:: Reaching Nepal ::

I know that a lot of you get my prayer letter, but some don’t so here it is. I had to edit some things because there? were names and other sensitive information. I hope you enjoy it.

? ? ? ? Many of you already know this, but this is my first prayer letter as an official missionary on the field. On the 11th of January I loaded up my bags and boarded a plane for Kathmandu. It?s been a long journey to get to this place but all the hard work and trials have been worth it. Fourteen years ago I began to dream about serving Jesus in a faraway land and now my dream is coming true. I know my journey still has many obstacles in it, but I am so thankful He has chosen me to reach these people for His glory.
? ? ? ? One of the big blessings I have had in coming to the field is that my best friend David was able to leave his responsibilities as youth pastor for a time and come help me get set up in Nepal. As we stepped off the plane we were met by the couple who already works here. Because? he is a Nepali and has worked here for six years, many of the difficulties about coming to a newly opened field have been made easier. Before I came he already had an apartment for me and now that I am here he has taken me to local shops to furnish my new home.
? ? ? ? For the next two or three years my main responsibility is to study the language. Before I can reach these people for Christ I must be able to communicate with them. I ask that you make this a matter of prayer. I long to be effective in this country, but my own language skills are very limited. Only through His power will I be able to master Nepali. Knowing that language study will be my main focus for a long time, I was greatly encouraged when? our team leader? asked me to teach at the Bible college he started. He also asked me to teach an English Bible study at the Nepali church he pastors. I am so thankful that I will still have outlets for ministry as I learn the language.
The violence in Nepal is still very real. Just last week the Maoist rebels set off numerous bombs across the valley and a gun fight killed close to twenty-five. Within the last few day the King cut all cell phone service and has called for a nightly curfew to begin at 9pm. Things are unstable here but God has protected us and we will continue to trust in His sovereign plan.
? ? ? ? ? The next several months will be busy for me. Right now David along with Daniel and Chrissy? ***** are with me until the end of January. At the beginning of February Leah? ***** and one of her friends will be coming to stay for eleven days. And at the end of February, Jennifer? ***** will be coming for two weeks. Pray that God will do amazing things in these next two months.
? ? ? ? I am using MSN Messenger so that I can talk with all my friends and family. If you can, please use this instant message service. My screen name is ?reachingnepal@hotmail.com? and I will be on between 9pm and Midnight your time. I love you all very much and am forever grateful for your prayers and support.
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For the Sake of His Name,

? Nathan

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