Muchos Cambios…You may remember seeing these words three years ago as our family set out to begin a new journey living and ministering on the Isla de Encanto—the Island of Enchantment known as Puerto Rico. We left the States to work in Puerto Rico with MTI. We hoped that God would do many things in and through us, and that is exactly what has happened. God has taught us so much about ministering to people of other cultures, lifestyles, and languages. He has continued to shape our heart and desire to reach the nations for Him.
There are many changes happening now three years later both in our family and also with the work in Puerto Rico. Our vision however, has only grown stronger as God has given us clear direction in how He wants to use us to build His Kingdom.
The program in Puerto Rico has been successful in training missionaries and sending them out to continue their ministry in different parts of the world. The seminary classes and hands on ministry experience has shaped everyone that has played a role in what God has begun in Puerto Rico. There will be a small team continuing to plant a church in Puerto Rico and also continuing to develop the training programs that have begun here. However, we feel that God is calling us into a new and exciting opportunity to reach the nations.
We left the States sure that we would be moving to China after our time in Puerto Rico was finished. Here we are 3 years later still convinced of the need to reach the Asian nations, but we have learned more about a very effective way for us to reach these people. After much prayer and thought, we are currently pursuing work with International Students in the States. We were in the States for a while this summer to investigate possible opportunities. We feel even more passionate now, after our training in Puerto Rico, to reach the nations that are living in our own backyards. So, we began pursuing a new position state-side. We were hopeful that we would have very clear direction by the end of the summer, and that’s exactly what God has done. We have returned to Puerto Rico to pack up our things and say “good – bye” to those that have enriched our lives over the past 3 years. We are very thankful for the work God has had for us in the past, but we are also very grateful for the opportunity that is now in our future.
After packing up here we will be returning to Wedowee, AL on Sept. 1st. We will spend the month of September preparing to move to Montgomery, AL. We will begin working with International Exchange Organization (IXO). This organization is committed to building relationships through business and educational exchanges in China. www.IXOonline.org
One of the many things we have learned from our experience here in Puerto Rico is that Ben is a “hybrid” of sorts. Which means that he enjoys administrative tasks and projects, but does not thrive being behind a desk from 8-5. He wants to be involved in the lives of people as well as use his administrative gifts. This job will allow him to do both administrative projects as well as International Student Ministry. It is very exciting!!! I (Nikki) am looking forward to really investigating ministry with international students because our home will be a prime place for ministry which will allow us to use our gifts as a couple to reach the nations. We will also be involved in short-term trips and teams going to China. Ben has this saying that seems to describe this new opportunity perfectly; “we’ll be fishing on both sides of the pond.”
We are very grateful for all of you that have invested in us! Thank you for being patient with us and praying for us over the summer as we really sought out what the Lord would have for us. Please continue to pray not only for our upcoming transition, but for our good-byes here in P.R. We will be saying good-bye to dear friends locally, and also on our team. We are looking forward to what God will do with each of us as we move into new ministry opportunities. We know that God is committed to the people here in Puerto Rico, and we consider it a privilege to have experienced life in Latin America. God has taught us many things, and those things will be very valuable as we embark on this next journey.
We also hope to spend the month of September visiting supporters, friends, family, and speaking at churches to update all of our recent changes. Please e-mail us or call us with any questions you might have about what the Lord has done and is doing.
It's so exciting to hear how the Lord has and is moving your family and that you'll be able to work with the Chinese...a people who are still very much a part of my heart as well! We'll be praying for your transition over these next few weeks.
Wow! A lot of changes! This sounds like a good move for everybody, and boy, am I jealous about the "short termers" to China bit! And CONGRATULATIONS! on child #3. I think Nate and I both would say that not only have we enjoyed our third the most, but she has taught us to enjoy the other two more. We'll be praying.
3 comments:
It's so exciting to hear how the Lord has and is moving your family and that you'll be able to work with the Chinese...a people who are still very much a part of my heart as well! We'll be praying for your transition over these next few weeks.
Wow! A lot of changes! This sounds like a good move for everybody, and boy, am I jealous about the "short termers" to China bit! And CONGRATULATIONS! on child #3. I think Nate and I both would say that not only have we enjoyed our third the most, but she has taught us to enjoy the other two more. We'll be praying.
we love you guys!!!
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