San Luis de la Paz
Saturday-August 15, 2009
In 1 Timothy 4:12-15 Paul admonishes Timothy to be an example to other believers in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith and purity. He also encouraged him to read, stay attuned to doctrine and above all else not to neglect his gift. If he did all these things then he would be blessed and bless others, as well.
As we finished our week and headed back to Texas , our12 hour day on the road and an additional 2 hour wait to cross the border gave e all of us time to reflect on how we, like Timothy , were able to be an example and use our gifts to make a differenced in the lives of the Chichimeca Indians.
This summer I had the opportunity to be in a Beth Moore Bible Study of the book of Ester. Several passages from her study were especially relevant to our week in San Luis de la Paz. She stated that to live for the greatness of God is to live the great life, and this week was exactly that. She goes on to say “Every one of us who embraces the glory of God as our purpose will end up doing great things precisely because we do God-things. His holy hand resting on the least act renders that ordinary extraordinary.”
I was able to witness many of those small acts that were made extraordinary because they were done in the name of God’s love.
For example, when David stopped the van to get out and help a young man carry a wheelbarrow full of dirt over a concrete culvert; when Carlos sat brushed the hair of a little girl whose face was dirty and sadder than anyone’s I had ever seen; as Denise and Shirley helped Juanita prepare on the noon meals for all of our VBS workers and team members; as Phil, Keith and Pastor Alberto went out to show families how to start gardens, and when Angel Ibarra stopped the van to pick a mother and her four young children who needed a ride to the mission each day and then home again at night, and as the doctor, Olivia would treat the sick who came. These were only a few of the many things that were done in the name of God’s love.
Our week was indeed extraordinary!! And as Matthew 16: 24-26 reminds us, when you give up your life for Christ, he gives you a Christ-like life. Our prayer was that the Chichimecca people would see Christ in us through each small but hopefully significant act of kindness that we showed them.
What a joy it has been to serve the Lord this week! How rich we feel and how blessed! Praise God from whom all blessings flow.
Yours and His
Marie Davenport and the Chichimeca team.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Friday, August 14, 2009
2009 Chichimeca Mission Trip
Friday’s Blog
Today we had an opportunity to go into the center of town and distribute tracts along with Pastor Alberto and his wife Juanita and two young women who have been helping out this week from Mexico City. We walked around the town square and up and down the streets handing out tracts as we met individuals asking them if they would accept our gift. Most people accepted the tract without hesitation. A few refused to take it. But some asked what it was about. Those that asked we were able to then stop to explain about the Good News they were holding in their hands.
We were paired up in twos. Marie Davenport and I were together in this wonderful adventure. One man I handed a tract to at first didn’t seem to want to talk to me, but I could tell he was curious about what we had to say. So I talked with him a little bit and he became some what friendlier. I used the EvangeCube to share the gospel of Christ’s death and resurrection. He was very attentive and I invited him to visit the church to learn more about God and who He is. We left his store and walked around until we were out of tracts. Then I remembered I had a Spanish copy of Billy Graham’s booklet “How to Have Peace”. So we went back to find him and I was able to give in to him. He accepted it willingly and seemed appreciative that we came back. Please pray with me that he will read the information we gave him and continue to seek the truth of who God is and what He has to offer.
Some of us were able to pray with people for specific needs. Some of us were challenged about what we believe in. Specifically that Jesus is the Only Way and not through the Virgin Mary. Pastor Alberto told me of one lady who accepted the tract but then told him to throw it away. He told her, “You accepted it. If you don’t want it you throw it away,” which she did. But then he saw a young boy pick it up. We never know how the Gospel seed is planted, but I pray that the little boy will read the information and it will change his life.
While we were waiting for the group to return to our appointed gathering spot, I noticed two little boys with tracts in their hand running around the park saying “Flyers, we have flyers”. So I went over to them and asked if I could show them something. I used the EvangeCube again. The boys were young and couldn’t read so they didn’t know what their ‘flyers’ said. After I shared the message of Jesus Christ, and spoke with them a few minutes, I encouraged them to ask they parents to take them to the church at the address on the back, then I went on to meeting place. As I was walking away, I overhead one of the boys saying something about Christ dying on the cross and the bridge the cross provided. I pray that these boys also grow in Christ’s love.
We returned to the Mission to pack up supplies and say our goodbyes. This is always the hardest part of a mission trip. After the last box was loaded in the van we had a time of prayer. Pastor Alberto prayed for our safe journey as we all travel tomorrow. Then we prayed for their work and the many seeds that were planted this week. By the time the last amen was said there wasn’t a dry eye in the group. When we were getting into the vans there were several children outside playing who had been a part of the activities this week. I bent down and asked for hugs from them. Some were shy, but others were eager to put their arms around my neck and kiss my cheek. What a blessing to have been a part of this trip.
So after a day has been filled with many emotions we will now get the rest we need for the trip back. Please be in prayer for Charlotte as she goes to Queretero tomorrow to fly home. Pray for the two young women who will be riding the bus back home tomorrow. And pray for those of us who will be driving back Saturday and Sunday. We should arrive home early Sunday evening.
I just want to thank our church and Pastor Greg as you support all of our mission trips. What a wonderful experience to be a part of reaching others for God’s Kingdom.
