With less than two months left before moving to the Philippines, things are starting to feel very real for Markus, Katja and Theo Neufeld. At the end of July Markus handed over his responsibilities in the administration of Ethnos360 Germany to concentrate fully on their departure and the preparations involved. They still haven’t received all the documents they need. It remains a prayer request that they will have everything ready at the right time. They have sent two boxes with some of their belongings by sea. Pray that they will arrive safely at their destination.
Their flat is slowly emptying. They are sorting through things to take or store. They already know where they will be living in the Philippines (probably for the first year), which makes the whole thing even more concrete. Slowly, they have to say goodbye which is not easy for them.
They are frequently asked whether they are looking forward to the Philippines. Their feelings are mixed. Yes, they are excited and very grateful that they had the opportunity to visit there previously, meet people, and see the places where they will be going. At the same time, they are sad that they will be leaving many dear people behind in Germany, and goodbyes are exhausting! They are also aware that it will be challenging in the Philippines. They will have much to learn; the language, the culture, how life works, and build new relationships. In all of this, they want to keep their eyes fixed on the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, who goes before them, guides them, cares for them and gives them what they need. Their motivation is for people to come to know Jesus, especially in places where they have never heard of salvation through Him, and for God to be glorified by all people, everywhere on earth.
Praise…
… for time with family and friends.
… that He has everything under control and that they can therefore be calm, even if not all the documents are ready yet.
… for their Good Shepherd who guides them and cares for them.
Pray…
…for wisdom in maintaining contact from afar.
…that they will have all the documents together at the right time.
…for strength and wisdom for the upcoming farewells, and final preparations, that they may think of everything and do everything well.
Thank you for supporting Markus, Katja and Theo in prayer.