Six Months In: Grateful Hearts in a New Land
It’s hard to believe that six months have already passed since we arrived in Australia. The wait to get here felt incredibly long, yet now that we’re settled, the months seem to have flown by. Looking back, these first six months have been filled with both challenges and blessings, and above all, a deep sense of gratitude to the Lord.
From the very beginning, we were reminded that we were not stepping into this new season alone. Upon arriving at the airport, we were warmly welcomed by church leadership and a close family friend. That first Sunday was especially meaningful—being introduced during a special induction service and embraced so kindly by the church family made us feel instantly at home. Even our house reflected the Lord’s care: it was fully furnished, and the pantry was already stocked with food. God’s provision through His people was evident in every detail.
Just three weeks after arriving, we stepped straight into ministry with the launch of our first youth group. Meeting every two weeks during the school term, the group consistently welcomed around sixteen teenagers. These evenings became a highlight—time spent opening God’s Word together, sharing meals, playing games, and building relationships with the teens and their families. We are also thankful to be involved in Sunday school, with a special focus this year on helping high school students gain a deeper understanding of Scripture. Deon has had the privilege of preaching on Sundays and teaching a weekly men’s Bible study, and as we look ahead, we’re excited to begin a Bible study in our home to connect with new families seeking to learn and grow in God’s Word.
Our children have experienced some of the biggest transitions through this move, and we are incredibly proud of how they have handled each challenge. After completing a school year in the United States, they entered the Australian school system halfway through the year—a significant adjustment, especially at the high school level. Because of differences in the education system, we decided that Ruan would repeat Year 10, even though he had completed Year 10 in the US, so he would be better prepared for Years 11 and 12. Jesse and Julia also moved up a grade, and while missing the first half of the year was difficult, their diligence paid off as they finished strong. Perhaps the most rewarding part for them has been serving alongside us in ministry, where they’ve formed meaningful friendships with peers who have welcomed them so graciously.
Moving is often called one of life’s most stressful experiences, and now we truly understand why. Leaving behind the familiar, managing the countless logistics, and adjusting to a new culture each bring their own challenges. Even though we have faced similar moves before, we have learned afresh that we cannot do any of this on our own. Every step—whether in relocation, health, or the daily demands of life—has reminded us that we are utterly dependent on the Lord.
It is only by abiding in Him that we find strength, guidance, and peace. As the days pass, the early struggles grow more manageable, not because we are doing it alone, but because He carries us through them. Our trust in Him deepens with each step, and we are constantly reminded that without Him, we can accomplish nothing.
Thank you, dear friends, for your faithful prayers and partnership in ministry. Your encouragement strengthens us immeasurably, and knowing you stand with us allows us to serve the Lord with confidence, steadfast in His grace and provision.
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