Denise Terry
Today we had an opportunity to go into the center of town and distribute tracts along with Pastor Alberto and his wife Juanita and two young women who have been helping out this week from Mexico City. We walked around the town square and up and down the streets handing out tracts as we met individuals asking them if they would accept our gift. Most people accepted the tract without hesitation. A few refused to take it. But some asked what it was about. Those that asked we were able to then stop to explain about the Good News they were holding in their hands.
We were paired up in twos. Marie Davenport and I were together in this wonderful adventure. One man I handed a tract to at first didn’t seem to want to talk to me, but I could tell he was curious about what we had to say. So I talked with him a little bit and he became some what friendlier. I used the EvangeCube to share the gospel of Christ’s death and resurrection. He was very attentive and I invited him to visit the church to learn more about God and who He is. We left his store and walked around until we were out of tracts. Then I remembered I had a Spanish copy of Billy Graham’s booklet “How to Have Peace”. So we went back to find him and I was able to give in to him. He accepted it willingly and seemed appreciative that we came back. Please pray with me that he will read the information we gave him and continue to seek the truth of who God is and what He has to offer.
Some of us were able to pray with people for specific needs. Some of us were challenged about what we believe in. Specifically that Jesus is the Only Way and not through the Virgin Mary. Pastor Alberto told me of one lady who accepted the tract but then told him to throw it away. He told her, “You accepted it. If you don’t want it you throw it away,” which she did. But then he saw a young boy pick it up. We never know how the Gospel seed is planted, but I pray that the little boy will read the information and it will change his life.
While we were waiting for the group to return to our appointed gathering spot, I noticed two little boys with tracts in their hand running around the park saying “Flyers, we have flyers”. So I went over to them and asked if I could show them something. I used the EvangeCube again. The boys were young and couldn’t read so they didn’t know what their ‘flyers’ said. After I shared the message of Jesus Christ, and spoke with them a few minutes, I encouraged them to ask they parents to take them to the church at the address on the back, then I went on to meeting place. As I was walking away, I overhead one of the boys saying something about Christ dying on the cross and the bridge the cross provided. I pray that these boys also grow in Christ’s love.
We returned to the Mission to pack up supplies and say our goodbyes. This is always the hardest part of a mission trip. After the last box was loaded in the van we had a time of prayer. Pastor Alberto prayed for our safe journey as we all travel tomorrow. Then we prayed for their work and the many seeds that were planted this week. By the time the last amen was said there wasn’t a dry eye in the group. When we were getting into the vans there were several children outside playing who had been a part of the activities this week. I bent down and asked for hugs from them. Some were shy, but others were eager to put their arms around my neck and kiss my cheek. What a blessing to have been a part of this trip.
So after a day has been filled with many emotions we will now get the rest we need for the trip back. Please be in prayer for Charlotte as she goes to Queretero tomorrow to fly home. Pray for the two young women who will be riding the bus back home tomorrow. And pray for those of us who will be driving back Saturday and Sunday. We should arrive home early Sunday evening.
I just want to thank our church and Pastor Greg as you support all of our mission trips. What a wonderful experience to be a part of reaching others for God’s Kingdom.
Denise Terry
Thursday, August 13, 2009
2009 Chichimeca Mission Trip
Thursday 8-13-09
This has been the hardest day in my 3 trips to work with the Chichimec people. The day has been full of ups and downs and as of the time that I’m writing this the downs are winning. There is a fight for the people’s heart between God and evil. I don’t know I have ever been involved in anything like this. I’m truly shocked to see where the opposition to the Lord is coming from. I ask you to join in and pray for a change in these people hearts. I know that prayer is the only thing that will work and I need to turn it over to the Lord and let him be in control.
Any of you that know me know how much I love the children and it has been a true blessing to be with the kids. In this last day of VBS we had 80 children and it looked as if they really understanding about Christ and his love. Tonight was the Block Party which was held at the mission, we had around 180 people and purity much filled the salon area (Worship Center) for a movie and a meal and Pastor Alberto invitation.
Earlier in the day Phil, David, Charlotte, Pastor Alberto and I worked with a mom and her 3 boys on digging and planting a garden. The boys all worked very hard and were very proud when they finished. Pastor Alberto was very happy that the garden gave him the opportunity to present the word of god and about how the seeds need to be planted in good soil just as Jesus needs to be in a fertile heart so his love can grow in us.
I see God working in the children’s lives and I ask for you to pray for the continued growth in their life’s, it was so wonderful to have the children taking us to houses and helping pass out tracks. After writing this and reflecting on the wonderful things God has done I know the UP’S have won out in this day.
Thanks for your prayers.
Keith Baker
This has been the hardest day in my 3 trips to work with the Chichimec people. The day has been full of ups and downs and as of the time that I’m writing this the downs are winning. There is a fight for the people’s heart between God and evil. I don’t know I have ever been involved in anything like this. I’m truly shocked to see where the opposition to the Lord is coming from. I ask you to join in and pray for a change in these people hearts. I know that prayer is the only thing that will work and I need to turn it over to the Lord and let him be in control.
Any of you that know me know how much I love the children and it has been a true blessing to be with the kids. In this last day of VBS we had 80 children and it looked as if they really understanding about Christ and his love. Tonight was the Block Party which was held at the mission, we had around 180 people and purity much filled the salon area (Worship Center) for a movie and a meal and Pastor Alberto invitation.
