Mexico Trip - Day 7

The day began very early with a 5:00 wake up. We all gathered together outside and sang “Happy Birthday” in Spanish and English to Katy. It is her 15th birthday, and that is a special birthday for girls in Mexico. Throughout the day, we celebrated her special day, and we all benefited from it. For instance, we took a break in the morning to have a pinata time, we had cake and ice cream at the end of the day. She also received some flowers for her birthday – a beautiful vase of roses.

We began working at our usual time, and accomplished a lot before lunch. Things are looking good, and it seems that by tomorrow evening, we should have many of our projects finished. The work is still very difficult, strength wise, but the kids are doing a great job. I am confident that in just 4 days of work so far, they have done more than had been expected to be done by the end of the week. Today should prove exciting as we see many of the holes closed up, and the plumbing finished. The kids are excited about the possibility of flushing toilet paper – because they haven't been able to because of the septic tank. I still don't think they will be allowed to flush paper, but if it motivates them, let it be, right?

Anyway, after lunch today, we took a little time for relaxing and preparation for the evening outreach. I spent some time playing on the guitar, it was a great time of worship. Then around 3:30, we left for the projects close to the church, to hand out fliers (for our Wednesday Movie Night), to do face painting, balloon animals, and of course, play soccer with the locals. As we got to our destination, Jeff lit up! They had a soccer field inside walls (like a hockey rink) and a turf field, right in the middle of the projects. We began playing, and a crowd gathered. After scoring a goal, the other team had to leave the field. We started rotating in the locals, and soon there was a lot of people watching and waiting to play. We were handing out water, watermelon, wordless book bracelets, coins with John 3:16 on it, tracts, invitations, and popsicles. People were coming from all over the area to get the free stuff, get their faces painted, receive balloon animals, and to watch soccer. It was very successful. We are talking about doing it again tonight.

The neat thing for me was that the tracts we were handing out clearly present the gospel, and I watched many people reading the booklets while waiting and watching the soccer games. I watched one man showing it to the woman he was with. Only eternity will tell the outcome of today's events.

As the evening closed, we had pizza for dinner, followed by cake and ice cream. Then we played some cards – a game called “kemps”, and then we headed off for bed. Keli came to our room and asked for the “pump boy” - which of course is me. You see, the city trucks water to the cistern under the facility, then they pump the water to large basins on top of the building. When the basins empty, we have to pump the water to them. Anyway, I thought Keli was being silly, since everyone was supposed to be in bed, so when 20 minutes or so later someone else told us that Winnie was still in the shower waiting for the water, I felt bad.

After turning the pump on, and then off, the guys started asking some very personal questions regarding dating, sex, relationships, etc. I think they were surprised that I answered frankly and honestly. This seemed to be God's way of saying, it is time to share your testimony, so for the next 30+ minutes, I shared with them the story of God's grace in my life. Needless to say, as always it was very difficult, but very freeing. I am still amazed at the grace of our God. His forgiveness and mercy overwhelm me when I think about what He gave to bring me into His family. I pray that God used the things I shared with the guys to help them walk well with God.

Mexico Trip - Day 6

Today began a little earlier, as it was Sunday. We needed to get all of our things cleaned up and put into the office and classroom by 8 in the morning. Amazingly enough, we were done with everything – including breakfast by 8 am. Then it was time to get the church ready for service. We mopped the floor, cleaned restrooms, set up chairs, wiped down everything. It was a busy morning. But by 10:00 everything was ready for the people to arrive.

Today is the Mexico vs Argentina World Cup game, so we were sure that there would be less people at the service. In all, there were about a hundred. The service began in Spanish with singing, announcements, and testimony, and then our group had the chance to give testimonies, lead in singing, and then do a skit. They did an excellent job. During the service, they took a “15 minute break” that took about 30 minutes. They had drinks and cake. We all talked together as best as we could. It was interesting. Finally we went back into the sanctuary and Pastor Jeff spoke with Mario interpreting. He and Mario were fun to watch. They were very animated, and Jeff really enjoyed getting Mario to make sounds and various expressions to get his message across. He connected with the people by talking about a World Cup game he had been to where Mexico was playing – they were very interested. He then shared with them from John 14. He did a great job, ending his sermon with the illustration of the art collector who auctioned his whole art collection off to the guy who purchased the picture of his son. The point – He who has the Son has everything. After church we had lunch with some of the people, and then got ready for the evening outreach.

