Two weeks with guest teachers and mom at work

Well it has been two weeks since a lovely couple joined us here in Gesses. I find myself worrying about whether they are managing okay with all our inconveniences. Is the heat too much? Are they able to put meals together with enough protein and vegetables? Are they enjoying teaching my children? Will they be able to look back on their month and feel that their service was worth it? But then I push the worries aside because they are managing. They are always cheerful, always ready to serve and the two weeks has already been worth all the effort that they put into coming.

The children are doing well. I can even say that my youngest three are thriving under Johanna's caring spirit. The older two are "typical" older students who struggle against schoolwork and yearn for freedom. Yet I am always pleased with their positive responses to their morning of classes with John. Each afternoon, the girls wait for rest time to be over and then run over to the Moe's house for an afternoon of arts, crafts, and sewing.

Last night, Rolf and I enjoyed a quiet supper and evening together which is a rare and treasured event. The kids returned at 8 pm from their evening with the Moe's and they were bouncing with excitement (maybe all the sugar). What a treat to have people come who are grandparents. The extra touches are exactly what our kids need! Special suppers and desserts and a good game of Uno!

My mornings have been spent learning language through translation work and song writing. It is a special opportunity and in so many ways the timing is just right. Andrea (wife of Travis who is doing Bible translation in a town an hour away) has been able to join me these past 2 weeks as well though she will have to leave for Addis for the next 6 weeks. Our vocabulary has been growing and our confidence in speaking as well. Neither of us are aiming for fluency but only that we might be faithful in using what we know.

We have two more weeks with John and Johanna and I won't be surprised at all if the next two weeks are even greater than the first. Pray that the children would grow in understanding and willing to be stretched in new ways. Pray that the Moes would joyfully continue to serve here in Gesses and not grow weary. Pray that I might grow in confidence and skill in the Gumuz language and have wisdom in my ministry this month. Pray that Rolf would persevere joyfully through some tough administration and that there would be great fruit as he walks alongside the young Gumuz men in church leadership.