Earlier in the day Phil, David, Charlotte, Pastor Alberto and I worked with a mom and her 3 boys on digging and planting a garden. The boys all worked very hard and were very proud when they finished. Pastor Alberto was very happy that the garden gave him the opportunity to present the word of god and about how the seeds need to be planted in good soil just as Jesus needs to be in a fertile heart so his love can grow in us.
I see God working in the children’s lives and I ask for you to pray for the continued growth in their life’s, it was so wonderful to have the children taking us to houses and helping pass out tracks. After writing this and reflecting on the wonderful things God has done I know the UP’S have won out in this day.
Thanks for your prayers.
Keith Baker
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
2009 Chichimeca Mission Trip
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
“Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings see what God has done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your many blessings see what God has done.”
If we begin naming our blessings one by one you will be reading for a long time because God is definitely at work in the Chichimeca reservation and in our lives. Yesterday we mentioned a “spiritual warfare” that we’ve been waging in this place--and that has kept us on our knees individually and as a team--, but we are feeling God’s presence in a very special way! We have seen a difference in the people and in the way they respond to us. Some smile (very timidly), others look down, others accept the invitation to come to the church/community center, others refuse the flyers, others listen carefully as we share the love of Christ for them and accept Him into their lives, others do not want to listen, others come in sad but leave with a smile after having been seen by the doctor… really not much different than the folk back home.
The homes of the people here are difficult to imagine, unless you’ve seen them. The homes are made of cinder blocks, and most are crudely made. Some are made of multiple types of bricks, probably because they were constructed as funds were available. Many homes house multiple families. The roads around the mission are only dirt and rocks. Few paved roads exist in the area where the mission is. During our Bible School story today the wind came up and we were all covered in dust! Many of the children attending wear the same clothes everyday. One little girl today had worn the same clothes Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. But today she had on different clothes.
This morning and until noon we had the opportunity to go walking around the reservation once again to invite others we had not reached yet, and 3 people – 2 ladies and 1 man – asked Christ to become their Lord and Savior. It is so touching to see them pray out loud asking the Lord into their lives. As we were walking back to the community center we spotted Pr. Alberto, Keith and Phil in the van coming back from planting a garden with a family from the church. They took us back to pick up Bibles and we all returned to give these 3 new Christians a Bible of their own. We had a good VBS with 61 children in attendance, many people were seen by the doctor, David and Shirley taught a few children to read, Carlos was the “receptionist” for the doctor and combed the hair of some of the little children who really needed it, Marie cut hair, Denise taught some ladies to sew, and the whole team was in action.
We count ourselves blessed to be here representing the Lord and FBC Garland, and we covet your prayers as we go through the activities of the day tomorrow followed by our big Block Party with a movie and a dedication time. On Friday we will be spending a big portion of our day at the Plaza downtown witnessing to those with whom we come in contact. Again we count on your prayer support. May the Lord bless you real good!!!
Charlotte, Patty and Denise
“Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings see what God has done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your many blessings see what God has done.”
If we begin naming our blessings one by one you will be reading for a long time because God is definitely at work in the Chichimeca reservation and in our lives. Yesterday we mentioned a “spiritual warfare” that we’ve been waging in this place--and that has kept us on our knees individually and as a team--, but we are feeling God’s presence in a very special way! We have seen a difference in the people and in the way they respond to us. Some smile (very timidly), others look down, others accept the invitation to come to the church/community center, others refuse the flyers, others listen carefully as we share the love of Christ for them and accept Him into their lives, others do not want to listen, others come in sad but leave with a smile after having been seen by the doctor… really not much different than the folk back home.
The homes of the people here are difficult to imagine, unless you’ve seen them. The homes are made of cinder blocks, and most are crudely made. Some are made of multiple types of bricks, probably because they were constructed as funds were available. Many homes house multiple families. The roads around the mission are only dirt and rocks. Few paved roads exist in the area where the mission is. During our Bible School story today the wind came up and we were all covered in dust! Many of the children attending wear the same clothes everyday. One little girl today had worn the same clothes Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. But today she had on different clothes.
This morning and until noon we had the opportunity to go walking around the reservation once again to invite others we had not reached yet, and 3 people – 2 ladies and 1 man – asked Christ to become their Lord and Savior. It is so touching to see them pray out loud asking the Lord into their lives. As we were walking back to the community center we spotted Pr. Alberto, Keith and Phil in the van coming back from planting a garden with a family from the church. They took us back to pick up Bibles and we all returned to give these 3 new Christians a Bible of their own. We had a good VBS with 61 children in attendance, many people were seen by the doctor, David and Shirley taught a few children to read, Carlos was the “receptionist” for the doctor and combed the hair of some of the little children who really needed it, Marie cut hair, Denise taught some ladies to sew, and the whole team was in action.
We count ourselves blessed to be here representing the Lord and FBC Garland, and we covet your prayers as we go through the activities of the day tomorrow followed by our big Block Party with a movie and a dedication time. On Friday we will be spending a big portion of our day at the Plaza downtown witnessing to those with whom we come in contact. Again we count on your prayer support. May the Lord bless you real good!!!
