April 9, 2008

Dear supporters,

It has been so good to be back in Taipei and walk the familiar streets and take in all the memorable sights and sounds.  Our days here have been full and we have gotten to re-connect with many of our church co-workers, as well as other fellow English teachers. This past weekend we helped to lead 3E and on Sunday we led a cell group prayer time for over an hour, with both English and Taiwanese speakers.
The past week has been very full in another way as well. Throughout our time in Germany, and then through our arrival in Taipei we have been doing a lot of processing, praying, and talking regarding our vision trip to Africa, our future, etc. And, the best way to sum up the result of all our processing, praying, and talking is Isaiah 55:8 which says, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD.” We thought we had the next step figured out, but we are confident that the Lord is leading us down another path. It has become increasingly clear to us that the place we are to serve as missionaries right now, is Taipei. The outreach which we served in, 3E, is in great need of leadership, which we could provide. Pastor Moses has been looking and praying for someone to step up and lead/restructure 3E. The attendance has significantly dropped in the past months, and the co-workers are heading towards a burnout. There is a huge need for discipleship of the new Christians, as well as follow-up time with the seekers. Many co-workers and attendees of 3E have said that things haven’t been the same in 3E since we left, and would we please pray about returning. In addition, our church is heavily involved with missions in China, which in a lot of ways is comparable to missions in N. Africa, and which we could be involved in. We know that this may come as a shock to many of you, but we also think that some of you may not be too surprised.
It is important to know that we are not making this decision based on our feelings. It is hard to explain, but it is something that we both are certain is the Lord’s doing. While our trip to Africa was excellent in that it met all of our objectives, (i.e.- we asked all our questions, got a good idea of missionary life there, etc.) we did not leave having the confirmation that we had hoped to receive that this was indeed the place God was taking us. We both wanted to feel that confirmation, and maybe even in talking with some of you led you to believe we had received it, but we did not. Our hearts and minds were confused because we were so sure that Africa was where God was taking us. While this is a big shift in terms of our long-term ministry, the Lord used every step along the way, including our vision trip to N. Africa, to make His plans for us clear. We are not saying that Africa will never be in our future. We have been open and remain open to wherever the Lord would take us. Right now He is taking us to Taipei, the place where our hearts and passions are. We are not sure how He will have us here, but as long as the doors remain open, we have to obey.
We know that you all have been praying and will continue to pray for our future. We will be returning to the States in mid-May and then will return to Taiwan in late July. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

For the Glory of God,
Erich and Kelley