The last two months have been full of highs and lows as is the norm living and serving in S. Asia. Due to our skipping a blog post in September, we are going to make this update a two parter. We sincerely hope you all enjoy and at least read the highlights of the last two months.
In September, Matt was able to lead a full-three day training in our city. This was different for him as most of his work and trainings are conducted outside of our city. Although the training had less attendees than initially anticipated, we believe that God brought the people there that he desired. Many of these were new in their own walks, which allowed for some great learning/discipling opportunities.
Three weeks later, there was a one day follow up meeting to see what God had done in and through the trainees since the training. Over forty people had heard the good news for probably the first time and at least three responded in belief/faith to follow. This was great news as God continues to make himself known here!
In addition to these opportunities, God has been opening doors for Matt to share right where we do our daily lives. The construction worker that has been mentioned before is now following and expressing a desire to want to go *swimming underneath the water along with the desire for discipleship and fellowship. Matt has also been sharing with a local cell phone shop worker, where he will spend a lot of time sipping on tea as he shares. Recently Matt gifted him a Bible in his mother tongue, which he greatly welcomed and is now reading.
Andrea has had some great opportunities within our neighborhood that at times she did not foresee. Although Elliot helps by opening many doors of opportunities, he at times can make it difficult in our own minds as any parent of a 19 month old feels at times. One day as Andrea was visiting with a neighbor she felt as if she could never share because she was chasing Elliot around the house. Just as she had that thought the woman started a conversation with Andrea that quickly turned spiritual, allowing her to share her faith. This neighbor is very interested and now reading the Bible in her mother tongue for the first time.
These months have brought their challenges as well. Most of you know that Matt was in a bad car accident early in September. Thankfully God protected him and he is almost at 100% from the physical effects of the accident. We all three have dealt with some sickness, but Elliot has continued with chest infections, which we believe are due to mold allergies. Regardless of our struggles/challenges, we know that God is ultimately sovereign and good!
Most recently we have been blessed with a couple of weeks away from our work as we took a vacation to Andrea's hometown in Argentina. This was a great way to relax and visit with family and friends, many of whom Elliot had never met. Upon returning our sending church,
the Summit, also hosted a two day retreat within S. Asia that was both refreshing and encouraging.
In tomorrow's post you will mainly find pictures from our trips and ways in which you can remember us in the coming month, so be sure to check it out!
