Many people have asked us why kids raised in the mission field would need training for cross-cultural ministry. Well, I have taken 60 pages of typed notes so far. We have read or listened to dozens of books, and our skills are being sharpened by the combined experience of hundreds of pioneers who have gone before us. Some of them went into battle with unaddressed family or spiritual issues and, under great pressure, fell apart. Others experienced failure that looked at first like success. After many years of work and many baptisms, they realized the people were only adopting Christianity as a tool, and there were none spiritually mature enough to make more disciples. Our trainers want to spare us the heartache they have experienced.

With training over, it is now time for goodbyes. We have a few more precious weeks with family and some travel and packing. By the end of October, we will sprout wings and fly. The Great River People are longing for a power to break them free from sin. We will bring them the Bible, the inspired and authoritative word of God. We have a message of the soon return of Christ and new life in Him. The way we walk, the way we give, our marriage, and even the way we respond to persecution will be the proof that our message is true.

We would like to dedicate the years of our future service in our new home to all the churches, families, and loved ones whose sacrifice and giving bind them to the Great River People every day. We will miss you all. Thank you for your giving. Thank you for your never-ceasing prayers for us. We can’t wait to introduce you to your Great River spiritual children someday.

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