The writer of Hebrews reminded his readers, “For ye have need of patience [endurance], that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise” (Heb 10:36). Since God is always faithful to his promises and because of the finished work of Jesus Christ, we must persevere in faith, doing God’s will, which he enables us to do (Heb 13:21). Most days and weeks don’t require violent course corrections or changes, we simply need patient endurance to continue doing what is right.

This past month our church voted to recognize Adrián as its first elder from the congregation (the first of many, Lord willing). It was a another step forward and a big answer to many of our prayers over the past three and a half years here in Antofagasta, as one of our burdens has been to develop men for leadership in our local church. The unanimous vote of the church clearly recognized his biblical qualification and desire to shepherd the church.

This past month Chile celebrated the 18th of September holidays (roughly analogous to Fourth of July). On Friday the 17th, we enjoyed a delicious cookout with our teammates and two girls from the Bible institute who were on vacation. Then on Saturday the 18th, our church hosted a special celebration with games, competitions, and a huge meal. Both days were good times of fellowship, food, and camaraderie.

This past month we celebrated Bekah’s birthday by making an “exploration expedition” to the other side of the peninsula where big sky, big mountains, big desert, and the big ocean all come together. It was windy and beautiful. Afterward, we enjoyed a delicious birthday meal (with cake and candles) together with our teammates.

This past month our permanent residency applications showed an advance in the percentage (for the first time since November 2019 for Mark’s application and since February 2020 for Bekah’s). They currently show 99% (although we’re not sure how scientific these numbers are). We’re planning a trip to Florida for our annual missionary conference in January, as well as making arrangements for our first furlough next year (May through September). Please continue to pray for the resolution of our permanent visas.

This is our October 2021 email update. You can sign up to receive our updates in your inbox here. You can download a printable PDF here.