IF1 09

Our first Interface program of the year was an absolutely incredible time for everyone involved. We had 14 students – mostly from America & Germany, and with all different backgrounds. It was such a cool dynamic! For me, it was exciting to see the program from the staff point of view. I was again thankful that I was able to go through the program as a student in July/August, because I could appreciate everything the students were going through & learning for the 4 weeks they were here. It was really evident to everyone that the ITF program is the heart & soul of this campus. The conferences are great, but it’s very clear that we (all of the staff)have a heart for the students and are all about pouring our lives into theirs. It’s our purpose for being here – and to show them the reality of tribal missions. That yes, it is difficult, but it can be done! It was so cool to just sit and talk with them, answer questions, and watch them grow.

My job was very different during program. I still ran around fulfilling my assistant-to-the-director duties, supervising the workmeris, and being the audio/visual geek… but I had several new roles as well. I had students in my home almost every night, ate every meal with them, lead many of their “village exposure” trips (awesome time getting to know more villagers, and working on my pidgin), hiked with them, sat in on some of their classes… and TAUGHT a few classes too! Whoa. That was a huge step outside of my comfort zone. When I was asked to teach I immediately said “yes”. A millisecond later I thought “what on earth possessed me to say that?!” I was ridiculously nervous, but also excited. I’ve given talks at Bible studies and churches (for the record, even that makes me nervous), but I never had the responsibility of imparting knowledge into willing minds before. My first class was “Health & Hygiene” – a nice easy one to start off with. I mostly talked about the physical ramifications of living with new foods and in a tropical climate – like wound care and diarrhea. Oh joy. This had the unfortunate side effect of daily confessions from students about their intestinal activity. But they were all very gracious about my nervousness and were excited to see God stretching me into this new area. They kept asking when my next class was and were so encouraging! I was pretty calm for my second class – Serving As Senders – where I was actually able to teach and spread my wings a little bit. I LOVED IT!!!

Here are a couple pictures of me that the students took:More pics of our time : Village ExposurePeeling kaukau for the mumu
Before our big hike to the river. By the time we came back we were covered in mud (and by that I mean mud combined with manure!), a little blood from the nail grass, and got soaked in a downpour. It was the most fun I've ever had hiking:The best thing... the reason that we are here... is that some of the students truly had life changing experiences. After all they saw & heard, they are convinced that they want to take God's Word to those without it. Several are headed off to Bible School or Missionary Training. Please pray with us for them - that they would keep striving hard, trusting and pursuing God's call for their lives. I've watched Him do amazing things in their hearts and it's been a tremendous privilege to be a part of it, to invest in them, and serve in this particular ministry.

"Whatever you do, wherever you live, if you belong to Jesus Christ, the call from heaven has come to you - to the highest honour a human being can experience. The Son of God is spreading His love, His lifestyle, and His life-saving message across this planet - and you know what? He has summoned you to join Him in His glorious Administration. Don't settle for anything less. " ~Ron Hutchcraft