Charlotte, Patty and Denise
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
2009 Chichimeca Mission Trip
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
What fun we’ve had today participating in what the Lord is doing here among the Chichimecas. We began the day with our group devotional at the hotel –led by Patty Yost—who reminded us that this mission is about the Lord and not about us. As we
prayed we realized more than ever what a spiritual battle Pr. Alberto is waging among this people group. But we are confident that the Lord is in control and that His purpose will be served.
Our medical clinic is up and running and we are blessed to have Dr. Olivia, whom we met through our Hope Clinic, attending the physical as well as the spiritual needs of the patients. While the people are waiting to be seen we have the opportunity to share Christ with them and we rejoiced as an 18-year old young man prayed to receive Christ into his life. His Mom had accepted the Lord last year during the week we were here and she was so excited to see him take this step.
During the morning while some prepared for the VBS and the Seed Project, others of us had the opportunity to go visit and invite people to come participate in the activities at the Community Center. That was my favorite time. As I shared Christ with a family (the mother was sitting on a log making tortillas – 250 each day), the Dad, Mom and two teenage daughters prayed asking the Lord to come into their lives. Several others have experienced this same joy and we are definitely seeing God working. Please keep praying that MANY will come to know Him in a real personal way!
I mentioned the Seed Project – that will begin tomorrow and involves teaching three families how to make a garden and then help them plant a variety of seeds which include fruits and vegetables. These families will in turn teach this to others in the church so that they can grow their own food. The group today was counting seeds and placing them in little packets to be distributed among the folk.
Our Bible School was fun today with a total of about (it’s hard to count these kids) 62 kids and some Moms. We sit under Tents outside in the sun but the children don’t seem to mind the heat. In fact, many wear sweaters and wool caps all day long! The children are really enjoying singing (they’ve even learned a song in English) and their projects. In fact, it’s hard to get them to leave! After a 45 minute rest at the hotel we went back to the Mission to participate in their Tuesday night Prayer service and then back to “our” restaurant for dinner along with Pr. Alberto and his wife, Juanita. They are such a dedicated couple and literally give their lives to this work among the Chichimecas. Please pray for them too. He’s excited about the prospect of discipling the new Christians!
Keep on praying!!!
Representing you in His service,
Charlotte Greenhaw
What fun we’ve had today participating in what the Lord is doing here among the Chichimecas. We began the day with our group devotional at the hotel –led by Patty Yost—who reminded us that this mission is about the Lord and not about us. As we
prayed we realized more than ever what a spiritual battle Pr. Alberto is waging among this people group. But we are confident that the Lord is in control and that His purpose will be served.
Our medical clinic is up and running and we are blessed to have Dr. Olivia, whom we met through our Hope Clinic, attending the physical as well as the spiritual needs of the patients. While the people are waiting to be seen we have the opportunity to share Christ with them and we rejoiced as an 18-year old young man prayed to receive Christ into his life. His Mom had accepted the Lord last year during the week we were here and she was so excited to see him take this step.
During the morning while some prepared for the VBS and the Seed Project, others of us had the opportunity to go visit and invite people to come participate in the activities at the Community Center. That was my favorite time. As I shared Christ with a family (the mother was sitting on a log making tortillas – 250 each day), the Dad, Mom and two teenage daughters prayed asking the Lord to come into their lives. Several others have experienced this same joy and we are definitely seeing God working. Please keep praying that MANY will come to know Him in a real personal way!
I mentioned the Seed Project – that will begin tomorrow and involves teaching three families how to make a garden and then help them plant a variety of seeds which include fruits and vegetables. These families will in turn teach this to others in the church so that they can grow their own food. The group today was counting seeds and placing them in little packets to be distributed among the folk.
Our Bible School was fun today with a total of about (it’s hard to count these kids) 62 kids and some Moms. We sit under Tents outside in the sun but the children don’t seem to mind the heat. In fact, many wear sweaters and wool caps all day long! The children are really enjoying singing (they’ve even learned a song in English) and their projects. In fact, it’s hard to get them to leave! After a 45 minute rest at the hotel we went back to the Mission to participate in their Tuesday night Prayer service and then back to “our” restaurant for dinner along with Pr. Alberto and his wife, Juanita. They are such a dedicated couple and literally give their lives to this work among the Chichimecas. Please pray for them too. He’s excited about the prospect of discipling the new Christians!
Keep on praying!!!
Representing you in His service,
Charlotte Greenhaw
Monday, August 10, 2009
2009 Chichimeca Mission Trip
Monday, August 10, 2009
Today was the first full day of VBS, dentist, doctor and a block party. Wow, we had a lot to try and get done today. We started off by arriving at the mission around 9:00 and started setting up for the day. A few of the team members had to go to town to pick up medicine, groceries and some other supplies. While we were setting up people started arriving for the dentist, I don’t know how many she saw, but it had to be over 25. The team that went to town had challenges in finding medicine, or the places wanted to charge too much. We started VBS around 1:30 and had around 45 kids doing crafts, snacks, recreation and hearing God’s word. The Block Party started around 5:00 and we had around 50 kids doing games, snacks and watching a movie. We left the mission around 8:30, went to dinner at West Restaurant and returned back to our hotel around 10:30.
