lessons on how to love

Last Wednesday morning we had the joy of something that happens from time to time in our office. After our normal meeting, we invited some special guests who are participating in ministry around the world into our space. And what unfolded was such an encouragement. The couple whose story was shared spent their first 20 years of marriage working overseas, translating the Bible into a language that was never before written.

When they returned home, one of the first things they did was go to a grocery store in Miami & the girl at the checkout asked them "paper or plastic" and they thought she was asking if they were paying with cash or credit. Funny story, yes, but at the same time, a realization of how much life took place in the 20 years that they were overseas. There were so many awesome testimonies that they had to share but also some really practical resources as a result for those who are back home, praying for them and supporting them. Some of the things they shared really surprised me and reminded me that I too easily assume I know what people need.
Here are a few of the things that were surprising...and helpful:

-find out what kind of software upgrades are needed and mail a copy
-Send local newspaper stories and even cartoons to your friends overseas, reading about things that are familiar will be interesting and fun for them to read
-make sure to include them on your invitation list for weddings, graduations, baby announcements, even if you know they cannot attend the events, they love to be included
-decaf coffees & teas are often hard to find overseas and are easy and light to mail
-encourage your missionary friends with devo books written in English, they probably don't have the same access to those as you do at your local Family Christian Store

Taken from "65 Ways to Love & Encourage Missionaries"- Ed & Linda Speyers

I know for me it is so easy to get wrapped up in the day to day of my own life and I am always encouraged to hear about what is going on to advance the gospel in other parts of the world. So here are a few ministries I know of and would love to hear from you on others you read about/are praying for. Feel free to add to the list below: