My last two posts read more like a devotion or Bible study but rest assured; we are still focused on reaching Croatia with the message of the gospel. Our time on furlough has been productive both financially and spiritually. We have been able to look back at our experience on the field for the sake of learning. This "personal study" of the life of Joseph has helped me keep everything in proper perspective.
While things were somewhat different from what we expected; the end result is a positive outlook. Overall our first term has kept us humble for every accomplishment was by God's grace alone through the work of the Holy Spirit. We are actually thankful for the each and every difficulty because it opened doors of opportunity or put us in a better position to be witness for Christ.
Some of the lessons learned are these:
Our inability to use the language as we had hoped enabled us to develop strong relations with our neighbors. They have been happy to help and we have come to trust them. We have shared the gospel with them repeatedly and believe that in God's timing we will see them come to trust Jesus as Savior.
We knew it would be difficult to see people come to trust Christ as Savior. So much so that at times we became weary of the message being rejected. However, the Holy Spirit is at work. It was wonderful to see Him work in the heart of those who did take that step of faith with us.
God is providing for us financially as we have seen an 11% increase in support over where we were this time last year. Clearly there is a work to be done in Croatia and we are supposed to be a part of it.
Thanks for your prayers for us during this time of furlough. Each day that passes brings more excitement about our return in October. Stay tuned for more lessons from Joseph. I pray that you too will learn from his example and follow the Lord's leading for your life - especially if it includeds you coming to Croatia to work with us.