One of the things we are doing on this trip is we each have a “Barnabas Pal”. I have really enjoyed have a note from someone every morning with words of encouragement. One of the notes I received included a verse in 1 Peter 4:10-11 and it says; “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administrating God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ”. It is great to know that God gives each of us gifts and when we use them, God will provide the strength or anything else we need so that Jesus Christ will be praised.
Another verse I have been studying during my quite time comes from 2 Timothy 2:13 and it says; “If we have no faith, He will still be faithful, for He cannot go against what He is”. We are so blessed to have a God that no matter what we do, or even if we loose faith, He will not change. Not because of who or what we do, but because of who God is or what God does for us. Thanks for all the prayers and please continue until we get home.
In Christ we do all things,
David Reininger
Today was the first full day of VBS, dentist, doctor and a block party. Wow, we had a lot to try and get done today. We started off by arriving at the mission around 9:00 and started setting up for the day. A few of the team members had to go to town to pick up medicine, groceries and some other supplies. While we were setting up people started arriving for the dentist, I don’t know how many she saw, but it had to be over 25. The team that went to town had challenges in finding medicine, or the places wanted to charge too much. We started VBS around 1:30 and had around 45 kids doing crafts, snacks, recreation and hearing God’s word. The Block Party started around 5:00 and we had around 50 kids doing games, snacks and watching a movie. We left the mission around 8:30, went to dinner at West Restaurant and returned back to our hotel around 10:30.
One of the things we are doing on this trip is we each have a “Barnabas Pal”. I have really enjoyed have a note from someone every morning with words of encouragement. One of the notes I received included a verse in 1 Peter 4:10-11 and it says; “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administrating God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ”. It is great to know that God gives each of us gifts and when we use them, God will provide the strength or anything else we need so that Jesus Christ will be praised.
Another verse I have been studying during my quite time comes from 2 Timothy 2:13 and it says; “If we have no faith, He will still be faithful, for He cannot go against what He is”. We are so blessed to have a God that no matter what we do, or even if we loose faith, He will not change. Not because of who or what we do, but because of who God is or what God does for us. Thanks for all the prayers and please continue until we get home.
In Christ we do all things,
David Reininger
P.S. Did I mention we are having fun...
Sunday, August 9, 2009
2009 Chichimeca Mission Trip
Sunday Aug. 9, 2009
Today we gave God thanks for another beautiful and cool day. After breakfast we headed to First Baptist Church of San Luis de la Paz. We met with Pastor Alberto and it was a very warm greeting. He took us to the top of a mountain that overlooks the whole city. As we prayed for the lives of the people of San Luis to be transformed through Jesus Christ we could feel the Lord’s presence pouring out his love towards us. After taking in all the beauty of the City from the top of the mountain we headed back to church for service. I was captivated by the children. They were so friendly and very warm. Although they seem to have very little of everyday necessities they had a smile on their faces. They didn’t even realize that they were in need of the many things that we take for granted. They were so proud of the old and some even tattered clothes they wore that many of us wouldn’t dream of wearing. As we had service every one welcomed us with open arms. After the service was over, the whole church prepared lunch for us and we had a great time of fellowship. I met a family that shared all their hardships with me. The eldest daughter of four could not finish school because she had to help her family financially. Her last grade completed was 5th grade. The father is without a job and unsure of his future. It takes them an hour and a half to get to church because they have to walk all the way from their home to church, when it would take them about 20 minutes to get there if they had a car. I fell in love with them. Please pray for them they are the Alviso family. We headed to the Chichimeca reservation. I thought that I had seen the worst at First Baptist Church of San Luis, but I was wrong. There was even more poverty with the Chichimeca Indians. Even more old and tattered clothes. Something that was still the same was their unforgotten smile. I am so amazed of God’s mercy towards me. I have seen his mercy, but I’m still amazed. Last year it was a dream of mine to be here and thought I wouldn’t for many obstacles that were in the way of me being here, but look were God’s love has sent me. Please pray for us that God will work through us to win the lives of the people of Mexico for his glory.
In his service,
Shirley Galdamez
Today we gave God thanks for another beautiful and cool day. After breakfast we headed to First Baptist Church of San Luis de la Paz. We met with Pastor Alberto and it was a very warm greeting. He took us to the top of a mountain that overlooks the whole city. As we prayed for the lives of the people of San Luis to be transformed through Jesus Christ we could feel the Lord’s presence pouring out his love towards us. After taking in all the beauty of the City from the top of the mountain we headed back to church for service. I was captivated by the children. They were so friendly and very warm. Although they seem to have very little of everyday necessities they had a smile on their faces. They didn’t even realize that they were in need of the many things that we take for granted. They were so proud of the old and some even tattered clothes they wore that many of us wouldn’t dream of wearing. As we had service every one welcomed us with open arms. After the service was over, the whole church prepared lunch for us and we had a great time of fellowship. I met a family that shared all their hardships with me. The eldest daughter of four could not finish school because she had to help her family financially. Her last grade completed was 5th grade. The father is without a job and unsure of his future. It takes them an hour and a half to get to church because they have to walk all the way from their home to church, when it would take them about 20 minutes to get there if they had a car. I fell in love with them. Please pray for them they are the Alviso family. We headed to the Chichimeca reservation. I thought that I had seen the worst at First Baptist Church of San Luis, but I was wrong. There was even more poverty with the Chichimeca Indians. Even more old and tattered clothes. Something that was still the same was their unforgotten smile. I am so amazed of God’s mercy towards me. I have seen his mercy, but I’m still amazed. Last year it was a dream of mine to be here and thought I wouldn’t for many obstacles that were in the way of me being here, but look were God’s love has sent me. Please pray for us that God will work through us to win the lives of the people of Mexico for his glory.
