What’s gonna happen??? No, we aren’t referring to anything in the news these days… (Although we aren’t too sure about any of that either, except that we know the One who already knew the End at the very Beginning! And that’s pretty comforting.) On a much smaller scale, we are waiting to see what will happen with our visas and where we will be moving to in about 6 months. By the way, thank you to those who have prayed with us for our visa situation! It essentially remains the same except that we have been able to get 2 more one-month extensions which is allowing us to remain here. That means that—as far as we know—we still have a month and a half to be here and then we may end up with another extension, OR hopefully we can get our next visa which could be good for up to a year. On a similar note, there are others hoping to get visas to be able to come join us here, so please pray for those to be granted as well!
Another topic that we would appreciate prayer for is the upcoming decision regarding where to move to at the end of our first year, which we are already half-way through! The typical plan is for all new families to spend one year in our current location. Everyone begins the language and culture study process here, where we have easier access to language helpers, housing and other aides. After that, each family picks a region and transfers their families and studies to that area—which is closer to their final destination. So, within the next couple months we are asking the Lord to show us where He wants us to go.
On a day-to-day level, we are still focused on our studies which continue to progress. Of course there have been many interruptions and distractions that come from Covid issues (or just from life in general!) but overall we’ve been able to get consistent time to work. Our family is doing well but we often feel quite stressed and overwhelmed from the combination of everything—as we’re sure you can all relate to. We have a long way to go in learning to truly rest in the Lord through stressful times. Moriah is doing great and is a smart little lady! We love hearing all the new words and songs she’s picked up.
We had the opportunity to visit this cool Eiffel tower made entirely of bamboo! Moriah enjoyed her first zoo trip.
Praise
- That our current visa has been extended for 2 extra months.
- For how God has provided everything we’ve needed.
- For the consistent time we have to study in spite of the interuptions.
- That God is who He says He is.
- That Moriah has adjusted so well to life here.
Prayer
- For the language & culture to sink in well.
- For the souls of our friends and neighbors here.
- That we would learn to trust in and rest in the Lord in all circumstances.
- For wisdom in decisions regarding regional choice.
- For visas to come through.
Harold Hull says
Man, How exciting to be at this point after much training, time and effort! We are super excited for you guys and will pray for God to lead you to a specific region! We will also pray for peace and rest in your decisions and transitions that are to come very soon!!
But you said it, how comforting to know we serve a God who knew the End at the beginning and still pursued and continues to pursue us! If theres any comfort to find, it will be in our heavenly Father who is Always looking for our best interests and is always loving us!
Tyler Sanford says
Absolutely. It’s been a long process and we are still just at the very beginning. Haha! Thanks for the prayer and encouragement. Hope you guys are doing well!
Scott says
So thankful for your update – love you guys. God is good!