As we reflect on ways God has “moved mountains” to get us in to South Sudan we have to acknowledge one way is that J– was able to go into Melut ahead of our family for almost three weeks to begin prepping the foundation and building our home for an easier transition. To do this he took a commercial flight into Juba and then was able to fly with WFP (world food program) into Malakal where he was able to ride with some folks from FAR in their land cruiser to Melut. This is an amazing series of miracles for several reasons.
J–‘s journey was the first “as planned” trip that occurred for logistics for the entire month (something went wrong or not as planned for every other trip). This “smooth” travel was such a relief for J– (and I) as he navigated a country he was not familiar with.
WFP let us know right after J–‘s flight that due to budget cuts they would not be able to accommodate any more passengers beginning February 1st (J– was the last SIM person to be able to be on a WFP flight until future notice). As a side note please pray this has a huge impact on aid work in South Sudan.
Even though our home did not arrive as planned it has allowed J– time to work on not only preparing our foundation but our teammates as well helping them get set up into their home sooner. We are hoping the house will arrive on the 6th or 7th at which time J– will transport it with Eli into Melut and have about 4 days to assemble it before returning to meet us for our family flight in.
We are amazed at God’s grace in allowing Jon to so smoothly enter the country and complete tasks that will make our transition in so much smoother.
So great to hear all of you are well and THE plan for you is unfolding so clearly.
We think of you often and pray that THE plan will continue to be so evident and that you will be safe and healthy. It is so exciting to be in contact with you and hear of your work and adventure.
Love,
Paul & Fran