I have documented quite extensively on this blog some our personal struggles and difficulties of living as missionaries in Kenya. They have been intense and discouraging at times. But over the past couple of months I have been following the challenges and struggles of three other missionary families on three different continents. We personally know all of the families and went through several training sessions with them. We all "graduated" from the same approval process so they have been on their respective fields for the past 2-3 years. I share their stories below because I realize that "suffering" comes in many different forms and events. And I think during this holiday season it is important to pray for folks who are struggling in very real ways.
Our first family is very similar to us...a doctor and his family. About the same time that God was calling us to adopt, this family felt a similar call. They decided to adopt a baby from the country they were living in. Several weeks after completing the first round of paperwork, they were asked by a single young mother to adopt her child. They did so, taking the baby in at age one week. Over the past six months they have been raising this girl as their daughter. About 3 months ago, a local judge refused the process their second round of paperwork. The past 3 months have been a grueling and emotional struggle. Over a week ago they ran out of legal options and had to give the child up. They continue to fight for this precious baby but things look bleak as they are being persecuted; apparently the only thing "wrong" with their application is that they are Americans. They need big time pray.
A second family is also struggling. They have 6 children. After 2 years on the field, they went back to the U.S. for what they thought would be a 3 month Home Assignment. While there, they had one of their children tested for some learning disabilities (he was really struggling in school). It was determined that he needed to stay in the U.S. for this school year to get him "back on track." Although disappointed, they felt at peace with this decision. Sadly, two months ago, the house they were renting back in their field of service caught fire and wiped out all their earthly possessions. It has been a difficult time for them sorting through that emotional disaster.
Finally, another couple whom we love dearly has spent the better part of the past two years constantly harassed and threatened by the local officials in the country where they were serving. They were eventually kicked out of the country on trumped up charges. Their team mates were also kicked out. Subsequently, the team has undergone a lot of turmoil and has disbanded. This dear couple is going back home to the States for a period of reevaluation and refreshment. They are waiting on God for the next step.
These situations almost shame me about "whining" about my own circumstances. But I realize in the bigger scheme, that the enemy is real and prowling in all situations. Life is full of disappointment and discouragements. As my international director likes to say, "Missions is messy." It sure is. Living in countries that are not your own has its inherant risks. Nothing is to be taken for granted.
And so, during this time of year with all the hustle and bustle and fun of the Christmas season, pray for these missionary families. Lift them up. Pray for others that you know that are struggling. Pray that the Light of the World will shine mightily in all these situations.
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