Prayer Letter July 2013
Patience GrasshopperAs we considered what to write this month we realize it may sound much like some of our past updates. We are making baby steps toward the three main goals we have during our initial time here in Vienna – learning language and culture, settling in to our apartment and shepherding the Serve Austria team. We need patience to be happy with baby steps, as we want to be further down this road at this time. Pray Colossians 1:11-12 for us that we would be strengthened for all endurance with patience and joy.
Learning Language and Culture We started attending a German only church on Sundays and we are working with a tutor to get us ready for our first intensive language classes which will begin on August 5th. We have already had a couple of great conversations that have opened our eyes to some significant differences between American and Austrian views on one particular topic. Pray for wisdom to not just understand cultural differences, but to be open to changing the way we do ministry based on what we learn. Pray also that we are diligent with our studies, yet patient with our progress learning the German language. Settling into Our Apartment We may need patience for this area more than any other. It has been hot in Vienna which has sapped our energy to do all the projects that need to be completed. We are getting things done slowly, but we want to be settled. Pray for energy as we buy and hang drapes, finish building closets in our room, purchase and assemble the furniture for our dining room, spare bedroom, entryway and kitchen, as well as hang pictures. Shepherding the Serve Austria Team As we mentioned last month, we are studying together how to have authentic community. Please pray for patience as this process takes time. Pray for us as we facilitate this among a team that is currently diverse in experience and in ministry roles. This past week we had the privilege of spending a few days with our teammates and Denton Bible Student Ministries hosting a camp for Austrian Youth. Pray that God would call some to himself from this group. Also pray the team would start to identify the next generation of leaders among the youth. |
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Prayer Requests imbedded above!
As always, we can not thank God enough for you!
We praise Him for your love and friendship.
We praise Him for your prayers.
We praise Him for your financial support.
Even though we thank and praise God, please know .......
YOU are each appreciated.
We praise Him for your prayers.
We praise Him for your financial support.
Even though we thank and praise God, please know .......
YOU are each appreciated.