At no time the last few years have our families tried to talk us out of our life here. Never! In support raising, no one asked if Ty was sure about not providing securely for our family-in fact there were words of affirmation and pledges to be some of our ongoing financial donors. In moving overseas and choosing immersion for the kids into foreign schools, there was never questioning us if we were sure we weren't scarring them (or ourselves) for life. In fact, family stayed up late in their time zones to text us encouragements in our mornings for weeks as we wrestled through the emotions of actually living out immersion here. As targets got closer and closer and closer to home as terrorists continue to spread hate and fear, despite friends and relatives asking them when enough was enough, they have never once suggested maybe we should return to "safety." Even last week, amidst such emotions-there were no references to their own fears and worries (that I'm sure must exist). They encouraged us, prayed for us, were available at any hour to talk and let us talk and just listen. Yesterday in their Easter celebrations they stood up and presented how to pray for us to their communities, not acknowledging their own questions-perhaps even unvoiced. The closest perhaps to giving words to their fears was in a conversation talking logistics if crisis were to hit our family. Even then, the words were not fear-laden but rather realistic to the world we live in, and reassurance that they would be on the next flight over to whatever city they could get to and find a way to be here if the need arose.
As Ty and I sat talking late in the night, we marveled at what a gift our families are to us. To have parents and siblings and grandparents who love the Lord, who pray for us and encourage us and trust God with us...We have many friends and co-laborers who have little to no home support. We thank God for putting us right where we are, right at this time. The reality of that is also thankful hearts for the families he placed us into! Today, thank God with us for our incredible families and if you're close to any of them-maybe give them an extra hug or shoulder for support! I'm sure they can use it, even though they won't say it to us. So thanks moms and dads and our siblings-we love you and are so thankful for you all!!!!!