The writer of Hebrews concludes his encouragement to Christians with a command to \u201crun with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith\u201d <\/i>(Heb 12:1b\u20132a). Is a patient person just someone who is not easily bored, who can outlast everyone else or win a staring contest? Actually, biblical patience is enduring, continuing to glorify God by following Jesus Christ, regardless of how long or how hard. The model of endurance is Jesus himself, who endured and obeyed through the pain and humiliation of the cross (Heb 12:2), not only for a few hours one Friday, but through a lifetime of sinful opposition from wicked men (Heb 12:3). The lesson for us is clear: we must look to Jesus for strength and follow his example of doing God\u2019s will no matter how long it takes or how hard it is.<\/p>\n

We are currently waiting on a response from our first submission of our temporary residency paperwork. It seems there is a bit of a backlog because of a large number of Haitian immigrants entering Chile<\/a>. (Side note: it may come as a surprise to many Americans that simply showing up and living in another country is not a right. No foreign nation will let us stay unless they are satisfied we will be helpful to the country and financially support ourselves. It may also surprise the other half of Americans that \u201cgoing through the proper channels,\u201d while quick and easy to say, is neither quick nor easy.)<\/p>\n

In the meantime, we had the opportunity to spend a long weekend in Antofagasta, which was a great blessing and encouragement to us. We ask for your prayers that God will work in us and for us as we seek to glorify him with Christlike endurance.<\/p>\n