Ready in 3 hours, an unexpected trip to town.

Our boys having fun teaching the local kids Duck, Duck, Goose.

 

Illiness

Yes, we did write recently to let you all know not to expect any news from us until the end of September at the earliest.  At the time, that was the plan, but when an unknown virus took hold of the family and held on for a couple of weeks, our mission doctor decided to have us come out so that he could make sure nothing really serious was going on.  So, now you get an update sooner than we promised.  As for our illness, most of us are much better now.  Elias is really the only one with continuing symptoms and we expect that he will be recovering by the end of the week. Thanks for praying for us in these things.

 

Mesi men and women are still working hard to learn to read and write. With over 200 students through our literacy school, we have quite a pool of men and women who are willing to help their friends and families learn this important skill.

 

Milestones

You might also remember that we were building toward the first communion in the Mesi church – in fact, because we had to come out last week, we missed the celebration. Even in missing that celebration, we see the Lord’s hand building His church in Mesi-land. We see Him drawing out the Mesi believers to be dependent on Him and His truth rather than on us missionaries and our knowledge and wealth. What a joy to have our friends calling us up and telling us about how they are remembering the Lord and His work on their behalf. Please praise the Lord with us for the growth in the Mesi-church.

 

Other things

Since we are feeling much more healthy this week, Nate is planning on hiking back into Mesi-land this weekend. The rest of us will be staying out on our mission base until our annual conference in early October. It is important for Nate to head back into the bush because we only have about 2 weeks left to be together with both of our co-workers before the Hostetters head home to figure out some medical issues. We are seeking the Lord together for direction for the work and those discussions are best done in person. Please pray for Nate’s travels and for the rest of the family as we spend a couple of weeks apart.  School will continue for Elizabeth and the boys.

 

Thank you!

We want you all to know that we are so grateful for your prayers and care for us. Between recent illness and the intensity of the work in the bush, we have been feeling more than ever our fragility and need for the Lord do His work. As you pray, please remember to thank Him for His grace and sustenance.

 

Nate for us 5