Praise the Opportunity

This was a very encouraging week. Monday night at Guadalajara (no idea if that is spelled correctly) we had great classes with the local community. Here in the northeast Brazil, when it rains people don't go anywhere. Many times it is because they have to walk or ride a motorcycle. So ingrained in the culture, it actually happens to the students here at the Alcance despite everyone having a car. This particular Monday evening it was pouring. However, during a small window of dryness a good number of people showed up. This was very encouraging because it showed their dedication to learning. Ruth and I were wondering earlier that day why people here wanted to learn English; so I asked. A lot of people said that employers ask if they know English. Others said that they wanted to travel one day. And others said that it was simply a cool language. The ones that spoke about English enabling them to get a better job or those who mentioned that they wanted to travel have been the most devout learners. I've notice such a drive in them during class. It is very cool to see people take initiative and be proactive for their own futures. This is very encouraging.By simply teaching them English (though it is not as simple sometimes as it sounds) we are helping them improve their circumstances. By providing an opportunity to learn English and answering the call to teach, it now feels like we are truly showing love to our neighbors by being beside them while they are bettering their future circumstances. It is very cool to think about how we are being used to serve other people in a way that can really be beneficial for their future. I'm so happy to see the Alcance taking on this responsibility and the Lord blessing them for their obedience.