In his service,
Shirley Galdamez
Saturday, August 8, 2009
2009 Chichimeca Mission Trip
San Luis de la Paz
August 8, 2009
What a trip—we left Garland, Friday at 5:15 and didn’t arrive at our Hotel in Satillo Mexico around 11:30 last night. We didn’t have any problems at the border but there were a lot of people trying to get into Mexico so we weren’t able to get stay on schedule. When we arrive in Monterey we were to pick up Carlos and encountered some problems. Needless to say we were really late by then but GOD always has a plan even though we might not see it. When we stopped to eat Jerry, my brother, and Shirley, FBC member, began to talk and witness to the lady at the check out. Shirley was able to share her personal testimony and the lady accepted Christ as here personal Savior. If we hadn’t been late we would have never stopped at that specific restaurant and Shirley would have never had a chance to talk with the lady. While all of this was happening I was only concerned about keeping a schedule and the LORD had a specific job for us to complete. This morning, as I was going over what happened yesterday the LORD began to open my eyes and mind on what had really happened and I began to praise the LORD and to see that I need to be open in every situation, to be ready to step forward and have the LORD work through me.
Today, Saturday, has been a long day of traveling but we have finally settled in for some rest and quiet time.
The mission team has been in continual prayer and we appreciate all of the prayers that are coming from each church member and our prayer partners. Tomorrow we start a new day and I pray that we have gotten enough rest both spiritually and physically to achieve great things for CHRIST.
In Christ
Phil Davenport and the Chichimeca Mission Team
Compelled by love to go……
2 Corinthians 5:14
August 8, 2009
What a trip—we left Garland, Friday at 5:15 and didn’t arrive at our Hotel in Satillo Mexico around 11:30 last night. We didn’t have any problems at the border but there were a lot of people trying to get into Mexico so we weren’t able to get stay on schedule. When we arrive in Monterey we were to pick up Carlos and encountered some problems. Needless to say we were really late by then but GOD always has a plan even though we might not see it. When we stopped to eat Jerry, my brother, and Shirley, FBC member, began to talk and witness to the lady at the check out. Shirley was able to share her personal testimony and the lady accepted Christ as here personal Savior. If we hadn’t been late we would have never stopped at that specific restaurant and Shirley would have never had a chance to talk with the lady. While all of this was happening I was only concerned about keeping a schedule and the LORD had a specific job for us to complete. This morning, as I was going over what happened yesterday the LORD began to open my eyes and mind on what had really happened and I began to praise the LORD and to see that I need to be open in every situation, to be ready to step forward and have the LORD work through me.
Today, Saturday, has been a long day of traveling but we have finally settled in for some rest and quiet time.
The mission team has been in continual prayer and we appreciate all of the prayers that are coming from each church member and our prayer partners. Tomorrow we start a new day and I pray that we have gotten enough rest both spiritually and physically to achieve great things for CHRIST.
In Christ
Phil Davenport and the Chichimeca Mission Team
Compelled by love to go……
2 Corinthians 5:14
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Family Mission Trip 2009
Thursday, July 23, and Friday, July 24:
Last night, Thursday, we had another great day of ESL, construction, and VBS. God, once again, blessed us with an amazing turn out. The construction crew, made huge progress, the ESL classes went very, very well, and the VBS team was able to present the plan of Salvation to the children. Yesterday, three young ladies and one young man accepted the Lord as their personal Savior. Praise God! It was truly exciting to see God working in the lives of these children, and to be a part of that is also truly amazing.
We had our second Block Party last night, this time at the church. We had a pretty good turn out. It was so fun to see the kids having a blast at the games. You could see the love of Christ being shown to the kids and their families as our team served them hot dogs, chips, water and candy. I think most of the families who stayed for the movie, Facing the Giants, were members of the church. There may not have been public professions of faith, but I believe God still worked in many lives through that powerful movie.
One evidence of God’s movement during these Block Parties was shown last night. A man had come by himself to the movie, Fireproof, at the Park. Part way through the movie, he said “That is my life. This is me.” He got up, went home, and apologized to his wife for the way he’d been treating her. She must have seen a genuine change in him because she returned to the block party with him to finish the rest of the movie. She came to our second party because she thought they were going to show the same movie. She wanted to see the beginning of this God-touched movie. God used a movie, shown at a block party in Penitas, TX put on by a bunch of white, English speaking people from Garland to minister to this couple and many other families and individuals. This is what our work is all about.
Today, Friday, was our last day here. I think it was bittersweet for many of us. We are all feeling the physical exhaustion, but I think we will all miss the wonderful friends that we have made or strengthened this week. For myself, I have been such blessed by these amazing people in Penitas, but also by the amazing and incredible team that has come down here.
