I just feel an overwhelming sensation to praise the Lord tonight and I wondered if you might join me in worshipping our King and Creator, the Almighty God himself...
Matt and I and the kids have started going to the Tuesday night prayer services in Los Guido in an attempt to reconnect with our church family there. As many of you know, the past two trimesters of school we have not done much else in the ministry aside from attending church, and for the past trimester - just in Tejarcillos. Now that we have a much more flexible schedule, we are easing into the ministry more and more, which accounts for some of my joy tonight. Finally being able to be in the ministry is SO wonderful! Finally we are beginning to be able to do what God has called us here to do.
Last week, Pastor Marvin spoke about the delight God has in his children; the joy he has when they are born; and his enjoyment in seeing us walk with him. Tonight, he related some of the same to Noah and the life he led. Marvin spoke about 5 things that make God smile and used the life of Noah to illustrate these five things.
These are the some things that make God smile:
1. When we love him above all else
2. When we trust in him
3. When we obey him
4. When we worship him and give him thanks
5. When we use our abilities in ways that are pleasing to him
Marvin spoke about how there were so many questions that surely arose when God told Noah to build the ark, but Noah did not once bother God with questions, he simply trusted him, obeyed him and used the abilities God had given him to construct the ark. Noah was the only true, honest and just man God could find on all the earth. Because of this God chose to save him and his family from the flood and to build the ark. Noah loved God above all else and used his life to continually worship and give thanks to God the Father.
I was very intrigued to tonight's message because I know how often I personally let things of the world creep ahead of my love for God. I know how often I have not immediately obeyed when God has called to me. I know how often I have asked question after question and let doubt creep in and get in the way of pure sweet trusting in the Lord. I know how lazy I get in the little things in life and they became mundane and in no way do I reflect a sense of worshipping God Almighty while doing them. I fall guilty of laziness when it comes to using every gift and ability God has given me to glorify and honor the Lord.
I say all of this because although Noah was the only man to find favor in the eyes of the Lord, he was still a sinner, like me and like you. The the story of Noah is one of hope- hope found only in God the Father, maker of heaven and earth. And no matter how many times I may fall or you may fall, he is always there to pick us right back up, take us into his arms, smile at us and get us going again.
There have been times in my life where God has surely smiled upon me. It is my sincere prayer that there are far more times where he smiles at me then not in my lifetime here on earth.
Tonight I was reminded that this past 9 months spent in language school, struggling to balance life as a daughter of the King, wife, mother, missionary and student were not of waste. Tonight, I was able to sit and translate the service for the Wood family, who are visiting here for the week. Although several times I had to wait for several sentences to go by to get the idea of what was being said, I was able to (I think) effectively portray the jist of the message. My prayer is that this gift that God has given me can be used for the rest of my life to convey just what I did tonight- His Holy Word. (I say "gift" because to me it is just that and it is not something I could have ever purchased or gained by myself, but knowing he has placed within me this ability to speak Spanish). What a blessing to be able to relay the scriptures from one culture to another. Taxing and tiring, yes, I will admit. I definitely had to pay close attention, but I must say (eekk...If I say this I will for sure have a new job if Mark reads this...)...it was somewhat fun :) I am sure I am pretty weird and most who speak another language would not say translating is fun, but I have never claimed to be normal...why start now?? :)
All of this to say, somehow in my mind all of this connects to Ecclesiastes chapter 3and also leads to my thoughts of praise for the Lord. As of today, it is with joy I say that we have seen the Lord answer almost every one of our prayer requests from the last two months that were about tangible items pertaining to finances. It seems God may have planned to answer even the one remaining.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-14 says:
"There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under heaven;
a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain,
a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.
What does the worker gain from his toil? I have not seen the burden God has laid on men. He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. I know that there is nothing better for man than to be happy and do good while they live. That everyone may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all his toil- this is the gift of God. I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing can be taken from it. God does it so that men will revere him."
This week, I have been pondering the last two years of my life and tonight after the message, even more so. The passage from Ecclesiastes really hit home as I thought about all that God has done in my life in the past two years. It was two years and 9 days ago that I first came to Costa Rica. I can still remember those first few days in the country that would soon become my home...Since then, I have seen times of planting and times of uprooting; seen times of killing and times of healing; seen things torn down, but also things being built up; I've wept like I've never wept in the past two years, but laughed like I never thought I would as well...I've mourned as well as danced; had to scatter some stones, but gathered so many more; I've felt loving embraces and felt the need to refrain as well...I've searched and searched for some things...and given the search up for a time on a few things...Kept a few things but thrown a lot more away (or given or sold)...In the past two years there have been some things in my life that have been torn, but in some things I can praise the Lord and call mended...I've felt myself strain to be silent and also felt free to speak...loved alot and hated a little...felt at war many, many times, but through it all felt a peace like no other.
What is about God that he can make the scripture come alive in such new ways at times when it is so perfect. I've read that passage in may life probably a hundred times, but never have I stopped to reflect its personal real meaning in my life.
My joy tonight comes at the peak of many storms that have been brewing in my heart. I have many real, deep prayers that I have offered to the Lord in the past few days and I'll admit was beginning to feel down, until tonight. I am thankful for people God has placed in my life like Marvin Villalobos, who have always spoke the Truth of God's word into my life since I met him two years ago.
Tonight, while there is sadness in my heart for things and people in my life, there is an unmistakable joy that rests in knowing and believing in the Word of God that promises us that "everything that God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing will be taken away."
Joy me tonight in praising our Creator...Worship and thank him for the great things he has done...and feel him smile upon you...
Just a glimpse into our lives following JESUS as He leads us to serve Him in the nations. Thanks for stopping by!
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Thursday, May 22, 2008
I'm here!!!
Sorry for the lack of posts lately...
Matt started classes last Wednesday and the kids and I started homeschooling Monday with the kids. We've settled back into a routine and it good to be home.
Homeschooling is FANTASTIC!!!!!! The kids are doing well and I LOVE it!!! Tuesday we went to the park and learned about force, energy and work for science. After going through the book with Ethan (while the girls were listening)and experimenting with a few things around the house, we took the soccer ball and went to the park and Ethan demonstrated to the girls and I the use of force, energy and work. It was so cool and they all three learned from it! Yesterday, Lucia was here helping us and she spent time with each of the kids practicing their Spanish. Isabelle loves to be with Lucia helping her and at the end of the day, her and Lucia had a tea party. It was beautiful!
I love that God is showing me how to use what he has given us in this world and the people and places around us to teach my children in a real tangible way. Homeschooling is amazing! Not to mention how much I LOVE being back home with the kids!
Matt has decided to drop his conversation class at the institute. He will still be taking grammar, but will spend the morning utilizing the native speakers God has given us right next door. He will be meeting with Coco and also Mariana and Valeria to spend time conversing with them. Also, he'll have the opportunity to be in the ministry during this time, again conversing with native speakers. It seems to be the best option for him and we are all excited for him to have this opportunity.
We've enjoyed the company of many visitors lately. Alex's parents and sister were here for a short visit. It was great meeting his sister and seeing his parents again.
Here is a picture after church on Sunday in Pastor Rogelio's home.
And we also have been spending time with the Droke family. They are here with visiting until tomorrow. We've shared meals, ministry, fun and good conversation with them. Check out www.clfcostarica.com and click on team blogs to read their blog.
We are becoming increasingly aware of the blessings God continues to give us. We have prayed for a vehicle for almost a year now and while we still do not have one, we are confident that God will provide when the time it is absolutely necessary for us to have one...for now we have made our life walking and using public transportation and grown accustomed to. This week, we've become aware of some of the downfalls of having a vehicle in a foreign country like re-occurring flat tires during rainy season, hit and run accidents where you find yourself in a place where even the insurance agent won't come into because of the danger of the place itself, too much smoke emission from your muffler and the trouble that brings you, and just being at the mercy of the government officials here. Maybe it has been a blessing in disguise to NOT have had a vehicle at least during this first stage of life here. God knows so infinitely more than we do about things like this and his ways are always perfect! As we continue to pray for a vehicle, we also pray that we never take for granted our situation or circumstance as we live in it. But also we thank all of you who sacrificially give so that we may be here.
