One thing that is real difficult here is managing the roles of "missionaries" verses "friends" as it relates to the local people.
What we desire is to develop genuine friendships with the people. But it is hard to do that when we are only thought of as the missionaries here to help them. Obviously, we want them to know that we are here to help them as well, but it is the balancing of both that becomes a challenge.
Our hearts desire is to be considered by the locals as neighbors and friends. That is actually the way that God has led us to be the most effective "missionaries" we can be. For us, it's through the relationships that we feel we can best point people to Jesus, and also allow us to see the deeper needs that go beyond the physical.
As we continue to oversee ministries designed to meet the physical needs, we pray for God's help in developing friendships that are real and that he would guard the locals from the temptation to take advantage of us.
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