Dear friends and brothers,
We are here in Grand Rapids, MI for more than a month! It has been a fantastic experience! Some important points so far are:
FAMILY
Deborah has adapted very well and the language does not seem to be a problem for her. She started school this week! It was kind of hard to find a school (in fact it was very stressful! If you want to know the details of the adventure contact me!), But thanks to God everything went well!
Samuel is growing a lot and is a very quiet child who never complains, eats a lot and fills us with joy! He already has two teeth and now we have to be careful with his bites!
Marta is adjusting, full of things to do. In addition to taking excellent care of the house, children and her husband, she will have an English class, joined a Bible study for women and has also helped a bit in the Seminary food pantry. She still finds time to do some nails and make extra money to help at home!
SEMINARY
I am well ... well despite the amount of reading and work! Hahahah... I am happy to return to the academic world but I confess that the assignments here are bigger than I imagined. English has been a challenge as well. Please pray for my studies and that I will be able to handle the study factor as well as family!
FINANCES
Well... what to say? The dollar is higher than we thought! (4 BLR to 1 USD!) Do you know what that means? That we have a greater opportunity to depend on God to see what He can do! Unfortunately it is not easy to depend on God, but we have experienced this dependence every day and it has been a great challenge and joy. Nothing is missing! Please pray for the sale of our car in Brazil, a job opportunity here and more financial supporters in Brazil and especially here.
FUTURE
As the popular saying goes: "the future belongs to God." This is true but our role is to be prepared for what God has in the future. I believe everything we're learning here will be a terrific tool in the Lord’s hand. We have been praying about the place/mission or church we will be in two years. I know that there are still 22 months but I also know that time goes faster than we imagine. Pray for us! We desire clarity in our decisions and that God will deliver us from the sin of anxiety as we do not know the next steps for sure!
FINAL message
God has told us a lot through the Apostle Paul: "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the Circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. (Philipians 4.11-13)
We are grateful to God for the life of those who has blessed us here. I believe God will use the efforts of each one for His glory. As Paul himself says: “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58)
God bless you all!
In Christ and for Christ!
Eduardo, Marta, Debora and Samuel