I have many more things to post about, but I have to start the school day!! More to come later!
Matt started classes last Wednesday and the kids and I started homeschooling Monday with the kids. We've settled back into a routine and it good to be home.
Homeschooling is FANTASTIC!!!!!! The kids are doing well and I LOVE it!!! Tuesday we went to the park and learned about force, energy and work for science. After going through the book with Ethan (while the girls were listening)and experimenting with a few things around the house, we took the soccer ball and went to the park and Ethan demonstrated to the girls and I the use of force, energy and work. It was so cool and they all three learned from it! Yesterday, Lucia was here helping us and she spent time with each of the kids practicing their Spanish. Isabelle loves to be with Lucia helping her and at the end of the day, her and Lucia had a tea party. It was beautiful!
I love that God is showing me how to use what he has given us in this world and the people and places around us to teach my children in a real tangible way. Homeschooling is amazing! Not to mention how much I LOVE being back home with the kids!
Matt has decided to drop his conversation class at the institute. He will still be taking grammar, but will spend the morning utilizing the native speakers God has given us right next door. He will be meeting with Coco and also Mariana and Valeria to spend time conversing with them. Also, he'll have the opportunity to be in the ministry during this time, again conversing with native speakers. It seems to be the best option for him and we are all excited for him to have this opportunity.
We've enjoyed the company of many visitors lately. Alex's parents and sister were here for a short visit. It was great meeting his sister and seeing his parents again.
Here is a picture after church on Sunday in Pastor Rogelio's home.
And we also have been spending time with the Droke family. They are here with visiting until tomorrow. We've shared meals, ministry, fun and good conversation with them. Check out www.clfcostarica.com and click on team blogs to read their blog.
We are becoming increasingly aware of the blessings God continues to give us. We have prayed for a vehicle for almost a year now and while we still do not have one, we are confident that God will provide when the time it is absolutely necessary for us to have one...for now we have made our life walking and using public transportation and grown accustomed to. This week, we've become aware of some of the downfalls of having a vehicle in a foreign country like re-occurring flat tires during rainy season, hit and run accidents where you find yourself in a place where even the insurance agent won't come into because of the danger of the place itself, too much smoke emission from your muffler and the trouble that brings you, and just being at the mercy of the government officials here. Maybe it has been a blessing in disguise to NOT have had a vehicle at least during this first stage of life here. God knows so infinitely more than we do about things like this and his ways are always perfect! As we continue to pray for a vehicle, we also pray that we never take for granted our situation or circumstance as we live in it. But also we thank all of you who sacrificially give so that we may be here.
I have many more things to post about, but I have to start the school day!! More to come later!
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Home Sweet Home
We made it home last night sometime after midnight, after a delayed flight in Miami.
We had a fantastic time in Frankfort and in Illinois with Mark and Meg.
We spent time with our church family and a few other friends and family Friday night. What a blessing to be with them again. It was encouraging and exciting to be with them and Mark and Meg, now after serving with Mark and Meg for the past nine months. We are blessed to have the covering of their prayers. It was hard to say goodbye to them, especially hard for me to say goodbye to some of my youth group girls. (Te quiero mucho, mis amigas!)
We spent some time getting to know some friends from EWO on their turf and it was such a blessing to get to see them again. The biggest blessing for me was the gift of having my parents travel with us to Illinois and share in the fellowship we had with this church family. My dad had never met Mark and Meg, so it was really encouraging for me to have the pleasure to introduce them. Matt and I were really blessed to share time with Rod and Cathy and their kids. We appreciate our friends at EWO in Normal, Illinois!
After travelling from Bloomington, IL to Naperville for the last night of our time in the states we were all pretty wiped. But we really enjoyed fellowship with some of Mark and Meg's closest friends on Sunday night. It was fun seeing them in their element with their oldest friends.
After two uneventful flights, we made it back and today have been unpacking and reorganizing and getting some errands done. Tomorrow, Matt will start back at school, although classes actually began last Wednesday. The kids and will will finish up their school year within the next few weeks and then will have the summer off. I'll begin tutoring soon. I will also begin discipling a teacher friend of mine this week or next. Please pray for this relationship to bloom and for her to grow in the Lord. More to come on this in the future.
We enjoyed our time in the states, but truly are glad to be home. We have realized that despite the pain we have when the time comes to say goodbye to loved ones, we are truly called to be here in Costa Rica. And, for now, Costa Rica is our home. Near the end of the trip, Audrey had begun asking us if we could just go back home to Costa Rica. What a blessing from the Lord for even our youngest child to have grasped where our home is now...We are thankful for the many blessings the Lord provided while we were on our trip. We are also thankful and appreciative of all who sacrificed for our benefit and to meet our needs in the way of a vehicle, financially, through shelter, meals or just providing fellowship. We thank the Lord Jesus Christ for all of our partnering friends, family and church families.
We had a fantastic time in Frankfort and in Illinois with Mark and Meg.
We spent time with our church family and a few other friends and family Friday night. What a blessing to be with them again. It was encouraging and exciting to be with them and Mark and Meg, now after serving with Mark and Meg for the past nine months. We are blessed to have the covering of their prayers. It was hard to say goodbye to them, especially hard for me to say goodbye to some of my youth group girls. (Te quiero mucho, mis amigas!)
We spent some time getting to know some friends from EWO on their turf and it was such a blessing to get to see them again. The biggest blessing for me was the gift of having my parents travel with us to Illinois and share in the fellowship we had with this church family. My dad had never met Mark and Meg, so it was really encouraging for me to have the pleasure to introduce them. Matt and I were really blessed to share time with Rod and Cathy and their kids. We appreciate our friends at EWO in Normal, Illinois!
After travelling from Bloomington, IL to Naperville for the last night of our time in the states we were all pretty wiped. But we really enjoyed fellowship with some of Mark and Meg's closest friends on Sunday night. It was fun seeing them in their element with their oldest friends.
After two uneventful flights, we made it back and today have been unpacking and reorganizing and getting some errands done. Tomorrow, Matt will start back at school, although classes actually began last Wednesday. The kids and will will finish up their school year within the next few weeks and then will have the summer off. I'll begin tutoring soon. I will also begin discipling a teacher friend of mine this week or next. Please pray for this relationship to bloom and for her to grow in the Lord. More to come on this in the future.
We enjoyed our time in the states, but truly are glad to be home. We have realized that despite the pain we have when the time comes to say goodbye to loved ones, we are truly called to be here in Costa Rica. And, for now, Costa Rica is our home. Near the end of the trip, Audrey had begun asking us if we could just go back home to Costa Rica. What a blessing from the Lord for even our youngest child to have grasped where our home is now...We are thankful for the many blessings the Lord provided while we were on our trip. We are also thankful and appreciative of all who sacrificed for our benefit and to meet our needs in the way of a vehicle, financially, through shelter, meals or just providing fellowship. We thank the Lord Jesus Christ for all of our partnering friends, family and church families.
Friday, May 9, 2008
HAPPY BIRTHDAY ETHAN!
Today is Ethan's 8th Birthday! Last night we celebrated with some of our closest friends and family at Chucke E. Cheeses in Lafayette. The kids had a fantastic time as did the adults! (Matt and I were even able to play a few games of air hockey!)Please remeber our son today in your prayers. We pray always for his heart to belong to Jesus.
Today is our last day in Indiana. We've had such a wonderful time these past two and a half weeks. It has been such a joy to be with my brother and his family this week.
Tonight we meet up with Mark and Meg in Frankfort and we are excited about that!
Today begins the process of goodbyes with family, as we will be leaving tomorrow morning for Illinnois. Pray for our time with the folks at EWO and that as a team we will be glorifying to Christ throughout our time with them.
If you could pray for our family and friends and our family as well during this time- we would appreciate it.
My parents will be travelling with us to Ilinois- Praise the Lord!
I will post more after we return to Costa Rica on Monday!
Today is our last day in Indiana. We've had such a wonderful time these past two and a half weeks. It has been such a joy to be with my brother and his family this week.
Tonight we meet up with Mark and Meg in Frankfort and we are excited about that!
