| “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps.” – Prov.16:9 Recently we realized that we have a bit more waiting to do until our team comes together. So we began to wonder, “what would God have us do during this time?” We did not have to wonder for long, because we found out about an urgent need they had at the missionary school here for an ESL teacher! They have never had need for that at the school before, but they do this year. We don’t think it is a coincidence that God had us available to serve there at this time. (Karissa’s degree is in ESL Education). So, our plan for this next school year is to move to the main mission center (about 20 minutes from where we live now). Matt will continue to teach junior high Bible, and Karissa will teach ESL and also 4th/5th grade Language Arts and Social Studies. You want to know another cool thing that God did? The house that Matt spent a lot of time this past year renovating is the house that we will be living in! We are excited to be able to fill a much needed support role for now- it really does take a team to reach the lost here in PNG. Our teaching at the school will help enable all of the pilots, doctors, office workers, etc. who live at the main mission center to continue doing their work and enabling church planters to stay in their locations. Our long term goal is still, Lord willing, to go to a tribe that has never understood the gospel, and leave them with a mature church that will reach others, that will reach others. Please be praying for us as we transition to this new ministry role, and for the many decisions ahead. Till all know, Matt, Karissa, Ty, and Wyck |
| Thank you so much for your prayers about the proposed changes to work permits here in PNG! Here is an update about it: “We are grateful for the prayers of God’s people as we have been meeting with governing officials regarding the new rules for foreign workers (including missionaries) coming to Papua New Guinea. In these meetings, we felt that our voice was heard and understood for the most part, although that does not necessarily guarantee changes will be made. We were able to speak with one voice along with representatives from many other like-minded missions organizations, which was very encouraging. Over the next several weeks, the government is going to be considering a proposal jointly submitted by us and these other organizations. Please pray that our proposal will be accepted! Also pray that we will be able to arrange meetings with the appropriate decision makers in government over the next few weeks to make our appeals to them in person. We are grateful that this situation is in the Lord’s hands, and that he is sovereign over decisions made by rulers and governments. Ultimately, our prayer is that God’s truth continues to go out through the country of PNG and that God’s name is glorified.” Please pray: – For the work permit situation in PNG – For our family as we transition to a new place and new roles – That we will be able to sleep well in our new house (it is quite close to a noisy road) – For our future, that God would bring us our team and our tribe within the next year Praise God: – For His leading in hard decisions – That He knows just what we need – That NTM has been able to meet with governing officials – He has given us peace and joy amidst changes |