What reflections and connections can you make with this novel?

This novel instigated some thoughts that sank deep into my heart. At many points throughout the novel I felt like I could relate to this book at a very personal level. As I grew up as a missionary kid ever since I was five years old, the concept of evangelism has been a familiar topic for me. However, I did not understand the significance of it until I truly met God. When I met God, I realized that I was not merely a "missionary's kid", but in fact a missionary myself. Wherever I went and whatever I did, I was called to be a witness of Christ, and this was a mission in itself. Obviously in today's community I do not face as severe, life threatening obstacles as Don Richardson and his wife, but turning to God in the midst of all the distress and franticness could be directly applicable in my life. In page 156 of the book, Don Richardson expresses his troubling over the idea that the Sawi may in actual fact "be fattening us friendship for a slaughter," yet his wife Carol reassuringly remarks that "God always has a way." This, it seems, is an utterly hackneyed phrase used in today's time. However, this phrase in fact holds a truth and a promise from God Himself. Don Richardson later claims that they were "reduced to utter dependence upon God" and their only hope for the Sawi were to be found in the promises of God. At times I feel as there is no hope for those in my mission field. But, as Don and Carol Richardson believed, God always does have a way and hope if always found in the promises of His word.