I would like to give what we see Andrew and Morgan doing in India. Sharing Jesus with others is similar whether at home or abroad, but when abroad, there are many other things to consider. They still spend 2 hours a day learning language. I've heard them carrying on Hindi conversations on a basic level with various ones while here so they are learning! Below is a picture of their new language teacher. He has talked to us several times this week, and Don and I have been impressed with his knowledge of the Word and of God. Today we found out that he is Ravi Zacharias' first cousin!
Learning the culture is another big job they have. How do you handle employees who try to ask for too much money? What is the legal process for transportation, taxes, visitors (yes we have to be registered). At the college, they found differences in how genders were permitted to relate to one another and how professors were expected to relate to students. What do parents expect from babysitters? What is the proper way to connect with different levels of the culture? The Streets live around those who are wealthy...but right behind their house, are families living in these conditions......
If they want to befriend the upper class in their area, it is recommended they only connect to the poor and needy in a different neighborhood. Of course, the leading of the Spirit trumps all....but they are learning the sensitivities.
While we've been here, the Streets sat down for tea with electricians who were working at their house. They visited in their living room with their new landlord who in return invited them over for tea. There have been some very meaningful spiritual conversations with their Hindu housemaid. They are connecting with other American missionaries in the area ....some to glean from their experiences and some for fellowship. Andrew also attends and contributes to church planting meetings here in India. His heart's desire is to train church planters for the harvest in India and beyond. He also spends time researching a possible business to do in India to help with the visa situation. All this plus being a big help around the house!
Being here drives home to me the big task it is to raise a family of three small boys very far from extended family, adjust to a new culture, and to learn a new language. They've dealt with heat, a difficult government process to do ANYTHING, rats in their home, culture shock, loneliness, difficult baby delivery, misunderstanding......and more. But suffering these things is part of our suffering with Christ, and He gives strength and blesses beyond our comprehension. The above picture is a picture of Andrew and Morgan taking off tonight from their home for an overnight date while we get to watch the boys! They need the time to refresh and recharge.
It's a small world... :) Glad you all were able to go.
ReplyDelete