Last week we had Pete Thompson, a long-time YWAMer now living in South Africa, as our speaker. I learned a lot from him about God the Father and Jesus the Son and how they correlate with each other. We also discussed barriers to bonding that we have when it comes to getting to know our Heavenly Father. One of the questions we have to answer is “What is something you learned about God the Father? Is this something you are struggling with or excited about?” Something that I learned is that I there is an enormous wall in front of me that I need to deal with until I am able to know God in a deeper way. This will be a long process, and will be something I will struggle with no doubt, but I know that in the end I will be better for it. It is hard, especially starting the process of dealing with the barrier in my heart, but I know that the people here will help me whenever I ask and that God is always by my side no matter what.

On a completely different note, I went to the Czech Republic for the first time on Friday! Josh and Ruth (the leaders of our school) were taking Pete and his daughter Jojo out for dinner to the Czech Republic, and there were a couple extra seats, so a few students got to tag along! Herrnhut is only about half an hour from the border, so it was an easy trip. We also drove through Poland on the way, so I was in three countries in one day! It was quite exciting! Plus the food we ate at the Czech restaurant was really good; the night out was definitely a highlight for me.

The weekends here are so quiet and empty, so I am glad the week has started up again! This week is Story Week, where people from around the base come in and tell us stories about God’s goodness. We are also focusing on the arts ministry here, called PickaPocket. The people who are part of it are able to use their arts to raise support and awareness for long-term missionaries, and it is also a means to fight against extreme poverty. Once I know more about it, I will be sure to tell you about it!

I hope all is well back home; know that you are missed and that you are in my prayers.

Love always,

Fina