Time Spent In The States (1/6/26)

Hey Support Family!

Happy New Year. As we step into a new season, we find ourselves reflecting on all that God has done and looking ahead with hope for what is to come. The close of this past year was filled with meaningful moments, growth, and unexpected connections, and we are grateful for how the Lord has faithfully led us through each step.

“See, I am doing a new thing!

Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?

I am making a way in the wilderness

and streams in the wasteland.”

(Isaiah 43:19)

At the beginning of December, we officially graduated from language school. We are so thankful for the few months we spent studying Spanish. It was a really good landing point for us as we transitioned into life in Costa Rica.

Beyond the language itself, it gave us the opportunity to meet other missionaries, build friendships, and get connected into the local community in a meaningful way. We are grateful for the foundation this season gave us and for how God used it to prepare us for what comes next.

Christmas In The States

After finishing language school, we flew back to the States for Christmas. It was such a sweet time visiting with both of our families and slowing down together. The temperature change was definitely shocking. We went from around 80 degrees in Costa Rica to stepping off the plane in Michigan where it was 12 degrees.

Even though it was cold, there was something refreshing about it. We realized how much we had missed the change of seasons, bundling up, and feeling that winter air.

One of the greatest gifts of being back was time with family. It was really special to see how our families continue to grow and change. Those weeks reminded us how meaningful it is to simply be present together. Living far away makes time like this even more precious, and we were grateful for long conversations, shared meals, and moments that felt unhurried.

We also had the chance to visit our home church and spend time with our Ludington community. It was so lovely seeing familiar faces, reconnecting with friends, and worshiping together again.

Spending three weeks in the States ended up being really good for us. It gave us space to rest, reconnect deeply with family and community, and head back to Costa Rica feeling refreshed and encouraged.

It's A Small World

God gave us a few reminders this month of just how small the world can be. On our flight back to the States, we ended up sitting next to a man and started talking. As the conversation went on, we realized we had many connections in common. He is also a missionary and at one point served with ProMETA. He learned his Spanish at ILE, and his kids attended Sojourn. It was fun to talk through all the people and places we knew in common. On top of that, he lives in Grand Rapids, a place where I grew up and where we also share several connections.

Another reminder came through a friend from Costa Rica whose sister and family live in Michigan. While we were back home, we were able to meet up with her and her husband. It was such a sweet time together and a powerful reminder of how God connects people across countries and seasons. Seeing relationships link Costa Rica and Michigan in unexpected ways left us feeling thankful and encouraged.

Fundraising Update

We are grateful to share that we’ve currently raised about 68% of our needed support, which will carry us through the next six months of this year. We thank God for His provision so far and for each of you who have prayed, encouraged, and given so generously to help us reach this point.

Would you continue to join us in prayer as we seek the remaining support?

Specifically, please pray:

-For potential new donors and opportunities to share our vision, even here in Costa Rica.

-That we would not grow discouraged, but instead keep our eyes on God as our daily Provider.

-For faith to rely on Him each day for our “daily bread,” trusting that He will continue to be faithful.

God has already shown His provision in so many ways, and we are confident He will continue to lead and supply all that is needed for the ministry ahead.

Support us

Prayer requests

-Prayers for both of our mothers. They were in the ER on the 1st of January for different reasons. They are back at their homes but we would love continued prayers for them.

-For unity as we continue to serve alongside our ministries ProMETA & Sojourn.

-That Josh, along with the ProMETA Team Would gain clarity on who the right person is to be mentored by Josh this year (for their new video department).

-Ongoing provision and new partners to join our support team.

Praise God

-For a time of rest with our families in the states.

-Smooth flights back to Costa Rica. This time arriving back to our house here in Costa Rica, it felt like coming home.

-That God continues to provide in incredible ways.

We are deeply grateful for your prayers, encouragement, and generosity. Your partnership makes it possible for us to be here, learning, growing, and serving.

With love and gratitude, Joshua & Rachel Swift