Today begins the process of goodbyes with family, as we will be leaving tomorrow morning for Illinnois. Pray for our time with the folks at EWO and that as a team we will be glorifying to Christ throughout our time with them.
If you could pray for our family and friends and our family as well during this time- we would appreciate it.
My parents will be travelling with us to Ilinois- Praise the Lord!
I will post more after we return to Costa Rica on Monday!
Sunday, May 4, 2008
update
Hi! Just checking in...we've had a busy several days. Last Thursday we shared a meal and fellowship with several dear friends. It was fantastic to see them again and sit and share with them about life. Friday evening was night of the same only with a different group of friends. These two evenings were relaxing and so enjoyable for us and we are so thankful to our friends for their willingness to open their homes to us and others. Saturday, Matt and I had a date with Mark and Angyl, Matt's brother and his wife. We saw a movie and ate a late breakfast. Afterwards we headed to Sam's (my brother) to settle in for the next week. We had a birthday party for my side of the family and had a great time. It was the first time most of us had met Sam's fiance Laura and her daughter Kaya. They are very sweet and kind. I especially enjoyed this time with my family. It was fun for our kids to be able to "celebrate" their birthdays with Ging-ging!
Today was somewhat of a whirlwind of a day, but wow what a great day! We visited with three different church families and were able to share the great things God is doing in our lives and in Costa Rica. We started out at the Brethern Church in Rossville where we spoke in the Sunday School hour. It was fun to see some familiar faces in the crowd and they were very welcoming and loving to our family. Then we headed off to the Rossville Presbyterian Church. this was particularly special to me because this was my Gran's church. I actually was a part of this church during different times in my life and some people there have known me my whole life. It was emotional at times but definitely encouraging and exciting to be partnering with them. After a brief rest, we headed off to Delphi and the Hickory Grove deacon board. We met in the home friends and spent about four hours talking and getting to know the leadership of the church. We were so encouraged by this group of people. We could hardly stop talking because we were so excited talking with them.
God has plans that he has already set in motion and we have no control over them. He are so excited to share with anyone who will listen about our lives and what God has done and is doing in Costa Rica. We know some will "get it" and some won't. We know some will be so excited that they'll desire to join the CLFCR team by supporting prayerfully and financially. We know that some will even be called to serve with us in Costa Rica. But whatever happens with the contacts God has given us, we pray He will be glorified in everything we say.
Thank you Father for this trip. Thank you for the many people you've allowed us to share with. I pray for the lost family we have - those that are searching for the answers, for that something to fill that whole in their heart that only you can fill. I am thankful for the time we've had with family, however short it may feel. I pray Father in this moment for the churches of Tejarcillos and Los Guido, for pastor Marvin and pastor Rogelio. Thank you for your Son Jesus and may he be glorified in our lives.
Today was somewhat of a whirlwind of a day, but wow what a great day! We visited with three different church families and were able to share the great things God is doing in our lives and in Costa Rica. We started out at the Brethern Church in Rossville where we spoke in the Sunday School hour. It was fun to see some familiar faces in the crowd and they were very welcoming and loving to our family. Then we headed off to the Rossville Presbyterian Church. this was particularly special to me because this was my Gran's church. I actually was a part of this church during different times in my life and some people there have known me my whole life. It was emotional at times but definitely encouraging and exciting to be partnering with them. After a brief rest, we headed off to Delphi and the Hickory Grove deacon board. We met in the home friends and spent about four hours talking and getting to know the leadership of the church. We were so encouraged by this group of people. We could hardly stop talking because we were so excited talking with them.
God has plans that he has already set in motion and we have no control over them. He are so excited to share with anyone who will listen about our lives and what God has done and is doing in Costa Rica. We know some will "get it" and some won't. We know some will be so excited that they'll desire to join the CLFCR team by supporting prayerfully and financially. We know that some will even be called to serve with us in Costa Rica. But whatever happens with the contacts God has given us, we pray He will be glorified in everything we say.
Thank you Father for this trip. Thank you for the many people you've allowed us to share with. I pray for the lost family we have - those that are searching for the answers, for that something to fill that whole in their heart that only you can fill. I am thankful for the time we've had with family, however short it may feel. I pray Father in this moment for the churches of Tejarcillos and Los Guido, for pastor Marvin and pastor Rogelio. Thank you for your Son Jesus and may he be glorified in our lives.
Friday, May 2, 2008
"It's a long way to Costa Rica!"
Just had to post about something my niece said today. It was too cute!
Today was the first time we were able to see her. She has had a real hard time understanding why she hasn't been able to come and see us, why she can't go to our house...that kind of thing. She'll ask my mom often to go see Aunt Brooke.
So, today when my mom picked her up and said they were going to go see Uncle Mac and Aunt Brooke Samanthat said, "Ging-ging, you can't drive to Costa Rica!" (My mom had already explained this once to her.) So, my mom tried to explain that we were staying with friends in Frankfort and they were going to come and visit with us.
Anyway, on their way out Samantha said, "Wow! It is a long way to Closta Rica!" (her pronunciation was C-l-o-s-t-a R-i-c-a). It didn't fit in her mind that they were still in Frankfort. She just thought they were travelling to Costa Rica!
So when she saw us she ran up and gave us huge hugs (I had to FIGHT to hold the tears back it was soooooo good to hug her!) And then she said, "we didn't know where you're house was in Costa Rica, Aunt Brooke!"
I said, "Sweetie, we are in Frankfort. This isn't my house. It is our friends house."
She said, "I live in Frankfort!" And then she just burst into giggles and thought it all was so funny! And then ran over and began playing with the kids again!
It is hard for adults to think about and process sometimes, but even harder for a 4 year old to process the changes in life. She is so sweet and it was great to hear her laugh and love on her tonight!
Today was the first time we were able to see her. She has had a real hard time understanding why she hasn't been able to come and see us, why she can't go to our house...that kind of thing. She'll ask my mom often to go see Aunt Brooke.
So, today when my mom picked her up and said they were going to go see Uncle Mac and Aunt Brooke Samanthat said, "Ging-ging, you can't drive to Costa Rica!" (My mom had already explained this once to her.) So, my mom tried to explain that we were staying with friends in Frankfort and they were going to come and visit with us.
Anyway, on their way out Samantha said, "Wow! It is a long way to Closta Rica!" (her pronunciation was C-l-o-s-t-a R-i-c-a). It didn't fit in her mind that they were still in Frankfort. She just thought they were travelling to Costa Rica!
So when she saw us she ran up and gave us huge hugs (I had to FIGHT to hold the tears back it was soooooo good to hug her!) And then she said, "we didn't know where you're house was in Costa Rica, Aunt Brooke!"
I said, "Sweetie, we are in Frankfort. This isn't my house. It is our friends house."
She said, "I live in Frankfort!" And then she just burst into giggles and thought it all was so funny! And then ran over and began playing with the kids again!
It is hard for adults to think about and process sometimes, but even harder for a 4 year old to process the changes in life. She is so sweet and it was great to hear her laugh and love on her tonight!
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Second report from the states
Hi all! I have only a few minutes, but this is the first time I've gotten on the computer since last Thursday...so I thought I'd update quickly.
We spent the weekend in IN- it was great seeing family and our friends from First Presbyterian in Frankfort. Sunday afternoon Matt, Ethan and I headed off for Tennessee. The girls were not feeling well enough to make the trip, so they stayed with my mom (Ging-ging). We had a wonderful visit with our friends Jim and Jeanne in TN and also were able to share meals with our friends Marvin and Teresa and also Katie D. before heading back to IN yesterday.
Tonight we'll be back at FPC for their family night and then we'll have a few days of rest.
This Sunday 5/4, we'll be at Rossville Brethern Church and Rossville Presbyterian Church in the morning as well as Hickory Grove Church in Delphi for a meal in the evening.
Don't know when I'll update again...but just wanted to let you know we are doing well and enjoying our time together with friends and family.
We spent the weekend in IN- it was great seeing family and our friends from First Presbyterian in Frankfort. Sunday afternoon Matt, Ethan and I headed off for Tennessee. The girls were not feeling well enough to make the trip, so they stayed with my mom (Ging-ging). We had a wonderful visit with our friends Jim and Jeanne in TN and also were able to share meals with our friends Marvin and Teresa and also Katie D. before heading back to IN yesterday.
