Life sometimes has a very different twist. For instance, to our surprise when we arrived in Brazil, we were given a visa for only 2 weeks instead of 3 months. Completely without explanation. When we objected we were only told, “I can’t give more. Just go to the federal police for an extension.’
We have since found out that this was wrong information. We cannot extend it at all.
We first have to leave the country for 3 months before we can get back in for 3 months. So per grace, we got 2 weeks.
That’s some changing gears! Change of course!
Although it was still unknown to us, the Lord already had this picture in mind. Before leaving, a dear sister had a word from the Lord for us, that if our stay in Brazil turned out differently (e.g. going back earlier) and we didn’t understand it, that the Lord already knew and it was okay. This word was in the background somewhere, but the Holy Spirit brought it back to our minds when we heard this news.
God is so faithful and a good Father! He had given this instruction ahead of time so that we would not be upset now. This indeed somehow gives peace in this very unexpected turn of events. The Lord always has brighter and better plans. He has the whole picture and overview. So we pick this up as a new adventure with new things.
A festive start of the school with Brazilian snacks and decorations, of course.
That said, we did start the training school yesterday. There are 27 hungry students from 11 different churches, eager to be trained. How awesome is that! Especially those 11 churches makes us very happy. Unity in the Kingdom of God. An important thing for Brazil, where competition and division often prevail.
We are looking at how we can do the teaching remotely online. Only the Saturday outreaches, unfortunately, we cannot participate. That’s a real bummer. We would have loved to walk with them on the streets and in the hospital.
At least we were able to give the first kick-off to this school. It is not about us, but that the Kingdom of God is being built.
So once again we will leave the tropical climate behind and this time exchange it for the early spring of Holland. Next week we will set foot on Dutch soil again. Kale with sausage!(Dutch dish)
We are curious to see where the Lord has prepared a place for us to stay, for He is a good caring Father.
2 Responses
This was surprising news! But… “as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are… My thoughts (higher) than your thoughts.” Isa 55:8,9 If one door closes another one will open. Meanwhile, welcome back to the NL! And you know you are always welcome to stay at my place! <3
PS. Shirley got her visa and will be here from the 17th of April.
Lieve Arjan en Amanda, wat een verrassende wending in jullie plannen! God zal voorzien, we weten dat uit eigen ervaring. Maar toch zegenen we jullie met rust en vrede. Een goede reis straks en tot ziens!