At 3:00 we went to another branch of Dios Es Amor church and played soccer with the locals. Then we presented the drama and Abram (the “pastor” of that work) shared from God's Word, right on the street outside the people's homes. We had the privilege of seeing 75+ people listen and hear the gospel, some who the church had been reaching out to, but they hadn't responded by coming yet. So we took the presentation to them. We didn't know ahead of time what we were doing, but God did. After the presentation, we went back to the building and made balloon animals for the kids, Jeff played catch and talked with a couple of the people, and Chris used this time to teach people about the wordless book bracelets they were handing out. It was great to be a part of it.

Finally, we headed home and had taco's for dinner – very delicioso. By the way, we have been eating very well, some a little too well :-). After dinner, we were able to listen to Librada as she shared her testimony. She talked about the murder of her brother, the death of her mother, her life of drugs and other things. Then she talked about God's saving grace in her life. Bringing her to Ruth and Manuel's home and of course to a saving knowledge of Himself. Many eyes were tearing up by the end of her sharing. It was very impacting for the group.

After a brief break, we met again to talk about what the group has been seeing God do over the past few days. The talked for almost an hour about what they are learning, how they have seen God, and what they are hoping to see changed in their lives. God is working on the hearts of our group. I am thrilled to be a part of what God is doing.

Back to work tomorrow – after a 5:00 wake up to sing Happy Birthday to Katy. We will see how that goes...

Mexico Trip - Day 5

Today began very differently, as we knew there was going to be no physical labor. There was a relaxed atmosphere as the kids enjoyed playing a little ball even before breakfast. We were all looking forward to a trip to the city and shopping. I took the opportunity to skype Dee then, and it was obvious that she is struggling with being alone. Both Kendra and Brooke are busy with sports and work, so the past two days of being home is wearing on her. We had a nice talk, but I would have loved to reach through the computer and wrap my arms around her. Without her support and knowing that she is alright, my efforts here are useless.

After a great breakfast of eggs and bacon, we had a little devotional time followed by the beginnings of a Rage game. The game was interrupted by an announcement time about what we were going to have to deal with during the day – keeping our passports, taking care of money as we shop, bartering with the shop owners, etc. Just basic information for survival in the market place. We then made our lunch – mine included a ham and cheese (with mayo) peanut butter and jelly (strawberry) sandwich. Yum!! Then we loaded up for our trip into town.

We headed first to the Aztec pyramid, going to a museum and walking around the excavations of the pyramid. We learned that there had been a collapse inside so the interior part of the pyramid would not be open until August. As we walked around the base of the pyramid, we stopped to do some shopping. I just watched the people shop. I did have the opportunity to give a little girl a “wordless book” bracelet. Only God knows the fruit of that encounter.

After that we walked up to the cathedral that the Spanish built on top of the mound of dirt they placed over the pyramid. It was a long and tedious walk – numerous stairs – too many to count. The view was amazing! You could see for miles. Volcanoes, mountains, and lots of houses. We learned that 96 % of the people in Puebla profess to be catholic. It was sad to think about.

We headed down the mountain to lunch. We ate under a tree, and we learned some of the skills of the team. Nate, the tree climber and Eli, the apple tearer, exhibited their skills. I had never seen anyone tear an apple in half – but he did it numerous times. Maybe I will try it later. I am worried that I will crush the apple before it breaks – you know – P90X and all...

After lunch we loaded up for a drive down town to go shopping. We had a lot of fun looking at all of the things the team members purchased. As I was looking for something for my wife and children, I saw a dress that just jumped out and said, “buy me – Dee will look gorgeous in it!” I had a hard time bartering since I really wanted it. I got a different colored one for the girls as well – they will look good in them also. Due to the World Cup being on tomorrow, I kept looking for jerseys for Harrison, and I could not find one. I did find a shirt and poncho for me however! Anyway, with 13 minutes left in our shopping time, I found out about a place outside of the shopping area, and went quickly to find Harrison a jersey. Sure enough, I found him a team Mexico jersey – I really think he will like it.