Tonight we'll be back at FPC for their family night and then we'll have a few days of rest.
This Sunday 5/4, we'll be at Rossville Brethern Church and Rossville Presbyterian Church in the morning as well as Hickory Grove Church in Delphi for a meal in the evening.
Don't know when I'll update again...but just wanted to let you know we are doing well and enjoying our time together with friends and family.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
First report from Indiana
Buenas Dias! Como estas?
We are doing well! I have wanted to post something for a few days, but have not been able to until this morning...sorry about that!
We've made it to Indiana and our enjoying time with our family.
We left San Jose around 3 PM Tuesday after a delayed flight and then a complete schedule change. We arrived in Chicago about 11:30 PM. got our bags and met Cheri Fine outside the airport! She was so welcoming and it was great to have such a smiling, friendly face waiting to greet us- especially considering it was midnight!
We got to bed about 2 AM and we all slept hard! The kids were fantastic the whole day. We waited about 2 1/2 hours in the line to check-in at the airport alone, not to mention the fun of the rest of the day, and they hardly complained. They kept themselves busy and it was actually a really great day of just being together!
We left for Michigan about 10 am Wednesday morning and got there with about an hour to spare before we spoke at Hiawatha Bible Church. We were warmly welcomed and had a great time meeting the church family of our friends, Doug and Karen. We spent a great evening with them afterwards at a nearby hotel. They were having water problems, so we all stayed at a hotel with adjoining rooms. It was actually really great for the kids because there was a pool and the kids LOVED that!
We left after lunch Thursday for Indiana and arrived about 6:45 PM. We've been at Roger and Sue's since and just been enjoying them and being at the original "La Finca" or the Farm, here in Indiana. (We've always called their home the Farm, so it has been fun switching it to La Finca Indiana!)
Matt and Roger went mushroom hunting yesterday and came back with a few. We've had visits from my mom and Uncle Wilbur and my cousin Andrew came from ISU to spend last night and today with us. Mark and Angyl cam out last night as well. Last night I actually met up with two of my best friends (girls from my accountability group) for a girls night, which was fantastic! I also got to catch up with a few of my "girls." (Former youth group girls- it was so great getting to talk with them).
So, today we are hanging out again - RELAXING! I had almost forgotten what this was like! It has been great and the kids are enjoying this so much!
Please pray for our health, though. The girls were sick before we left with colds and those seem to have passed, but it seems they have something else now. Both started vomiting last night and Audrey has not kicked the original cough quite yet. Now Matt, Ethan and I are all getting coughs. So please pray we can fight it all off.
Tomorrow we are excited to visit First Presbyterian Church here in Frankfort and see some good friends there. Later in the afternoon, we'll be heading off to Tennessee until Wednesday.
I don't know how often I'll be able to post, but I'll try as often as I can!
Love to all!
We are doing well! I have wanted to post something for a few days, but have not been able to until this morning...sorry about that!
We've made it to Indiana and our enjoying time with our family.
We left San Jose around 3 PM Tuesday after a delayed flight and then a complete schedule change. We arrived in Chicago about 11:30 PM. got our bags and met Cheri Fine outside the airport! She was so welcoming and it was great to have such a smiling, friendly face waiting to greet us- especially considering it was midnight!
We got to bed about 2 AM and we all slept hard! The kids were fantastic the whole day. We waited about 2 1/2 hours in the line to check-in at the airport alone, not to mention the fun of the rest of the day, and they hardly complained. They kept themselves busy and it was actually a really great day of just being together!
We left for Michigan about 10 am Wednesday morning and got there with about an hour to spare before we spoke at Hiawatha Bible Church. We were warmly welcomed and had a great time meeting the church family of our friends, Doug and Karen. We spent a great evening with them afterwards at a nearby hotel. They were having water problems, so we all stayed at a hotel with adjoining rooms. It was actually really great for the kids because there was a pool and the kids LOVED that!
We left after lunch Thursday for Indiana and arrived about 6:45 PM. We've been at Roger and Sue's since and just been enjoying them and being at the original "La Finca" or the Farm, here in Indiana. (We've always called their home the Farm, so it has been fun switching it to La Finca Indiana!)
Matt and Roger went mushroom hunting yesterday and came back with a few. We've had visits from my mom and Uncle Wilbur and my cousin Andrew came from ISU to spend last night and today with us. Mark and Angyl cam out last night as well. Last night I actually met up with two of my best friends (girls from my accountability group) for a girls night, which was fantastic! I also got to catch up with a few of my "girls." (Former youth group girls- it was so great getting to talk with them).
So, today we are hanging out again - RELAXING! I had almost forgotten what this was like! It has been great and the kids are enjoying this so much!
Please pray for our health, though. The girls were sick before we left with colds and those seem to have passed, but it seems they have something else now. Both started vomiting last night and Audrey has not kicked the original cough quite yet. Now Matt, Ethan and I are all getting coughs. So please pray we can fight it all off.
Tomorrow we are excited to visit First Presbyterian Church here in Frankfort and see some good friends there. Later in the afternoon, we'll be heading off to Tennessee until Wednesday.
I don't know how often I'll be able to post, but I'll try as often as I can!
Love to all!
Monday, April 21, 2008
Vamos a los Estados! (We're going to the states!)
Tomorrow morning we leave for the states for three weeks. We'll arrive in Chicago and from there begin our journey into four surrounding states and then end up back there the last leg of our trip.
We thank the Lord for the many opportunities he has provided to share the ministry back there. We are looking forward to seeing many ministry partners and meeting with many new churches and families.
Please be in prayer for this trip, our safety as we travel, and that God would be glorified in all that we say and do.
Please especially pray for the health of Isabelle and Audrey. Audrey has been fighting a cold for about 10 days and I finally got a prescription for her tonight. I thought Isabelle was out of the clear with the cough shes had for about four days, but tonight it has started up again pretty fierce.
We thank the Lord for the many opportunities he has provided to share the ministry back there. We are looking forward to seeing many ministry partners and meeting with many new churches and families.
Please be in prayer for this trip, our safety as we travel, and that God would be glorified in all that we say and do.
Please especially pray for the health of Isabelle and Audrey. Audrey has been fighting a cold for about 10 days and I finally got a prescription for her tonight. I thought Isabelle was out of the clear with the cough shes had for about four days, but tonight it has started up again pretty fierce.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Checked out!
Remember what it's like near the end of the school year, especially your Senior year? There is this unconcious arrival of a series of blank stares this week at school. With only two more days of classes this week, and four next week, most people are what I would call "Checked out!" Especially so for those of us for whom this is our last trimester. Today my class began rule #7 of subjunctive, which I have been really excited to learn, but I have to admit- I am struggling to concentrate! Our family has only three days of classes left, because we leave for the states Tuesday. So, while I will be attending class these last three days, I really am going only to enjoy these last few days with my classmates.
Here is a picture of my class.
Our teacher is Laura and my classmates are Jackie, Ken and John. It has been a great tri with the three of them. We have grown together in our speaking ability as a group, which is a rare thing. We are all right about the same level and Laura has allowed us much freedom in this class. She has been so great about giving us the freedom to openly converse and not been so strict as to keep us moving on the "assigned" subject matter. We've had some really great conversations, some deep, some theological, some not-so-much, some just fun. I'll miss this group, but as John says, not enough to come back for one more tri! :)Heeheehee!
But, to finish the thought about "Senior-itis," you all know what it is like at the end of the school year- you are experiencing it now back in the states. The tiredness, looking forward to the arrival of summer (for us just the rainy season...) but any way- we are nearing the end and it feels like it. Our brains have been taxed out...Last night we were all in bed and ASLEEP by 8:30! That is rare in our house, but it felt so good!
Today, Audrey really didn't want to go to school. So she stayed with me until it was time for me to go and then we both ended up being a little bit late. BUt, that's OK! It was fun walking with her like that- we don't usually get that one-on-one time in the morning and it was good.
Have a great week!
