Bittersweet Departure

Titus and I spent a couple of weeks in Tanna last month, visiting Christians in Iatukun and Loun Village. Jack, Anna, Saing, and Ralph traveled with us from Port Vila to Iatukun. Their family came to Port Vila last November, after baby Ralph rolled into the cooking fire, causing significant burns to his legs and feet. They spent a few months in the hospital (five toes amputated and several skin grafts on his legs), and then several more months with Anna's family.

With Ralph back to good health, it was time for the family to go back home to Tanna. After spending a week with us in Iatukun (Jack's sister, Margaret, lives there with her husband, Tom, who originally taught and baptized Jack and Anna), we took them to their home in Green Pointe (South Tanna). I can say that a few tears welled up in my eyes as we drove away. God really used their trials to ultimately be a blessing. They've grown so much in the past year (closer to the Lord and closer to each other), and have been such an encouragement to the Vila congregation and our family. Jack has been a great study-buddy ... we made it from Genesis to 2 Peter, studying together several hours every week (we plan to finish up the NT next year). At the same time, I am excited to see what God will do through this young couple, in a village that is still a very dark place. Please be praying for them to let their lights shine, and for the continued health of their boys.

Lord willing, we will make our first visit to Green Point to work with Jack and Anna in March of next year :)

My last study with Jack this year. His younger brother, Joseph, who is Mormon also joined us.

Jack, Anna, Saing, and Ralph at their gate in Green Pointe Village, South Tanna Island