One of the big lessons we have been learning lately is the need to walk, not so much in the practical sense (though that is good to do) but more in the sense of walking alongside people as they find their way in life.
The mission statement of FH talks about walking with churches, lead- ers and families in overcoming all forms of human poverty by living in healthy relationship with God and his creation. However, up until recently we have never really grasped what this means.
We are gradually becoming aware of how key this principle is in all aspects of life, family, church and work. If we think of the example of Jesus, He impacted and touched the lives of thousands during his time on earth, yet he selected just a few to walk with closely. They walked together though good and bad times, with opportunities to try and space to fail. Yet Jesus was always there to help pick them up again and teach them new things as well as re-teaching some of the old things. He kept walking with them and by doing so had a far reaching impact on the whole world.
By walking with Jesus, the disciples got to see both his godly and human side such as times when he was hungry, tired, happy and sad. When we walk closely with people they get to see a lot of our human side, but also hopefully some of our more godly side too which challenges us to be consistently living up to Gods standards. Walking with somebody is not an easy quick fix solution, it takes time and a lot of energy. Yet it is also very effective.
Just as we have been seeking to walk with individuals and families here in Bolivia both through the local church and in the FH office, so you too have been important in walking with us on this journey. We could not have gotten this far without your prayers, support and encouragement, and so we are very thankful to you for that.
October sees the end of our first 3 year contract with FH. Through much prayer we have decided that it is right for us to extend that contract for a further 3 years or until God says otherwise.
Thank God for:
- Being able to renew our contract
- Good friendships
- Safe travelling
Ask God for:
- Rest, we are both feeling really exhausted, made worse by the fact that neither of us are sleeping well at night
We are very much excited and looking forward to what new things God has to teach us next.
With much love
Ed, Sarah & Alana
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