PS: Got my test results back- my written exam was not as good as I had thought, but it was fine considering the comprehensiveness of the test- and good enough to receive the diploma! WOHOO! My oral score was good as well! I am happy that I took both tests. It was a good experience and worth it!
Here is a picture of my class.
Our teacher is Laura and my classmates are Jackie, Ken and John. It has been a great tri with the three of them. We have grown together in our speaking ability as a group, which is a rare thing. We are all right about the same level and Laura has allowed us much freedom in this class. She has been so great about giving us the freedom to openly converse and not been so strict as to keep us moving on the "assigned" subject matter. We've had some really great conversations, some deep, some theological, some not-so-much, some just fun. I'll miss this group, but as John says, not enough to come back for one more tri! :)Heeheehee!
But, to finish the thought about "Senior-itis," you all know what it is like at the end of the school year- you are experiencing it now back in the states. The tiredness, looking forward to the arrival of summer (for us just the rainy season...) but any way- we are nearing the end and it feels like it. Our brains have been taxed out...Last night we were all in bed and ASLEEP by 8:30! That is rare in our house, but it felt so good!
Today, Audrey really didn't want to go to school. So she stayed with me until it was time for me to go and then we both ended up being a little bit late. BUt, that's OK! It was fun walking with her like that- we don't usually get that one-on-one time in the morning and it was good.
Have a great week!
PS: Got my test results back- my written exam was not as good as I had thought, but it was fine considering the comprehensiveness of the test- and good enough to receive the diploma! WOHOO! My oral score was good as well! I am happy that I took both tests. It was a good experience and worth it!
Friday, April 11, 2008
Exams and "Life"
Just an update to say I did indeed survive my exams this week! Praise the Lord!
Wednesday was the oral exam and it was actually quite fun. Students have a teacher whom they've never had as a teacher for class, preferably one they do not know as well. This makes it easier for them to better asses the students speaking ability- because they are most likely not used to hearing them speak every day. I had a teacher named Saundra who Matt had last tri and she was really sweet. I'll know my level by Tuesday :)It was an easy going conversation and you all know I love to talk!!
Thursday was the written exam and it was tough. I was there for just short of three hours and it was probably the most thorough exam I have ever taken, short of the SAT's. It was a great exam though in that it really did cover everything we've learned and I am anxious to see how I did. :)
Thank you all for praying!
One other thing: Last Friday, the kids school held a talent show- with auditions before hand and everything! Ethan told us he wanted to do something for it right away. (This was a real shock since you all know how shy he is ;) )
So, he decided he wanted to write a story and draw pictures to go along with the story. At this same time, we had a church we will be visiting ask us if any of our kids would be willing to share in a children's Sunday School class about his life in Costa Rica. Ethan said he thought he could do that. So, the decision was made by Ethan to use this opportunity of the talent show as practice for the presentation for the church. So,
I just have to say, he did so fantastic! It is super cute the way he wrote it and the pictures are great- he is really a budding artist. When we go to a park to play he wants to take a notebook and pencil in case he sees something he wants to draw!!So, he got up on that stage last week, a little nervous, but hamming it up from the minute he walked to the mic. I was so proud of him and sitting there in awe of the way God can shape such a little person's heart for Him.
Here is his story: (I've spelled it the way he did as well, for effect :) )
"God wants us to be here to tell about Jesus. Life is hard in Costa Rica because homework and sisters and school and Spanish. But being here is fun because there are things in Costa Rica that I have never seen in my life.
Life is difrent becaus I have never spoke Spanish in my life. My MoM and DaD have a new job. They tell others about Jesus. We also teach them how to live like him. Life is cool in Costa Rica."
By the way, he got a third place in his age group and was the only first grader to participate!!! :)
Wednesday was the oral exam and it was actually quite fun. Students have a teacher whom they've never had as a teacher for class, preferably one they do not know as well. This makes it easier for them to better asses the students speaking ability- because they are most likely not used to hearing them speak every day. I had a teacher named Saundra who Matt had last tri and she was really sweet. I'll know my level by Tuesday :)It was an easy going conversation and you all know I love to talk!!
Thursday was the written exam and it was tough. I was there for just short of three hours and it was probably the most thorough exam I have ever taken, short of the SAT's. It was a great exam though in that it really did cover everything we've learned and I am anxious to see how I did. :)
Thank you all for praying!
One other thing: Last Friday, the kids school held a talent show- with auditions before hand and everything! Ethan told us he wanted to do something for it right away. (This was a real shock since you all know how shy he is ;) )
So, he decided he wanted to write a story and draw pictures to go along with the story. At this same time, we had a church we will be visiting ask us if any of our kids would be willing to share in a children's Sunday School class about his life in Costa Rica. Ethan said he thought he could do that. So, the decision was made by Ethan to use this opportunity of the talent show as practice for the presentation for the church. So,
I just have to say, he did so fantastic! It is super cute the way he wrote it and the pictures are great- he is really a budding artist. When we go to a park to play he wants to take a notebook and pencil in case he sees something he wants to draw!!So, he got up on that stage last week, a little nervous, but hamming it up from the minute he walked to the mic. I was so proud of him and sitting there in awe of the way God can shape such a little person's heart for Him.
Here is his story: (I've spelled it the way he did as well, for effect :) )
"God wants us to be here to tell about Jesus. Life is hard in Costa Rica because homework and sisters and school and Spanish. But being here is fun because there are things in Costa Rica that I have never seen in my life.
Life is difrent becaus I have never spoke Spanish in my life. My MoM and DaD have a new job. They tell others about Jesus. We also teach them how to live like him. Life is cool in Costa Rica."
By the way, he got a third place in his age group and was the only first grader to participate!!! :)
Monday, April 7, 2008
Some things to pray for this week...
Just some things to pray for this week:
Please pray for the new Monday afternoon discipleship group in The Pines in Tejarcillos. Last week there were over 50 new kids in attendance.
Please pray for the new Tuesday discipleship group in Pastor Rogelio's house. There were 12 new children in this group.
Both of these groups are fruit from the Sharon Baptist mission team that was here a couple of weeks ago. We praise the Lord for this new fruit and ask him to preserve it and these young ones would be fruit that lasts.
Please pray for Brooke this week. She will be taking the two major exams offered at the Institute to determine both the speaking level as well as the grammatical level students are at when they leave the school.
The first test is Wednesday and it is an oral evaluation of a students speaking level. There is literally nothing I can do to study for this, just gotta go in an answer the questions with confidence and clarity. Please pray it will be a "good Spanish day" for me. :)
The second test is Thursday and it is the written exam. The allotted time is 3 hours!!! Can you say SAT's??? Pretty much it will cover anything and everything I have learned in the last 8 months! No stress there...but I actually am looking forward to an honest assessment of where I am at and then to be able to look forward to what I need to work on with my tutor once we are back home from the states. But, if you could pray that I can pull from all the info I've learned to effectively answer the questions- I'd greatly appreciate it.
Other prayer requests are simply surrounding getting ready for our visit back to the states. We have much to do and only two weeks left to prepare. We've had no Vonage phone so we've been sending and receiving an overload of emails lately- I've spent about two and half hours going through mine tonight. I had over 40 when I started and I'm down to 26 now I think...WHEW!!!
Please also pray for Pastor Rogelio and his family and their ministry to Tejarcillos. We spent a wonderful afternoon with them today. Our families mesh so well together and what a blessing from the Lord that is.
You can pray for the added kinks rainy season brings to our lives. We have officially entered into rainy season- about a month early! So, the days of rain from early afternoon until evening- sometimes longer have started and we were not exactly ready for that...Ethan gave us a cheerful serenade of "Let it rain" this afternoon as a storm flew through Tejarcillos while we were at Rogelio's house...what a ham that kid is!
Thanks for praying!
Please pray for the new Monday afternoon discipleship group in The Pines in Tejarcillos. Last week there were over 50 new kids in attendance.
Please pray for the new Tuesday discipleship group in Pastor Rogelio's house. There were 12 new children in this group.
Both of these groups are fruit from the Sharon Baptist mission team that was here a couple of weeks ago. We praise the Lord for this new fruit and ask him to preserve it and these young ones would be fruit that lasts.
