We were both raised in southwest Michigan to families that love the Lord and were faithful to show from God's Word the depth of His love toward us and how to have a relationship with Him.
Amber: I started studying missionary stories when I was young. The adventure; excitement and hero mentality really appealed to me. I made a commitment to go into missions. I've since traveled all over the world. Through those experiences and maturing in my walk with the Lord, I now see missions very differently. I'm not the hero, GOD IS THE HERO! He has been pursuing mankind's heart since Genesis 1. He invites his children to partner with Him in bringing His story to the world. So, now I hope to go make friends and brag about God to them.
Daniel: My journey to missions greatly differed from Amber's. As a young adult, I always said "If God wants me in missions I'll go…but He doesn't". I'm not certain what I based that conclusion on but it was one I held for many years. Through some pretty pointed questions, and time spent at a missions reality program, I realized that I could choose to be involved as the great commission was given to all believers. Being involved could mean many things, but a weekend away praying and seeking confirmation through Scriptures showed me that God was asking me to be in a "boots on the ground" role. Since surrendering to go, the Lord has grown that step of obedience into a passion and excitement to play a small role in bringing God's story to those who have never heard.
Through ministering at our local church, we reconnected and were married in 2012. We now have four wonderful kids who are willing and eager for our future move to Mexico.
As the time approached for us to choose a field, our hearts were torn over the needs of the world. We felt that the Lord was giving us the freedom to choose. We talked to field leadership teams in Asia and Africa but were unable to find peace. I (Amber) was hesitant to talk with the Mexican field until the Lord revealed that parts of me were still looking for adventure and Mexico didn't feel very exotic. I repented and we finally talked with the leadership team in Mexico.
Mexico is home to sixty-three indigenous languages with over 350 dialects. Many of these have no access to a Bible or a group of believers who can show them Christ's love and disciple them to walk with him. Many Mexican believers desire training to be a part of reaching the lost of their country. The needs are clear.
Embracing that there are always challenges when moving to another country, we were also praying that God would guide us in choosing a place where our family's personalities were well suited. As the field leaders talked about the temperament and cultural expectations of the Mexican people, we both saw what a good fit it would be. As we pursued it further, it became clear how God has been equipping us for this particular field for a long time. He's cool like that. When we presented the idea of Mexico to our kids they responded with literal "whoops" of excitement. We laughed as they expressed all their thoughts and reasons for their joy. "We even love their food!".
As we learn more, the Lord is growing our love for the Mexican people and so our story continues.
