Hello Everyone!
We thought it would be good to give you a quick update and let you know what our family is up to. We are currently training at the JAARS base in Waxhaw, NC. JAARS stands for "Jungle Aviation and Radio Services." The base is dedicated to every-day, practical support to make bible translation possible all over the world. This includes aviation training, technology development and missional training. Though we are not with the Wycliffe organization, we have been very blessed to be a part of their training here. It has been pretty awesome to be part of this community for a month and be surrounded by families and individuals who are actively involved in cross-cultural ministry.
We are currently taking part in the ICC course which prepares us spiritually and culturally to work in cross-cultural ministry. It has been really incredible! Mike and I have really been stretched in our faith. Many of our exercises take us out of our comfort zone to really prepare us for being in another culture. All of the instructors here have shared their life messages and been very open with us. We have also delved into many faith issues that Mike and I had not even considered--at least not to the depth we are here. It is definitely a time of spiritual growth for us.
During a pretty intense discussion on suffering and counting the cost of going, I came upon this verse: "I also pray you will understand the incredible greatness of God's power for us who believe in him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God's right hand in the heavenly realms. Now he is far above any ruler or authority or power or leader or anything else--not only in this world but also in the world to come." Ephesians 1: 19-21
How awesome that the same power that raised Christ from the dead is available to us who believe in him to help us through any circumstance!
While we are in training, Liam and Ella have been having a blast at the MK Station and in Summer Safari. They have made some wonderful friends. It has been great to hook up with families who are in the same situation as we are and understand all the transitions and challenges. Liam celebrated his 4th birthday on the 1st! He is learning to ride a bike and very proud of himself. His reaction to waking up on his 4th birthday: "I'm the same size as when I was 3!" Ella has one training wheel off and is working towards riding a bike without training wheels. I think they have both grown three inches since we have been here!
We are definitely looking forward to our next couple weeks here. After that, we have a few days in Virginia to pack up the house and then we move to Pennsylvania! The time is moving so quickly.
We continue to pray for the sale of our house and for partners to join with us financially and prayerfully. If you feel God's leading to join with us, please check out our "Partner with us" tab or contact us directly at mmbrown@southamericamission.org. Though we are moving to Pennsylvania for the kids to start school, we are planning to be back and forth frequently and would love to sit down and talk with anyone who would like to meet with us.
We really appreciate all of your prayers and encouragement! God has truly blessed us with amazing friends and family and we love each of you! Blessings until next time...