Please pray for Brooke this week. She will be taking the two major exams offered at the Institute to determine both the speaking level as well as the grammatical level students are at when they leave the school.
The first test is Wednesday and it is an oral evaluation of a students speaking level. There is literally nothing I can do to study for this, just gotta go in an answer the questions with confidence and clarity. Please pray it will be a "good Spanish day" for me. :)
The second test is Thursday and it is the written exam. The allotted time is 3 hours!!! Can you say SAT's??? Pretty much it will cover anything and everything I have learned in the last 8 months! No stress there...but I actually am looking forward to an honest assessment of where I am at and then to be able to look forward to what I need to work on with my tutor once we are back home from the states. But, if you could pray that I can pull from all the info I've learned to effectively answer the questions- I'd greatly appreciate it.
Other prayer requests are simply surrounding getting ready for our visit back to the states. We have much to do and only two weeks left to prepare. We've had no Vonage phone so we've been sending and receiving an overload of emails lately- I've spent about two and half hours going through mine tonight. I had over 40 when I started and I'm down to 26 now I think...WHEW!!!
Please also pray for Pastor Rogelio and his family and their ministry to Tejarcillos. We spent a wonderful afternoon with them today. Our families mesh so well together and what a blessing from the Lord that is.
You can pray for the added kinks rainy season brings to our lives. We have officially entered into rainy season- about a month early! So, the days of rain from early afternoon until evening- sometimes longer have started and we were not exactly ready for that...Ethan gave us a cheerful serenade of "Let it rain" this afternoon as a storm flew through Tejarcillos while we were at Rogelio's house...what a ham that kid is!
Thanks for praying!
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
¡Feliz Cumpleaños, Alejandro!
Today was Alex'a birthday! We all celebrated Sunday with dinner and eggs, of course. But remember him in prayer today, if you would. In a very short time, he has become a part of our family- and will be forever. He is like an uncle to the kids and we all love him very much!
"Can I have some more macaroni, please?"
Two funny moments from yesterday:
Audrey has a stuffy nose for about a week or so. I have often asked her "Is your nose stuffy today?"
Sometime yesterday afternoon Audrey looked at me and said
"Mommy, my nose is all 'fluffy'!"
I couldn't stifle the laugh as I said "Do you mean 'stuffy'?"
And she gave this signature laugh she has and said "Oh yeah, 'tuffy!"
Then last night at supper, we all the fixings for tacos and I had made a small batch of guacomole. As Isabelle was fixing her third taco, she said,
"Mom, pass me the macaroni, please!"
The best part was she didn't even realize what she had said...
I said, "Do you mean 'guacomole'?"
To which she answered, "Oh macaroni...guacomole...yeah that!"
The mouths of babes!
The girls and their cat, Cereal
Here are a few other pictures I thought were worth sharing from our trip to Parque Diversiones last month:
Audrey with her big brother on her first roller coaster ever!
Audrey and Mommy on the roller coaster!
Isabelle and her friend Megan loving the ride :)
Audrey has a stuffy nose for about a week or so. I have often asked her "Is your nose stuffy today?"
Sometime yesterday afternoon Audrey looked at me and said
"Mommy, my nose is all 'fluffy'!"
I couldn't stifle the laugh as I said "Do you mean 'stuffy'?"
And she gave this signature laugh she has and said "Oh yeah, 'tuffy!"
Then last night at supper, we all the fixings for tacos and I had made a small batch of guacomole. As Isabelle was fixing her third taco, she said,
"Mom, pass me the macaroni, please!"
The best part was she didn't even realize what she had said...
I said, "Do you mean 'guacomole'?"
To which she answered, "Oh macaroni...guacomole...yeah that!"
The mouths of babes!
The girls and their cat, Cereal
Here are a few other pictures I thought were worth sharing from our trip to Parque Diversiones last month:
Audrey with her big brother on her first roller coaster ever!
Audrey and Mommy on the roller coaster!
Isabelle and her friend Megan loving the ride :)
Saturday, March 29, 2008
El Subjuntivo (Subjunctive)
This is proof of how greatly unfair and unequal the difference is between the learning ability of children and adults when it comes to a foreign language.
Matt and I have been in school 7 months now and we have just recently moved into the subject of Subjunctive (el subjuntivo). It is an awesome asset to the Spanish language and much needed- no matter what anyone else tries to tell you. However, it is very difficult to learn, as well.
Today, Ethan was sitting on the couch kinda mumbling something under his breath and he looks at us and I here him say to himself that he had just said a complete sentence in Spanish. I am thinking no big deal because I have heard him say plenty of sentences before. But then I hear the sentence!
"Yo le pregunte a mi maestra que venga a mi casa a las seis de la noche el lunes."
For those of you who have no idea about Spanish- this is a grammatically CORRECT!!!!!
complete sentence using subjunctive that also includes the correct pronouns and indirect object, which is another very difficult thing to master in Spanish!!!
Matt and I stopped in ourtracks when we heard him say this! Matt asked him who taught him how to say that and Ethan said he just said it- no one taught him! He did NOT have to memorize it for school- he just said it!!!
Have I mentioned before that our son is a genius?
Thanks to all that were praying for the Sharon Baptist team from TN. We had a great week and Matt and I and the kids have great new friends! The team served the Lord in mighty and selfless ways all week and not only were a huge encouragement to the people and the ministry in Tejarcillos, but also to our team and specifically our family.
Thank you Father for Sharon Baptist Church and their willingness to serve you sacrificially and for their desire to love you, serve you, and bear long-lasting fruit for you!
Matt and I have been in school 7 months now and we have just recently moved into the subject of Subjunctive (el subjuntivo). It is an awesome asset to the Spanish language and much needed- no matter what anyone else tries to tell you. However, it is very difficult to learn, as well.
Today, Ethan was sitting on the couch kinda mumbling something under his breath and he looks at us and I here him say to himself that he had just said a complete sentence in Spanish. I am thinking no big deal because I have heard him say plenty of sentences before. But then I hear the sentence!
"Yo le pregunte a mi maestra que venga a mi casa a las seis de la noche el lunes."
For those of you who have no idea about Spanish- this is a grammatically CORRECT!!!!!
complete sentence using subjunctive that also includes the correct pronouns and indirect object, which is another very difficult thing to master in Spanish!!!
Matt and I stopped in ourtracks when we heard him say this! Matt asked him who taught him how to say that and Ethan said he just said it- no one taught him! He did NOT have to memorize it for school- he just said it!!!
Have I mentioned before that our son is a genius?
Thanks to all that were praying for the Sharon Baptist team from TN. We had a great week and Matt and I and the kids have great new friends! The team served the Lord in mighty and selfless ways all week and not only were a huge encouragement to the people and the ministry in Tejarcillos, but also to our team and specifically our family.
Thank you Father for Sharon Baptist Church and their willingness to serve you sacrificially and for their desire to love you, serve you, and bear long-lasting fruit for you!
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
La Cancha Tejarcillos
Today we held the second outreach planned by the Sharon Baptist mission team. It was held in La Cancha Tejarcillos, which is a large field used by the local gang as a soccer field and used by others as a field for playing in. The field is directly across from Pastor Rogelio's house- so it is a perfect location for an outreach.
It was a great day and a little more organized than yesterday, at least I felt. The kids were more controlled and the outreach ended by a dance-off of sorts with four teams: Las Águilas, Los Búfalos, Los Pequinitos (the little ones) and Los Gringos. There are many songs the kids of the churches love to sing and have made up dances to. They all had a blast dancing around and having fun!
It is very dusty this time of year, as it is still dry season. Everyone was covered in dirt and dust by the end of the day, but a good time was had by all. I don't know the exact number but there were close to one hundred again today. Several moms as well. Pastor Rogelio shared The Bridge again and once again, many crossed over from eternal death to eternal Life as they made the decision to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Many again indicated that they would like to be in a discipleship group where they can learn more about the decision they just made and what their new life in Christ is all about.
The kids and I left school early today and we went up for lunch and then the outreach. It was one of the most fun days we've had together. They ran around and played together and with other kids and with Mariana and Valeria. They have made fast friends with many on this team and it is always such a blessing to me personally as their mom to watch them bond and share themselves with someone new.
