“Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire
cometh, it is a tree of life. Prov. 13:12
Dear Pastors, Praying Partners, Friends and Family;
A few days ago we called down to Colombia. Our paperwork has been processed by the lawyers and is in the hands of the “Ministry of Interior.” As with any government agency, it is hard to know what kind of time-table they are operating on. They are the ones that must approve the paperwork so that a letter of sponsorship can be granted to invite us into the country as missionaries. While this process has gone through several delays and has taken longer “up front,” it looks like we are getting close to the end. When approved, it will allow us to legally enter into Colombia under a Religious Visa for 3 years at a time, and it will be renewable from within the country. This will also give us the legal standing we need to perform ministry in the country without violating our visa. (After five years in the country as missionaries, we can apply for citizenship, as long as we have not remained outside the country for a period of 6 months or longer.)
Bro William Aya, (who will be the one responsible for our sponsorship) was unable to make his scheduled trip to the U.S. due to the loss of an unborn baby and financial situations which arose unexpectedly. Again, while it was not according to our timing or plans, the Lord is fully in control and we trust that He has a better way. I know the Ayas would greatly appreciate your prayers at this time.
Encouragement from Churches:
It has been a great encouragement to watch as the Lord has worked through a number of our supporting churches. We know that times have been financially difficult for everyone, and yet in the last couple of months, we have seen at least five of our supporting churches INCREASE their support level. WHAT A BLESSING and ENCOURAGEMENT to know that many of God’s people are not holding back, but rather they are pushing forward with renewed emphasis! THANK YOU to all who faithfully give, pray and participate, so that we can go. It truly is a privilege to serve our Lord and Savior!
Spending some time at our home church:
One blessing of our delayed departure has been the time of bonding with our home church. Truly we can say our time here has knit our hearts in a greater way with our church family. We feel privileged and thank the Lord for giving us such a supportive and solid home church!
Thank each of you for your faithful prayers!
Prayer Challenge:
Andrew Bonar defined fasting as abstaining from anything that hindered prayer.
Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting. Mt 17:21
