I have learned it is a big part of life in missions... saying goodbye that is. With a short term team you know the goodbye is coming... but with others it is like it sneaks up on you.

It is ever an easy thing to say goodbye. (Well yes, when there are places you just can not wait to leave - that may be easy) I have not found many places like that though.
More often I find there are always people who stay behind or who move on. People you care about, people you have loved and been loved by in return. People you have stood beside and those who have fought with you in the trenches...
You stay friends with them... but that changes as they are not here involved in the daily life anymore. It is a new season...

Today we are saying goodbye to a Russian American family who have been involved here a long time. The Artemievs. Artem was apart of the very first DTS here. Sarah came a few years later and shortly after they continued together. Natan - 5 years old. Trinity 3 years old. Here are just a few things they have been involved with. They served as directors for a season. They pioneered a ministry to families. They were involved in rehab centers. They have been involved with church plants in the region. They have loved and served hard! They will be greatly missed!

Today they are getting on a plane heading to America. Where they will be settling down for at least a while. They are entering a new season in their lives. We bless them as they go and are exciting about this new season in their lives. God is opening up new doors for them :)

If you are reading this... pray for them. Pray for them as they adjust to life in America! Pray for them to have strength as they face new challenges... culture shock, job hunting, language and many other things.

Good bye!