In January, Richard and Wendy, along with two of their co-workers, attended a two-week Bible Translation workshop. It was very well done, and they now feel much better equipped. During their time there, it became apparent that there are areas of the tribal language that they are weak in, particularly with how larger chunks of language are put together (On the discourse level). Along with the field leadership, they have decided that they need to spend some time and energy figuring out and writing up how discourse works in the Pwo Karen language. It is a “brain stretching process”. Pray for them as they investigate and process what they learn. Their goal is an accurate, usable translation of the Bible in the tribal language.
While the two co-workers that attend the workshop continue to move forward in language and culture study at a steady pace, their learning tasks are becoming increasingly challenging, and right now, it is in hottest, driest time of the year. Pray that they will not be discouraged and continue to press on in this important task of learning to communicate clearly in another language and culture.
Keep praying for the older man that Richard has been teaching. This is the second time teaching him through the Bible. Richard has finished teaching the life of Christ and is now teaching a few lessons from the Book of Acts. He will finish up with some lessons from Revelation about the end times and eternity. Please pray for the older man, that as he continues to hear the Gospel presented, he will understand that he is a sinner separated from God who created him, loves him and provided His own Son to be his Saviour. Pray that he will trust in Jesus and enter a relationship with God for now and all eternity.
Richard has started teaching the Bible to another couple who are refugees. The husband is eager to learn and teaching them has been refreshing. Their schedule is very flexible from day to day, so they have not yet come up with a regular time to meet. Pray for Richard as he teaches and that the teaching times will become more consistent. Pray that this family would understand and believe the truths taught from God’s Word. The couple have two school aged children.
In January, the man of the family that also serves among the Pwo Karen in the ministry of discipleship and evangelism in a different town, had major surgery to remove a tumour. Praise the Lord for the wonderful medical care available in Southeast Asia. The surgery was successful and he is recovering well. Please pray for the family as they have some upcoming decisions about their children’s future education. Next month father and oldest son will be taking a trip back to Switzerland to investigate the various opportunities for apprenticeships.
After returning from the translation workshop, the owner of the house Richard and Wendy rent informed them that they want the house back when the contract expires, which was completely unexpected. They have until the end of September to find alternative accommodation. Pray that they would find a suitable house in a good location or that the house owners will change their mind and allow them to extend the rental contract.
Thank you for being their co-workers through prayer in this corner of the Lord’s harvest.