But we are reminded of our favorite lyric from our favorite band, RWB... "Everyyyyyybodyyyyy said, it ain't gonna be easy... Noooooobodyyyyy said, kid its gonna get hard!"
Its a rollercoaster. We are being humbled & challenged greatly. Hard on the kids especially which makes it hard on us too :)
Sleeping on floor, living on very tight budget (hungry & thirsty & hot all the time), always with each other & team members, no privacy, packed schedule, urban living without room to run & play, etc.
We had a good blow up the other night & let out some steam:)
We discussed that there are no perfect families... Only families that are willing to communicate & work through the crap, even when we don't feel like it.
We take pride in our family but last night Jessica & I were reminded that in the Bible pride is a sin. Humility is what God wants for us.
Though we are struggling with each other more than ever, we are also praying as a family more than ever! Its our only option for sanity. He is breaking us so that we will lean more on Him.
It has been hard for us to go without all the amenities we have in our normal life. Little things we take for granted like babysitters, beer, tv, video games, etc. Its been easier for us to "get along" when we can grab a sitter & a beer, or tell the kids to go in the basement & watch a movie, etc. Here it is all stripped away. No filler for the cracks. Gotta dig them out and reset the foundation :)
Jessica & I tried everything from discipline to bribery to threats to reason. Then we came to our wits end and knew prayer was the only answer. We are praying 4 or more times daily AS A FAMILY now. Its amazing how great the kids behave after a good prayer session.
Not to be too dramatic, but stress draws us all closer to God. The world looks different when we lose a loved one, or a job or some other tragedy. The difference on mission outreach is that it is voluntary. But some of the same stretching is happening.
Please pray for our unity & humble action.
Love you all.
Dave
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RESPECT! Best blog yet regarding your walk with Christ sharing the "dirty laundry" of the conflict between human nature and spirituality. Much mediocracy within the masses of Christianity attending church once a week or an occasional function surrounded in consistent safe environments. Your family & Cheeks are receiving challenges from all angles which will test and strengthen your faith tenfold!
ReplyDeleteRespect and love for you! I will be stepping up my prayers as your walk continues to escalate.....may God give you all peace, love and joy as you experience trials and tribulations evangelizing in one of the worlds most secular cultures. Love Lil' Moo
Hang in there...CARE package on the way!! XOXO
ReplyDeleteLove you to the moon and back!!