First Things First

But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you. -Matthew 6:33

As we walk through a season of uncertainty, in the midst of the questions we keep coming back to this truth: seek FIRST HIS KINGDOM and HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS. But, what does that really mean? For one, constantly giving over to Him all our worries and unknowns, and two, refocusing as often as possible on the bigger picture: His glory in the world. This is bigger than me. 

Day-to-day seeking His Kingdom looks like quieting our hearts before Him each morning (and throughout the day!), dedicating time with our children, taking time together as a couple, and, as we're able, walking with others towards Him - all the while taking HOPE from His Word and drawing POWER from His Spirit. 

This month we saw God work through Jaime's memorial service (Xau's Dad), baptisms, child dedications, and fun times together. At the memorial, many of Jaime's family members (and a neighbor who attended!) got to hear the good news of the gospel for the first time. It was a significant time reflecting on his life, eternity and purpose.  It even created a space for re-connecting with much of the family whom we haven't seen in years.  

One of the highlights for me was getting to video call with two of the children who decided to get baptized. I got to lead them through Bible passages about baptism and hear their dear hearts. Xau did a beautiful job at the child dedication - explaining the significance of each of the girls' first and middle names and taking time to pray over and affirm each one. It was actually special to do at this age since we begin to see their personalities and strengths. 

That same day, the girls' mother and father got baptized. This is a family that lives next door to another family who came to faith through Twist/Crece. Last year, the mother of Reychel and Neymar (the brother and sister with whom I had the video call) was baptized. She encouraged her neighbors in Christ and they began to take steps in walking more closely with Him. (Above, making use of the new church office! Pray for this precious woman and her family as well.)

Here's one of our times with Tere and Yazna (Xau's mom and sister): a giant bounce house park to celebrate Liam's birthday before Yazna heads back to Peru.  We couldn't believe Tere would try it, but she did! It was a blast. Below - the bathroom projects continue at Crece. Improvement, but it's been quite an undertaking - as simple as it is. But it is SO nice to be able to have a couple toilets that flush 😅! Pray that God provide for all the expenses involved. 

Thank you, thank you, thank you for reading and following along with us on this epic journey of following Christ. We love you and praise God for you. He is the Amazing One -  astounding us every day, even on the very tough days. 

Tax-Deductible Giving: 

CHECKS TO: HEARTS IN ACTION INTL, INC.

Memo: Mexico Mission

Send to: 7104 Africa Road Galena, OH 43021

Online giving links:

• Staff & Intern Support
• Twist Kids' Club Outreach
  
• Crece Church Plant