The construction crew, continued to work through the heat and sweat and did an outstanding job. They have about 99% of the lower floor of the new life center completely framed, and about 20% of the second floor. They have done so much for this church. I know the church and community will be greatly blessed by their efforts. This new building will house classrooms, a gymnasium, food pantry, and possibly more. Because of our team’s hard work, love, and efforts, many people will come to know Christ better. Thank y’all so much! It’s been a blessing to get to know you!
The ESL teams didn’t end up this week as had been planned, but God had a different plan in mind for these groups. He took away some students from learning English, but placed more people in a class where they can learn to teach others English. God knows exactly what His people need, and I believe He provided for them this week. Thank you for being flexible to what God directed.
The VBS team also had their last day of the Esquela de Biblica. As always, it’s a blessing to see their smiling faces and see how our group interacts with them. Our translators did a fantastic job communicating what so many of us could not. Thank you for your extra efforts. Many of the children did speak English, but even those who didn’t, could still feel the love of Christ pouring from our team. It was such a blessing to witness.
Tonight at our reflection service, we got to witness what church on Sundays probably looks like. It was so special to be able to participate together with them in worshipping our Savior. I don’t think there was one person in the building who wasn’t touched in some way.
I want to thank every person who went on this trip, every person who stayed at home and prayed for us, and every person who donated money to make this trip possible. Souls were saved, lives were changed, and families have been impacted because of your willingness to follow and serve Christ in the way He has called you. Thank you for allowing your time, efforts, and money to be a blessing to God’s children.
Please continue to pray for our group as we travel home tomorrow. Thank you!!
Last night, Thursday, we had another great day of ESL, construction, and VBS. God, once again, blessed us with an amazing turn out. The construction crew, made huge progress, the ESL classes went very, very well, and the VBS team was able to present the plan of Salvation to the children. Yesterday, three young ladies and one young man accepted the Lord as their personal Savior. Praise God! It was truly exciting to see God working in the lives of these children, and to be a part of that is also truly amazing.
We had our second Block Party last night, this time at the church. We had a pretty good turn out. It was so fun to see the kids having a blast at the games. You could see the love of Christ being shown to the kids and their families as our team served them hot dogs, chips, water and candy. I think most of the families who stayed for the movie, Facing the Giants, were members of the church. There may not have been public professions of faith, but I believe God still worked in many lives through that powerful movie.
One evidence of God’s movement during these Block Parties was shown last night. A man had come by himself to the movie, Fireproof, at the Park. Part way through the movie, he said “That is my life. This is me.” He got up, went home, and apologized to his wife for the way he’d been treating her. She must have seen a genuine change in him because she returned to the block party with him to finish the rest of the movie. She came to our second party because she thought they were going to show the same movie. She wanted to see the beginning of this God-touched movie. God used a movie, shown at a block party in Penitas, TX put on by a bunch of white, English speaking people from Garland to minister to this couple and many other families and individuals. This is what our work is all about.
Today, Friday, was our last day here. I think it was bittersweet for many of us. We are all feeling the physical exhaustion, but I think we will all miss the wonderful friends that we have made or strengthened this week. For myself, I have been such blessed by these amazing people in Penitas, but also by the amazing and incredible team that has come down here.
The construction crew, continued to work through the heat and sweat and did an outstanding job. They have about 99% of the lower floor of the new life center completely framed, and about 20% of the second floor. They have done so much for this church. I know the church and community will be greatly blessed by their efforts. This new building will house classrooms, a gymnasium, food pantry, and possibly more. Because of our team’s hard work, love, and efforts, many people will come to know Christ better. Thank y’all so much! It’s been a blessing to get to know you!
The ESL teams didn’t end up this week as had been planned, but God had a different plan in mind for these groups. He took away some students from learning English, but placed more people in a class where they can learn to teach others English. God knows exactly what His people need, and I believe He provided for them this week. Thank you for being flexible to what God directed.
The VBS team also had their last day of the Esquela de Biblica. As always, it’s a blessing to see their smiling faces and see how our group interacts with them. Our translators did a fantastic job communicating what so many of us could not. Thank you for your extra efforts. Many of the children did speak English, but even those who didn’t, could still feel the love of Christ pouring from our team. It was such a blessing to witness.
Tonight at our reflection service, we got to witness what church on Sundays probably looks like. It was so special to be able to participate together with them in worshipping our Savior. I don’t think there was one person in the building who wasn’t touched in some way.
I want to thank every person who went on this trip, every person who stayed at home and prayed for us, and every person who donated money to make this trip possible. Souls were saved, lives were changed, and families have been impacted because of your willingness to follow and serve Christ in the way He has called you. Thank you for allowing your time, efforts, and money to be a blessing to God’s children.
Please continue to pray for our group as we travel home tomorrow. Thank you!!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Family Mission Trip 2009
Wednesday, July 22:
God, once again, blessed us with many kids attending VBS. We had 17 new students today! A couple of the moms stayed with the kids during the day, so they were also able to hear the Bible story taught.
The ESL teams were also very blessed today. The ESL workshop class, a class that is teaching people how to teach English to others, still had more numbers than expected and even had one new student. The ESL class had two new students today, and we are very grateful for that.
The Construction team continues to work tirelessly on the church's building. It is incredible to see them working non-stop and to see the fruits of their labor come to harvest. They work past the pain, past the heat and thirst, and despite their tiredness. As Ivan Fernandez said in the devotion today, we are not just building a building, we are building for the Kingdom of Heaven.
