Summer Song

Come, let us tell of the Lord's greatness; let us exalt his name together!  Psalm 34:3 

The first verse in this psalm reminds us to praise the Lord at all times- that His praise should constantly be on our lips.   Amen.  He is worthy in every moment.  

During our last week in Colombia we got to celebrate God's greatness with these kids.  A missionary couple from the south of the nation moved to this needy neighborhood to start a church.  

As we invited kids to the activity, a little girl asked me to go with her to get permission from her mom.  She led me to a "cantina" (bar) where her mom and seemingly all the parents from the area were seated.  Cerveza bottles covered the tables.  I, acting naturally, told mom that we were going to have a lesson for the kids at the church on the corner.   After she gave permission, we invited another little girl there to come as well.  

Giving the kids a couple hours to hear and celebrate the Good News was well worth it.  Pray for transformation in the community starting with them, the parents, and the local pastors. 

We had a good ten days home after Colombia to get ready for the next couple weeks.  Laundry, paperwork, printing, projects, car maintenance and meetings to name a few. 

Then we had the privilege to be a part of Rhema Mexico's missions trip.  Each year Rhema dedicates time and resources to sow the gospel and serve specific communities.  This year we were in some towns near Huichapan, Hidalgo.

These areas haven't always been open.  About 60 years ago there was much Christian persecution: life-threatening circumstances for the pioneering believers.  Praise God for their faithfulness and God's grace in preserving their lives.  

Today the people's response was amazing.  The local church did a fantastic job communicating with the community.  And we saw God's favor.  The authorities allowed the campaigns in public spaces and we didn't even have to go door to door.  The people came on their own. 

As we prayed over individuals with child-like faith, we saw dozens of miraculous healings.   Hundreds of children received the Word of God.  The local church, Rhema Mexico, and the missions team from Michigan united as one Body to share His glory.  

Thank you God!  Continue to minister to each person. Fortify the pastors and churches to keep seeking out those who are lost and to come alongside them in this adventure of following Him.  

Leon, Guanajuato.  Our next destination.  It was a quick turn around to head up north, but we made it just in time to serve with Arbol de Vida (Tree of Life) Church for their missions week.   A team from their founding church in Texas was visiting- willing to share the Word individually and as a group.  

Our first encounter was at this women's rehab center.  I had the joy of translating the stories of two women on the team that testify God's power!  Time and time again on this trip, God paired people from Texas with people from Mexico to share with them the exact ways He had encountered them in that same struggle.  

Anita from Arbol de Vida sharing an object lesson about the cleansing power of God's Word. 

Almost each evening we would round up kids and families in the area and share a dynamic message of Truth with them. After the kids' time, the church ministered through dramas, testimonies, prayer and worship dance parties!  

Many received the true message of Jesus for the first time. In Leon especially (as in much of Mexico), the Catholic Church is deeply rooted.   Unfortunately, few parishes present the gospel accurately: religious practice is highly emphasized while personal relationship with God is rarely mentioned.  However, in the last couple years people's hearts have been opened in a new way to hear and respond to God's heart-- a life surrendered to Him spent together with Him.   

Some fun games for kids as they arrived to the outreach event.

Xaume preaching at one of the local churches that has connected with Arbol de Vida.  It was exciting to see pastors and individuals that we have taught at Arbol de Vida's Rhema Bible Institute take hold of the vision and embrace children's ministry in new ways.

After Arbol de Vida gave out food and clothing to a long line of eager individuals, we had the opportunity to pray for people as they waited for relatives and loved ones outside this hospital.  Many tears and many smiles as these hurting ones received the Hope of Christ.   

Packing up food bags to go out and bless! 

I don't think we will ever cease to be amazed by God's power, His hope, or the greatness of His character. What an honor that He has called each of us to be a part of sharing it with others!   What a joy to be in His family!  Praise Your Name O God! 

Thank you for taking the time to read and pray with us. Every day let's be expectant for what He desires to do.  

This evening Xaume and I will be traveling south (10+ hours) to the state of Chiapas with for the week.   Please pray for those we encounter to respond to God's call, for the local church to be strengthened and encouraged, and for stamina, unity and protection.  May His praise be on our lips always.