Our first year with AFM—training, fundraising and stepping into the unknown—reshaped us in ways we never expected. Looking back, five lessons stand out clearly.

First: Ministry is a family calling, not a parental one. Our children have proven to be the most adaptable, gracious teammates we could ask for. They lean in when things get hard, forgive quickly when stress spills over, and remind us that mission life is not something we do around them, but with them.

Second: The three angels’ message is not our mission—it is God’s. He is simply searching for willing hearts ready to lay down self and step into His work. The invitation is wide open.

Third: A love for missions is not installed the moment you graduate from mission school. It flows from Christ Himself. Age, background, education and experience are not prerequisites—obedience is, as with the woman at the well (John 4). We may feel unsure of where to start or unqualified to speak, but sharing our personal encounter with Jesus is enough. When Christ is lifted up, He does the drawing (John 12:32).

Fourth: Every true reformation and revival in history shares one common thread—prayer. Heaven stands ready to act, and prayer is the channel that allows Christ and His angels to work on our behalf.

Fifth: Missions are never a solo effort. If missionaries are the hands or feet, they are powerless without the rest of the body: donors, office staff, prayer partners and even those who whisper a quick prayer while reading these articles during breakfast or family devotions.

Thank you for making this the most exciting year of our lives. On January 7, we submitted our visa applications, beginning a 90-day wait. Please pray that God’s will directs the timing as you pray for the people of Czechia. We trust He has already gone before us, preparing both the way and their hearts.

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