We saw some of that labor come to fruition today at the Block Party. There ended up being a soccer tournament at the park we were setting up at, so the numbers we had planned for were greatly exceeded. I am not sure how many people were in attendance today, but we served over 450 hot dogs to those there. The kids absolutely loved the games we had set up and thoroughly enjoyed getting the "dulces." Seeing their sweet faces as they got the candy was so very precious.
At 8:00, Pastor Omar introduced the movie "Fireproof" to the crowd. We played the movie for those that wanted to watch it, and at the end, Pastor Omar gave an invitation. You could tell God was already wanting to move in the crowd because part way through the movie, a fight broke out between some soccer players. Satan was doing all he could to distract those God was wanting to witness to tonight. But satan did not succeed because God certainly moved in those that chose to stay to the end of the movie. I do not know numbers, but probably around 10 or 15 people came forward after the invitation. God is so good!!
Please continue to pray for our group. Tomorrow all four programs will continue, and we will also have another Block Party at the church tomorrow night.
Thank you very much for your continued prayer!
(Pictures from tonight's Block Party will be added as soon as possible.)
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Family Mission Trip 2009
Tuesday, July 21:
God has blessed us immensely this trip. The building is coming along incredibly. It hardly looks like the same place, and this is only the second day. The progress will be such a blessing for the church. Pray for cool weather and everyone's continued safety.
The ESL workshop program almost quadrupled in size. Monday they had 3 people that they were teaching how to teach an ESL class, and today they had 11 people. Dick and Barbara Borth had only planned on 6 at the most, but we very excited that there was a need to make more copies of the materials. The actual ESL class will more than likely have a bigger class tomorrow as time constraints for the participants will not be as huge.
VBS began today. When our workers got there (early) most of the children were already there waiting for us. So VBS started a little early. We had 25 children attend, and it was exciting to see personalitlies bloom as the day wore on. Everyone is excited to continue ministering to these kids and are praying for more kids to be able to attend.
The Block Party that we will have tomorrow night at a Park is starting to come together. 300+ Fliers were passed out in the neighborhood surrounding the park, so we're hoping that many will attend this evangelistic party and hear of God's amazing love for them.
Please continue to keep us in your prayers as well as the people we will be ministering to. Thank you very much for partnering with us in this exciting journey!
God has blessed us immensely this trip. The building is coming along incredibly. It hardly looks like the same place, and this is only the second day. The progress will be such a blessing for the church. Pray for cool weather and everyone's continued safety.
The ESL workshop program almost quadrupled in size. Monday they had 3 people that they were teaching how to teach an ESL class, and today they had 11 people. Dick and Barbara Borth had only planned on 6 at the most, but we very excited that there was a need to make more copies of the materials. The actual ESL class will more than likely have a bigger class tomorrow as time constraints for the participants will not be as huge.
VBS began today. When our workers got there (early) most of the children were already there waiting for us. So VBS started a little early. We had 25 children attend, and it was exciting to see personalitlies bloom as the day wore on. Everyone is excited to continue ministering to these kids and are praying for more kids to be able to attend.
The Block Party that we will have tomorrow night at a Park is starting to come together. 300+ Fliers were passed out in the neighborhood surrounding the park, so we're hoping that many will attend this evangelistic party and hear of God's amazing love for them.
Please continue to keep us in your prayers as well as the people we will be ministering to. Thank you very much for partnering with us in this exciting journey!
Monday, July 20, 2009
Family Mission Trip 2009
Monday, July 20:
Today, our work at the church began. The Construction team worked for hours framing the inside of the building. It was amaizing to see how much could be accomplished when the workers are so diligent. The ESL classes went well and are ready for another day. Decorations are in place, the workers are ready, and the excitement is building as VBS starts tomorrow!
Today was our afternoon off, so we had one group go fishing and one group went to the beach in South Padre Island. God was so good to keep us all safe throughout this time, and He showed us once again how trustworthy He is.
Today, our work at the church began. The Construction team worked for hours framing the inside of the building. It was amaizing to see how much could be accomplished when the workers are so diligent. The ESL classes went well and are ready for another day. Decorations are in place, the workers are ready, and the excitement is building as VBS starts tomorrow!
Today was our afternoon off, so we had one group go fishing and one group went to the beach in South Padre Island. God was so good to keep us all safe throughout this time, and He showed us once again how trustworthy He is.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Family Mission Trip 2009
Sunday, July 19:
We got an early start to our travels this morning, and by the end of the day, everyone arrived safely in the Rio Grande Valley. God is good to provide us a safe and fun journey. Although most are already tired, I think all will say we're excited to begin our work here in the Valley. We're praying that God will show himself to the people here as well as to our own group. We're praying for soft hearts and willing spirits. Please continue to keep us in your prayers this week. Can't wait to report to y'all what God is doing!
We got an early start to our travels this morning, and by the end of the day, everyone arrived safely in the Rio Grande Valley. God is good to provide us a safe and fun journey. Although most are already tired, I think all will say we're excited to begin our work here in the Valley. We're praying that God will show himself to the people here as well as to our own group. We're praying for soft hearts and willing spirits. Please continue to keep us in your prayers this week. Can't wait to report to y'all what God is doing!
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