We've now been in country exactly ten days and have spent most of them getting to know the little section of the city in which we're staying. There's a lake near our hotel where many local students our age hangout. They love to practice English with foreigners. It provides an open door for us to share the Story with them. Unfortunately most of the students are busy during the weekdays, so our first week was somewhat discouraging. However we were able to meet with D and A, Brothers who are fruit of last summer's team. We met with them and some of their friends who have not yet responded to the Story. Over "egg coffee," we shared our stories with D and A. They seemed very excited and encouraged to be with Brothers and Sisters. D shared with one of his guy friends as we sat there and silently asked the Father to open his heart. Our girls also shared with the female friends of D and A. It's our hope that the Spirit will be working on them.
On the weekends we've met several English clubs, which are groups of university students who meet regularly to help each other practice English. Our girls set a coffee date with three girls they met this way and shared with them. The response they received was phenomenal. One of the local girls, T, shared that she had been searching for something like the Story and was very interested in hearing more about it.
E and I, the male members of our team, have been approached by far fewer students. It's been difficult, but we know that it's all in the
Father's hands. I set up a meeting time with one guy I met whose English was impeccable, but he didn't show up. However, as E and I sat there, they were approached by a guy and girl who wanted to practice English with them. They were able to share with them and got the guy's phone number. He said that he would talk to his family about making a Decision. The girl was less fluent in English and may not have understood the Story so well, but it's all in the Spirit's hands. We hope to follow up with the guy soon.
As we enter our second full week in country we've been reminded of Paul's message to run the race with perseverance. It may be hot and discouraging at times, but we know why we're here, we know it's worth it... and we know that the Father is doing great things. We ask for strength, patience, and endurance as we begin this race.
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