discussion time as to how the process was going.  It was amazing to see the “experienced” hosts passing on insights to the newer host families.  Finally we enjoyed lunch together.  As I looked around the room I was so touched to see all these families who have invested so much into the lives of our missionaries.  It was encouraging to hear the testimonies at how God has been at work in the lives of people through this process.

God sent one more encouragement our way through this process.  The next Sunday at our church our host dad got up and shared about this event.  He shared about how important it is for the local church to come alongside the missionaries who are here and to help them as they learn culture and build relationships.  He talked about the change he has seen in us.  And he talked about how encouraged he was to be at this event and to see all the other families, churches and missionaries who are working together in this endeavor.  It is not very often that we get to hear such encouragement, but it was such a blessing to hear.  We praise God for each host family who has taken on this task, as it is not an easy task.  We are thankful for each missionary God has sent our way who is willing to change.  We are amazed at the work God is doing in and through this process not only in the lives of the missionaries, but also in the local church.  May he continue to work so that his kingdom can advance!