Dear Friends and Family,
We hope that this message finds you joyful in the Lord and enjoying this week as we think about
and act on Christ's death and resurrection. We had hoped to post some pictures on here, but we are having difficulty knowing how to do it. This past month since we wrote to you has been a busy one, but we hope to give you a good summary of what has been taking place. We will be writing another newsletter soon, so look for that in the next month or so.
One of the things that was on our minds recently was figuring out Isaiah's schooling for next year. Since the school year here begins in June, we needed to find a suitable school for him. We visited several Christian schools, which were recommended by the director of our language school. We were praying that God would show us clearly which one would work for Isaiah. We found one school in particular that we were really drawn to. Almost immediately the teachers connected with Isaiah right away, and he with them also. We really felt like the teachers were knowledgeable, as well as showing an ability to connect with Isaiah. For those of you that know Isaiah, he is a more reserved type of child and doesn't always speak up. However, after being at the school for awhile, he said outloud without prompting from us, "I choose this school!" That was really significant for us to hear, especially since we don't always know what Isaiah is thinking. It can be an anxious time when a family is looking for suitable schooling in a foreign country, but God gave us peace in the process. We also liked the classroom because they will be teaching the kids about Jesus, and there are also parts to the day in which they will be learning in Tagalog. We feel that it is important that Isaiah learn some Tagalog so that he can connect with those in this culture as he grows up here. This will be stretching for him, but we know the Lord is with him as He is with us in learning Tagalog. All we have to do now is to give our official "yes" to the school and register him.
Another thing that took place this month is that I ( Matt) was able to return to the U.S. for my brother James' wedding. It was wonderful being able to be there to celebrate that with him along with my family. I am thankful that God provided the money for me to be able to go. God also took care of Becki and the boys while I was gone and kept them safe. It was the longest I had ever been away from them (9 days), and it was on the other side of the world!
Becki and I have been attending a local church close to us since we moved into our home. It is a small church, but the people have been very friendly and welcoming toward us. We feel it is important for us to attend a Tagalog speaking church so that we can build relationships with Filipino Christians, as well as learn to speak Tagalog. They already have a ministry that is dedicated to meeting the needs of squatter families and street children, so that was another indication to us by the Lord that we should continue to attend this church. Pray that we will continue to build strong relationships with people there, and that we won't be afraid to use our Tagalog.
Becki and I have also been able to develop some relationships with some Filipinos in our neighborhood and community. I (Matt) have been able to connect with some men my age in my neighborhood. It is common for men to sit around and eat and drink (unfortunately alcohol) outside. Thankfully the Lord gave me courage to join them lastnight as I brought out some candy for them to enjoy and a Coke for myself. Even though I don't know much Tagalog yet, the Lord still provided opportunities for me to connect with them. They said that it was good thing that I was trying to learn Tagalog. I told them I welcomed their correcting my Tagalog if I didn't say it correctly. They also asked a lot of questions regarding my religion, family, practices, etc. I am now a part of a "barkada", which a group of guys that are friends. For Becki, she was able to meet a Christian lady at a local park. After texting back and forth several times, Becki was able to attend a birthday party for someone in the family at this lady's request.
Lastly, we have also been able to be in contact with street kids when we are with our children. It has been neat seeing Isaiah thinking about what it means to share our food and clothes and other items with them. Pray that the Lord will continue to soften his and our hearts to those that are in need here in the Philippines.
Thank you to everyone for your prayers and support! We pray that you will take time to reflect on Christ's death and resurrection this week, and that it will change the way you think and live. We love you!
Love,
Matt, Becki, Isaiah, and Elijah
