Update from South Asia

Here we are in South Asia. After all the talk, preparation and packing...we are here. It is a real place! There is so much to describe: auto-rickshaws, motorcycles, cows and buses fill the streets (and the city with noise); poverty and trash crowd around us with the contrast of tropical flowers, colorful fruit and bright clothing; Hindu temples litter the landscape and the smell of incense permeates the air.

We have had a busy schedule of teaching and learning. Brian has taught several times. Here is he is preaching at a local church (He didn't know he was to preach until we arrived Sunday morning!). Later in the week he preached at a presbytery meeting with local pastors and theological education students. Mandy got to hang out with the wives (see picture below). They painted her hand with henna (a temporary tatoo in a sense) and put jasmine flowers in her hair. Later the women walked to the market, the local park with the kids, and made chai.

We miss our sweet Lydia, but we know this vision trip is being used by our LORD for His glory now and for what He has in the future for us.

Prayer Guide For Our Trip

13 Days of Prayer for the Stocks!

Wednesday, May 11 – travel: safety, logistics, rest, no lost luggage.

Thursday, May 12 – recovery from jet lag: so they can hit the ground running with energy and alertness to really take it all in.

Friday, May 13 – team: they’re meeting up with the current MTW team (3 families will be there to receive them). Pray that they would be an encouragement to them and for unity.

Saturday, May 14 – shopping and paint-ball: Mandy will be shopping for a Sari and exploring the market with South Asian women and American gals from the team. This can be a very bonding experience...pray for it to be joyful and Jesus-exalting. Brian will be painting with the guys and no, he doesn't paintball. Pray for accuracy and swiftness of feet.

Sunday, May 15 – worship: that Brian and Mandy would really be able to worship Jesus in this new context!

Monday, May 16 – Lydia: she will be having fun with her grandparents. Pray for her to adjust well, sleep and eat well and keep learning how to walk! Mostly, pray that Brian and Mandy would not be distraught without her.

Tuesday, May 17 – ministry: there will be many opportunities throughout the week to minister in different contexts. Pray for boldness to proclaim the gospel and open hearts, and also for Brian and Mandy’s hearts to love the people.

Wednesday, May 18 – food and water: South Asian food is very different and harsh on the tummy at times. The water is also not safe to drink. Pray for protection from all kinds of sicknesses that could make these days not so fun.

Thursday, May 19 – language: The Stocks don't speak native tongue, but most "natives" will speak English or they will have a translator. Yet, thick accents can be difficult to understand. Pray this is not an obstacle to truly connecting with the people of South Asia.

Friday, May 20 – culture: that they will have eyes to see the culture for what it is (good and bad), and that God would give discernment for them to determine whether or not we could flourish in this culture or not.

Saturday, May 21 – calling: this is their last full day here. Pray they would have a firm grasp before they depart as to whether God is calling them to South Asia long-term.

Sunday, May 22 – church: Brian will be preaching on Sunday. Mandy will also be leading a women's devotion. Pray for the congregation to be encouraged by Brian's sermon and the Stocks’ presence there.

Monday, May 23 - communication: pray for grace, that they would be able to clearly articulate what God has done in those 12 days and how He is impacting their hearts for South Asia. Also, pray they get home safely for lots of Lydia-hugs!

Pure Cuteness!

It is hard not to post these kinds of picture when we get them! Thanks Christina for the snapshot!

Moments with Mommy: Walking!