Hey everyone,
I just wanted to write a quick update to let you know that Art and I are indeed still alive! I apologize for the lack of keeping everyone updated (if anyone does ever check this blog anymore). We've had limited internet access and when we do get to use the internet I usually forget to update the blog or spend all the time emailing family and a few friends. So once again, sorry!
Well, let me do my best to try to briefly catch you up on what Art and I have been up to this last month. We've been slowly making our way along the South coast of the East Java, staying for 3 to 5 days at a time in villages and small towns. The coastal regions where we have traveled are absolutely gorgeous! We've made some great connections with very friendly, welcoming people. We've done a ton of smiling, lot's of sitting around totally confused about what's going on around us, and have drank more (incredibly delicious) coffee than any person ever should in a lifetime! The people are warm, very hospitable, genuinely interested in us, and attempt to communicate with us as best as they/we can. (One guy asked us if there are trees in America and another stopped his motorcycle to say "ne how" to me - I'm not positive, but I think that's Chinese haha!). Besides random questions and small talk with lots of new friends, we've had a couple of opportunities to openly share our faith and have undoubtably been able to plant many seeds. More than anything, we've been able to pray a ton for these people and these places (I think a lot of these people have never been prayed over - a totally awesome experience for both of us to be able to experience).
God is no doubt at work in this place and in these people. Art and I have also been growing in our own faith (and friendship) more than we could have ever imagined. God is so good and he is so faithful! Please continue to pray for the people here and God's soverign and divine plan for them. Also, pray for God using us here, that we may continually willingly and boldy follow his direction.
We are very much enjoying being here, but definitely miss everyone back home! We love you guys!
Zach
PS I'll try to get some pictures up soon!
