Just like the summer months in the Arctic, our first year of life and ministry in the North has gone by quickly. It has been a year of learning and experiencing the Inuit way of life, Inuktitut, and God’s grace.
Daily life in the Arctic has some similarities to life in the south. Spending time with people is one of them. Our sons, Theo and Jude, have developed friendships with several children in our neighbourhood. The frequent sound of our doorbell reminds us of the new relationships we are stewarding. Friendships among the children has also allowed us the opportunity to connect with their parents and families, too.
One aspect of Inuit culture we learned rather quickly is the importance of sharing food. Traditionally, anyone who has had a successful hunt will share with others. We enjoy sharing fish, arctic hare, and clams with friends and neighbours. We can see how participating in the Inuit way of life has had a positive impact on our friendships.
Learning Inuktitut has been challenging and yet rewarding! While we are currently infants in the language and our attempts to speak in Inuktitut are difficult and awkward, we see bridges being built into the Inuit community.
As we reflect on this year two truths have been impressed upon our hearts.
- First, God is faithful. A small statement but profound as each day we see evidence of this in our lives and ministry. He has been faithful to provide a language helper for our team, meet all our physical needs, and to direct our days and time.
- Second, He is worthy. Living in the Arctic has its own set of challenges including the harsh, dark winters. In June our teammate, Brandt, was in a terrible 4-wheeler accident. A few months later our language helper’s daughter was in an accident, which has been difficult for her and has left her unable to meet with us for language in the time being. We recognize that God said “yes” to these trials, and we are choosing to consider these circumstances as an opportunity for great joy and spiritual growth. When we consider what Christ has accomplished on our behalf (Romans 5:1-11) serving Him becomes an honour and privilege. We thankful to have a front row seat in all that God is doing in the Arctic. We trust He will use everything from daily life and sharing food to significant trials for His glory.
—Rob and Hilary Bartholdson
ethnos.ca/rob-and-hilary