I must say, I am tired. But as I was discussing with a friend this morning, this is the kind of tired I would never dream of complaining about. This is the tired that makes me wake up the next morning thinking "Do I get to do that again today?" despite what my aching body says...
So, all of that to say this...my heart is aching to be able to do what we've been doing the past four days ALL the time! What I mean by that is to be able to be serving in the ministry full-time is the desire of my heart right now. Learning the language is so very valuable and importnat- but man!- it takes a long time!! I am eagerly looking forward to May- we have teams booked solid from now until August- when the kids and I are out of school and our schedule is more relaxed. Even though Matt will still be in school, we will have so much less stress than with all 5 of us being in school...I am still very eager to continue my language learning with a tutor, but it will be nice to have a simpler pace to life again...well sort of?!?!?!
Please pray for the fruit from today's outreach. Please pray that it is long-lasting. Please pray for all those teachers who lead the different groups of children and for their hearts as they begin a new discipleship group next week with these same kids. And pray that the fruit from these two days will bring the light of Jesus Christ into the dark area of Tejarcillos.
It was a great day and a little more organized than yesterday, at least I felt. The kids were more controlled and the outreach ended by a dance-off of sorts with four teams: Las Águilas, Los Búfalos, Los Pequinitos (the little ones) and Los Gringos. There are many songs the kids of the churches love to sing and have made up dances to. They all had a blast dancing around and having fun!
It is very dusty this time of year, as it is still dry season. Everyone was covered in dirt and dust by the end of the day, but a good time was had by all. I don't know the exact number but there were close to one hundred again today. Several moms as well. Pastor Rogelio shared The Bridge again and once again, many crossed over from eternal death to eternal Life as they made the decision to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Many again indicated that they would like to be in a discipleship group where they can learn more about the decision they just made and what their new life in Christ is all about.
The kids and I left school early today and we went up for lunch and then the outreach. It was one of the most fun days we've had together. They ran around and played together and with other kids and with Mariana and Valeria. They have made fast friends with many on this team and it is always such a blessing to me personally as their mom to watch them bond and share themselves with someone new.
I must say, I am tired. But as I was discussing with a friend this morning, this is the kind of tired I would never dream of complaining about. This is the tired that makes me wake up the next morning thinking "Do I get to do that again today?" despite what my aching body says...
So, all of that to say this...my heart is aching to be able to do what we've been doing the past four days ALL the time! What I mean by that is to be able to be serving in the ministry full-time is the desire of my heart right now. Learning the language is so very valuable and importnat- but man!- it takes a long time!! I am eagerly looking forward to May- we have teams booked solid from now until August- when the kids and I are out of school and our schedule is more relaxed. Even though Matt will still be in school, we will have so much less stress than with all 5 of us being in school...I am still very eager to continue my language learning with a tutor, but it will be nice to have a simpler pace to life again...well sort of?!?!?!
Please pray for the fruit from today's outreach. Please pray that it is long-lasting. Please pray for all those teachers who lead the different groups of children and for their hearts as they begin a new discipleship group next week with these same kids. And pray that the fruit from these two days will bring the light of Jesus Christ into the dark area of Tejarcillos.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Los Pinos (The Pines)
Today we were in a rough area of Tejarcillos- possibly the roughest area. The Sharon Baptist team organized a VBS outreach and our prayer was to see much fruit.
The morning was spent walking the entire area handing out invitations to the outreach as well as to the special movie, The Jesus film for Kids, that the team is showing at the prayer service.
Then, after lunch we held the outreach. Over 100 new kids came- it was great to see all these new faces! Many accepted the Lord for the first time and many of those desire to be in a discipleship group, which Pastor Rogelio plans to start next Monday in the same spot that we held the outreach today!
The second part of our prayer this morning was that the much fruit that today would yield would be fruit that lasts. Tejarcillos is a tough area because of the gang presence, but mainly because of the darkness that surrounds it. But today, for about 2 hours, the power of Jesus Christ broke through that darkness and many crossed the Bridge from darkness and eternal condemnation and walked into the arms of their Savior Jesus Christ! What an amazing scene to watch. The Lord blessed me to be able to help one of the young women I've been praying for for quite some time, Fannie. She took charge of one of the groups that had many young kids in it that could barely read or write. Some older ones also joined the group- they could not read or write either. So I sat down to help her and the two of us helped about 10 little kids fill out the Bridge illustration. It was very awesome to see her explaining what was going on and even more so when she said to me that she would like to disciple them! All the kids were so intent and there were about four boys and one little girl that really seemed sincere about wanting to be discipled!
Our group was not the only group like this. There were about 6 or so more groups and many who desired to learn more about the decision they had just made by being discipled.
Please pray that these precious new believers- these young children - will become the the much fruit that lasts that Jesus desires us to bear.
Please pray for tomorrow afternoon when we will hold the same outreach in a different area.
Matt and I learned alot from today about what it takes to control a situation like this, about thinking through things - and exactly what things are important to think through ahead of time. It was a good day and we are so thankful to be able to be here serving the Lord!
I'll post pictures soon!
The morning was spent walking the entire area handing out invitations to the outreach as well as to the special movie, The Jesus film for Kids, that the team is showing at the prayer service.
Then, after lunch we held the outreach. Over 100 new kids came- it was great to see all these new faces! Many accepted the Lord for the first time and many of those desire to be in a discipleship group, which Pastor Rogelio plans to start next Monday in the same spot that we held the outreach today!
The second part of our prayer this morning was that the much fruit that today would yield would be fruit that lasts. Tejarcillos is a tough area because of the gang presence, but mainly because of the darkness that surrounds it. But today, for about 2 hours, the power of Jesus Christ broke through that darkness and many crossed the Bridge from darkness and eternal condemnation and walked into the arms of their Savior Jesus Christ! What an amazing scene to watch. The Lord blessed me to be able to help one of the young women I've been praying for for quite some time, Fannie. She took charge of one of the groups that had many young kids in it that could barely read or write. Some older ones also joined the group- they could not read or write either. So I sat down to help her and the two of us helped about 10 little kids fill out the Bridge illustration. It was very awesome to see her explaining what was going on and even more so when she said to me that she would like to disciple them! All the kids were so intent and there were about four boys and one little girl that really seemed sincere about wanting to be discipled!
Our group was not the only group like this. There were about 6 or so more groups and many who desired to learn more about the decision they had just made by being discipled.
Please pray that these precious new believers- these young children - will become the the much fruit that lasts that Jesus desires us to bear.
Please pray for tomorrow afternoon when we will hold the same outreach in a different area.
Matt and I learned alot from today about what it takes to control a situation like this, about thinking through things - and exactly what things are important to think through ahead of time. It was a good day and we are so thankful to be able to be here serving the Lord!
I'll post pictures soon!
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Sharon Baptist Mission team
The Sharon Baptist Mission team arrived yesterday and are geared up for a great week of service in Tejarcillos. Last night we enjoyed a meal and fellowship in Pastor Rogelio and Neris's house. Today we had a special Easter service and the team provided lunch afterwards for the entire church! It was a real blessing to the people of Tejarcillos.
Please pray for Pastor Will and the entire team from Tennesse. There are many youth on this team. Please pray for them to be witnesses of God's glory to the youth of Tejarcillos. Please pray especially for two special outreaches planned for Monday and Tuesday afternoons. Pray for their to be much fruit and that this fruit would last.
Check www.clfcostarica.com for daily updates from the team as well as pictures!
Please pray for Pastor Will and the entire team from Tennesse. There are many youth on this team. Please pray for them to be witnesses of God's glory to the youth of Tejarcillos. Please pray especially for two special outreaches planned for Monday and Tuesday afternoons. Pray for their to be much fruit and that this fruit would last.
Check www.clfcostarica.com for daily updates from the team as well as pictures!
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Singing Mariachi's
As I mentioned in an earlier post, I was serendaed by singing mariachi's on the night of my birthday!
