The Visas On Their Way

Yesterday was another busy one in the big city. The people sending us gave us three hours of their time going over our priorities for the work we are going to do. Rev. Andrew Bell chatted about his time in Zululand before coming to New Zealand for two years, twelve years ago. Kerry Jones came in for the time we were their to meet us again and go over arrangements. While there she received fresh news via email from Meto that our visas have been issued and the work permits will be just a formality. Since the earliest we can get them is Monday, we won't be on our way till Wednesday 13th. But hurray for progress!!
We are not going to fix Vanuatu, we are going to work in partnership with the people to see how we can help them develop their skills.
We are not going to judge Vanuatu, but to love the people and worship God in a new way with them
We are not going to work ourselves to the bone, but to learn how to live and work long term, so that we can be maximum use to them. We are also going to enjoy the beautiful country that they have.
We are going there to learn their language and culture. They in turn will learn some of my techniques and ways of doing things
We are not resourced enough, nor do we think it will will ultimately help to pay their bills or debts, but we can help in many other ways, and provide help with building up the training school.
Our job is not to change everything, but to work with them how they know it works.
Andrew blessed us and helped us with with various pieces of administration.

Beyond that we have numerous smaller things to take care of: fixing the SD card reader on the computer so we can download photos, buying an electric nit comb, ensuring our cell phones are the type that work over there, and seeing our Henderson doctor to get some prescription medicines for likely tropical problems. Gracie and Paula now have shorter haircuts, and everyone has sandals and crocs to wear for the year.

Rob Meier is now up there, using funds raised in Christchurch to buy a truck for the urban workshop. This will release to us the Isuzu ute for Ebule. He is finding it hot apparently and we are looking forward to meeting up with him during our three introduction to Vila. When we arrive, Ebule should already have staff and students!!! Hope they are getting on fine without me.
Please pray we can get most everything finished and leave in a reasonable rested condition.