First, I wanted to say I'm very thankful for all the prayers for our family during this adjustment to living in Bolivia. I have to confess that the first week or so we were here, I was shocked by such massive change in culture. I know that Carla has shared a lot of the culture with you on other blogs. Psalm 27:14 says "Wait on the Lord, be of good courage and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait I say, on the Lord." He has definitely strengthened my heart during this time. The Lord has drawn us together as a family. Which in turn has challenged has challenged Carla and I as parents to be more aware of our children's hearts. He is such a mighty God. He knows just what we need! On the way here we spent an afternoon in Guadalajara, Mexico with our dear friends, Steve and Linda Montgomery. Steve Challenged me to be a learner. We have much learning ahead of us!
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| Steve and Linda with daughter Elizabeth and her husband Pepe | , Emma & Caleb |
I will leave you with this thought the I read in one of Isobel Kuhn's books. It seemed very fitting for our transition here. "Nothing strengthens us so much as isolation and transplantation...under the wholesome demand his soul will put forth all her native vigor. It may not be necessary for us to withdraw from home and friends; but we shall have to withdraw our heart's deepest dependance from all earthly props and supports, if we are to learn what it is to trust simply and absolutely on the eternal God."
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| Beautiful Cochabamba |
So happy that you were able to spend an afternoon with the Montgomery & Martinez families during your move south! We are praying for all of you during this time of adjustment, learning, and great opportunity. "Every day with Jesus is sweeter than the day before!" Praying you will grow ever closer as a family and ever more able to be used for His glory.
ReplyDeleteMuch love in Him, Eric & Sally Oppliger
Way to go, Rudi! I am so glad you joined the POST! Thank you for sharing the scenic Cochabamba photo. It is good to see Liz and her family and Steve and Linda, also.
ReplyDeleteI will pray that your tongue will come untied when you begin to speak Spanish with the Bolivians. They will most likely be very helpful and proud of you for trying--and you might give them some good laughs, which is healthy for them!!!
I love you and look forward to reading more of your posts!
Paula
The Spanish will come! I promise! Just be brave and practice every chance you get!!!
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to see pictures of your first Bolivian Baby. So excited for you guys.
I know that living in a foreign country has it's challenges but I know God will give you guys the strength!
Denise :)
Dear Rudi,
ReplyDeleteI know what you mean about being "tongue-tied!" The best way to get over it is practicing with the family. Speak as much Spanish as you can at home. Your tongue will get over it's "clumsiness" more quickly.
Must have been fun to visit with Steve and Linda, and to see Elizabeth and her family.
It was sweet to see your first little baby boy last night. He is precious! What a privilege to be able to care for little ones who need all the love that you can give.
The kids must be excited to have their first baby to help take care of!
Wish you all could be here tonight to help us crank out some apple cider. We'll be up at your place, and will be there for the evening. I think Chris and Lisa and family will be there, too, along with John Burwell. We'll have plenty of strong arms!
I know that the tremendous faith that you have been given will carry you through this amazing adventure that you are on, and am thankful that by His strength you will be able to deal with any of the challenges you will face.
All my love and prayers,
Mother/Grandma B