The adventure has only just begun. We've been blessed with two weeks of training - the first week with about 18 other interns preparing for their internship to various locations. We were able to do some team building, culture and language learning... along with some fun. :-) Not to mention the preparation time being in the Texas heat and investigating all of the new critters... from spiders, fire ants, scorpions and the like.
During the first week, we had some amazing devotional times together. One morning we discussed what the Kingdom of God is, and how we might see it expand throughout the summer. Another morning we explored John 15 and shared what stood out to each of us, one of the things that we found is that in verse 16, Jesus told His disciples that He chose them and commissioned them to go and bear fruit. We are to do likewise. Another morning, we went through the alphabet sharing words that described God, or words that we could use to praise Him with. We were able to get some of those characteristics on paper which we'll have to share with you at a later date.
This last week we've had a wonderful, though jam-packed time with more general training with individuals interested in PBT - we've been learning about the various fields PBT is working in, and others that are opening up. We've discussed endeavors that the missionaries have experienced - whether it be transitions, culture stress, or the blessings of spiritual growth. There have been times to chat with missionaries who are preparing to return to the field and others who have recently returned for their furlough time. God is so good.
We'll be leaving tomorrow for the bigger adventure in Africa. We are in the midst of cleaning the mobile home we've been living in for the past two weeks, and finalizing packing. Praise God for such a wonderful place to stay.
Prayer list:
Praise God:
For the ability that we've had to learn and grow in preparation for the internship.
For the wonderful time in Dallas to meet and chat with interns and missionaries from various fields.
For the opportunity to serve Him and further explore His calling on our lives.
Prayer requests:
Please pray that our team is able to experience unity throughout the trip, and that we can gel with the team that is already on the field.
Please pray that we might be able to learn the trade language quickly and be able to communicate the Gospel message clearly to the people of Africa through our actions and words.
Please pray that we would find open doors in the hearts of the people we will be ministering to.
Thank you for your partnership with us in praying for, encouraging, and supporting us as we seek to follow God's will and make disciple-makers throughout the world. Thank you also for the opportunity that we have to pray for you.
Blessings,
Matt and Beth
Matt & Beth -
ReplyDeleteYou are on your way and probably there by now, but know that I am praying for you both, your trip and your mission everyday. It sounds like your first two weeks have already been a blessing with more to come. I look forward to getting your updates. Stay safe & see you soon.
Dora
My Brother and Sister,
ReplyDeleteWe are so proud of you and honored to partner with you. The Lord will richly bless your time in Africa and He will be very present as you journey this leg of your calling.
I am trying for the third time to send you a message. I have had trouble trying to post, but I think I might have it figured out. I have been praying several times a day for you. I hope things are going well and that you are well. Destiny is in Iowa and will be going to the Air Academy next weekend. She is excited about going to school in Iowa. It is in between the size of the Moberly school and Fayette school. I knoe God is using you in powerful ways there. Please pray for Destiny adapting to her new situation. I will post again later. In His Service, and yours.
ReplyDelete