This video gives you a glimpse into the life of a family very dear to our hearts. Your support of us has enable us to touch the lives of everyone in this video.
I worked a lot of on the audio translation post-production for their team, we've huddled around them in prayer. Kendal has taught their kids, and works with them at the school. Our kids are friends with their kids, etc, etc.
When we say 'support' there is so much that goes into that, because it is where our hearts are. As they work on translating the Bible into these 16 different languages, our desire is to join with them and uphold them and help them to accomplish this work.
When they feel joy, we feel joy. When they experience loss, we experience loss. That is what we mean by 'support staff'. And yet, because of this relationship we are also encouraged by them. They return the kindnesses, it isn't a one way street. As we've supplied their family with meals, so have they in turn, supplied our family with meals. We celebrate the wins together, and their work and struggle gives our roles purpose.
I say all of this because someone out there might be wondering 'what do support staff missionaries do?'
The best way I can describe it is this. You start out with the goal of using your skills to join in the task of Bible translation. In the process you merge into a common goal, each individual using their unique talents to further the process. Because the process takes a long time, life happens, and when it does you live it together. Through all of that, God is glorified, and relationships are strengthened. It forges a deep friendship.
In my head it works like this:
People support us to be in PNG.
We support others to work towards Bible translation.
In the end, the body of the church is using their resources and skills uniquely to merge into a common goal of seeing people's lives changed.
God is glorified in that an overwhelmingly huge task is accomplished by bringing together individuals who love Him.
