Relationships

We have learned many things about Christian living during our time here in Porto Alegre. I think one of the most essentials lessons we have begun to understand is how to start, grow and maintain relationships. Relationships with other people (Christians and not-yet Christians) is vital to maturing your own faith and helping others find theirs.

In June we met a couple in a restaurant in another city. Elisa was drawn to them because of a toy they had for their infant daughter. As we did the small chat thing at their table we found out that they actually live only 3 blocks from us in Porto Alegre!

After a couple of months they called us up and had us over for dinner. The ironic part about them calling us is that they are unbelievers, but wanted to reach out to us because they felt that maybe we were homesick. Having spent a couple of years in Boston, they know what it is like to be thousands of miles away from family. They didn't know at the time that we have already been here for 4.5 years. They reached out to us with compassionate hearts the way we, as Christians, should always be looking to reach out to others.

We recently met this couple again for dinner at our house. Even though we are transitioning out of the work in Porto Alegre, we aren't transitioning out of our responsibilities as Christians. We will continue no matter where we are or what we are doing to work on growing relationships - just like Jesus did.

Our newest friends: Fábio, Thaís & their baby girl Natáilia.