One of the many traditions Costa Rican's have surrounding birthday's is to have singing mariachi's for one's birthday. Usually, they are arranged to awake the birthday person from their sleep somewhere in the wee hours of the morning. Thankfully, my husband was kind enough to arrange for them to be at our apartment shortly after dinner Monday night.
We had just finished the fantastic dinner Ale had cooked for us and were haning out. OUr friends Jake and Amy were over also. Then...
I heard someone pull up outside and looked out the window and saw a strange van and wonder who it was, but didn't think anything about it. Then I heard some voices right outside and I looked again and realized it was mariachi's. (We had seen them before for the director of the Insitute's birthday). I was a little embarrassed to go out, but they started singing so out I went!
It was so sweet of Matt to do this and such a great way to get into the culture. They are wonderful instrumentalists and singers. One thing I have realized this birthday is how important certain things are, no matter what culture you are in. We are delighted to be able to learn about the Latin America culture. We have chosen not to participate in all things culturally acceptable, some for obvious reasons and others for personal, but the traditions surrounding birthdays are fun new traditions to add to our lives and fun ways to make memories.
Enjoy the pictures!
First seeing the mariachi's
Ale and Audrey and Brooke and Isabelle enjoying the music
Part of the group
The second part of the group
One more birthday tradition is to have your face pushed in the cake! I have heard of this before but didn't remember it. Not only do you get eggs on your head, but now cake in your face!!! Ale graciously helped me with this tradition!
The mariachi's wanted me in the picture with cake on my face!!!
This has been such a great birthday!
To all who have called I really appreciate your thoughts and prayers. Our Vonage phone is temporarily (I hope it is only temporary!) out of service. I was able to get most of the messages through email- so that was great! But please do not be offended that I have not called back!
Matt has spent many hours trying to work on it, but still no solution. You could lift this in prayer if you think about it. It is particularly discouraging right now as we are trying to connect with many different people in the states about our upcoming visit and we have no phone to return calls with or make the needed ones. Please pray for patience on our part. We really understand the luxury a stateside phone is and we know God is big enough to allow the details to fall into place even without a phone, but it does get frustrating when you cannot find a solution to a problem.
One of the many traditions Costa Rican's have surrounding birthday's is to have singing mariachi's for one's birthday. Usually, they are arranged to awake the birthday person from their sleep somewhere in the wee hours of the morning. Thankfully, my husband was kind enough to arrange for them to be at our apartment shortly after dinner Monday night.
We had just finished the fantastic dinner Ale had cooked for us and were haning out. OUr friends Jake and Amy were over also. Then...
I heard someone pull up outside and looked out the window and saw a strange van and wonder who it was, but didn't think anything about it. Then I heard some voices right outside and I looked again and realized it was mariachi's. (We had seen them before for the director of the Insitute's birthday). I was a little embarrassed to go out, but they started singing so out I went!
It was so sweet of Matt to do this and such a great way to get into the culture. They are wonderful instrumentalists and singers. One thing I have realized this birthday is how important certain things are, no matter what culture you are in. We are delighted to be able to learn about the Latin America culture. We have chosen not to participate in all things culturally acceptable, some for obvious reasons and others for personal, but the traditions surrounding birthdays are fun new traditions to add to our lives and fun ways to make memories.
Enjoy the pictures!
First seeing the mariachi's
Ale and Audrey and Brooke and Isabelle enjoying the music
Part of the group
The second part of the group
One more birthday tradition is to have your face pushed in the cake! I have heard of this before but didn't remember it. Not only do you get eggs on your head, but now cake in your face!!! Ale graciously helped me with this tradition!
The mariachi's wanted me in the picture with cake on my face!!!
This has been such a great birthday!
To all who have called I really appreciate your thoughts and prayers. Our Vonage phone is temporarily (I hope it is only temporary!) out of service. I was able to get most of the messages through email- so that was great! But please do not be offended that I have not called back!
Matt has spent many hours trying to work on it, but still no solution. You could lift this in prayer if you think about it. It is particularly discouraging right now as we are trying to connect with many different people in the states about our upcoming visit and we have no phone to return calls with or make the needed ones. Please pray for patience on our part. We really understand the luxury a stateside phone is and we know God is big enough to allow the details to fall into place even without a phone, but it does get frustrating when you cannot find a solution to a problem.
Parque Diversiones
Monday we took off to a local amusement park for a fmaily day with a couple other families from the school. This was Isabelle's birthday present. She shares her birthday with one of her best friends at school named Ally. So, they wanted to celebrate together and this was how we decided to do that!
You may be wondering what an amusement prak in a third world country looks like? And why in the world would we want to take our kids there? Well, surprisingly, it was extremely clean and well kept and well staffed. The rides were great and safe and we all had a fantastice time. It is really great because, of course there are many food courts to choose from, but you can take in your own lunch, too! And you can just walk in if you do not want to ride rides. If you choose to ride- you purchase a wrist band and that is your admittance to the rides. But the wristband only costs $10 a person for all day admission and unlimited rides! What a deal! We had some money that we had been given as a Christmas gift that was to be used for something fun(THANK YOU KATHI and DUANE!!!) and we decided this would be fun for al of us! There was a great section for the kids and we spent most of the day in there. But because we went with other families, even Matt and I were able to ride some together so that was fun!
Here are a few pictures of our day!
Megan, Isabelle and Ally- best friends!
Isabelle and the big blue cat!
Ethan's favorite ride- The Coca-Cola! Between the three families there were 11 kids- and eight of them were able to ride this ride together! What a great picture!
Ethan and Audrey with the lion
Our family
It was a day I hope the kids remember for a long time filled with fun memories with their friends from school. Each one of them had friends there. Ethan and Parker have been friends since the first day of school. Isabelle and Ally (the birthday girls) have also been friends since the first day. I remember how scared Isabelle was to go to school and Ally was the first little girl to talk with Isabelle and offer her the seat next to her. Audrey's friend Andrew was there, too and Isabelle and his sister Megan (from the first picture) are friends and Allison and Ethan, too. We ran into another family after being there a little while and their daughter Gabriela and Audrey are great friends, too.
Brooke, Audrey, Lisa and Andrew and Caleb on the trucks
Baby bumper cars...
Isabelle, Ethan and Audrey on the Coca-Cola
Megan, Isabelle, Avery and Jessica- I just love this picture!
This is little Jackson- isn't this a sweet picture?!
You may be wondering what an amusement prak in a third world country looks like? And why in the world would we want to take our kids there? Well, surprisingly, it was extremely clean and well kept and well staffed. The rides were great and safe and we all had a fantastice time. It is really great because, of course there are many food courts to choose from, but you can take in your own lunch, too! And you can just walk in if you do not want to ride rides. If you choose to ride- you purchase a wrist band and that is your admittance to the rides. But the wristband only costs $10 a person for all day admission and unlimited rides! What a deal! We had some money that we had been given as a Christmas gift that was to be used for something fun(THANK YOU KATHI and DUANE!!!) and we decided this would be fun for al of us! There was a great section for the kids and we spent most of the day in there. But because we went with other families, even Matt and I were able to ride some together so that was fun!
Here are a few pictures of our day!
Megan, Isabelle and Ally- best friends!
Isabelle and the big blue cat!
Ethan's favorite ride- The Coca-Cola! Between the three families there were 11 kids- and eight of them were able to ride this ride together! What a great picture!
Ethan and Audrey with the lion
Our family
It was a day I hope the kids remember for a long time filled with fun memories with their friends from school. Each one of them had friends there. Ethan and Parker have been friends since the first day of school. Isabelle and Ally (the birthday girls) have also been friends since the first day. I remember how scared Isabelle was to go to school and Ally was the first little girl to talk with Isabelle and offer her the seat next to her. Audrey's friend Andrew was there, too and Isabelle and his sister Megan (from the first picture) are friends and Allison and Ethan, too. We ran into another family after being there a little while and their daughter Gabriela and Audrey are great friends, too.
Brooke, Audrey, Lisa and Andrew and Caleb on the trucks
Baby bumper cars...
Isabelle, Ethan and Audrey on the Coca-Cola
Megan, Isabelle, Avery and Jessica- I just love this picture!
This is little Jackson- isn't this a sweet picture?!
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