I hustled back to the rest of the team – with minutes to spare. We started walking for the cathedral on the other side of town. It was a LONG walk – but very pleasant since the sun had gone behind the clouds. Earlier in the day, people everywhere were looking for shade – it was extremely hot. Anyway, we arrived at the cathedral, and it was a massive building, very beautiful, but filled with images of a fallen, dying and dead Christ. It was a place without hope. Missing the message of grace by inches, but as a result, missing the blessings of Christ by an eternity. Again, it was very impactful.

We left there an headed for dinner at a restaurant. Forty people trying to fit into a small, Christian owned restaurant downtown was not an easy feat, but we had a great time. I think the people there really enjoyed having our group. We had musicians come in and bless us – and sing to Katy because she is turning 15 on Monday. The meal was delicious – genuine Mexican. Oh, I forgot to mention, (I remember it because we were watching TV) USA lost to Ghana today 2-1. It was very disheartening for the team. Tomorrow, Mexico plays Argentina – I hope for better things for Mexico, but it doesn't look good.

As we arrived home, I jumped on Skype to check on Dee, and she was doing much better. I showed her some of the things that I purchased, and even though she really couldn't get a handle on what they really looked like, she graciously acted excited. I am really looking forward to seeing the dress on her.

By 8:45 were ready for devotions. The team sang songs, and I was brought to tears as again I was reminded of my great God who forgave me of my sin and chose to use me in spite of my sin. He is a great God – I don't understand Him, but I thank Him for his willingness to use me. I opened the floor for discussion about the day, and the team shared the things God taught them Much was said about the Cathedrals that we were able to visit. The team is opening up more frequently. It is exciting to watch. I had the privilege of talking about Matthew 5:17-20, 48. It was a good discussion.

Following devos, we played Rage. Matt won again, but just by a point. Eli was right behind.

As we wrapped up for bed, I noticed that 2 of the guys were outside, and I had the chance to encourage them with some things that God has taught me. I was able to listen to things they were struggling with and challenge them to continue to grow in their walk with God. It was a great 30 minute talk. We ended with a “group hug” including my “I'm-not-gay” three pat - I was blessed by God to be part of their lives at that moment.

As I laid down for bed, I couldn't sleep – hence the typing at 12:30 in the morning. I laid and prayed for God to continue to work on me. I need the obedience of Noah, the faith of Abram, the faithfulness of Joseph, the humility of Moses, the boldness of Joshua, the heart of David, the determination of Daniel, the passion of Paul... and so many other things. I want these things, but I need to want them more. God has been so good to me, and I am so frail.

Well, it is late, and it is already tomorrow, so officially this should be on Day 6 – but I guess since I am writing, I am the one who gets to decide.

Tomorrow (or actually today) we are going to church and then ministering at a camp. It is going to be fun, but a lot of work. I better get to bed.

Mexico Trip - Day 4

Throughout the day, we got back to work and finished getting the ditch dug for the large sewer line. We also dug the final lengths for the connecting lines and finished one of them. The ladies helped paint Librada's home and finished sealing the roof. The afternoon was spent refilling the ditches – a job that will take us well into Monday. I have been amazed at the work that this team has been able to accomplish, of course with 30 people, it is to be expected to get a lot of work done, but they have done massive amounts of work.

Lunch was much like other days, but we had a mushroom and noodle soup with mashed potatoes and corn. Of course, my plate was just filled with corn. Jeremy shared his testimony, and then we took some time for worship. It was very exciting.

The remainder of the day was pretty normal, we just found out today what we are going to do tomorrow. The kids are getting excited about the chance to see Mayan ruins and go out to eat at a truly Mexican restaruant.

In the evening, we had our devotional time and I asked the group to share the things they are learning about God. A couple of the kids shared, and then things got quiet. Matt looked at me and said, “What did God teach you today?” I had the chance to talk about the lesson God reminded me of life being about Him and His glory, not me and mine. During the day, I had a number of situations where people I was interacting with I was not certain what they were thinking in regards to me. For instance, I was trying to help Roy mix some concrete, and twice I slopped him with the mix. I apologized after the first time, but just seconds later, I did it again.. He filled his trough with concrete and slapped it at me. I know he was not mad, but I also thought he thought I did it on purpose. His demeanor changed, and I wrestled with what he was thinking about me. I was convicted that regardless of what he was thinking about me, that was not important. I needed to do whatever was necessary to resolve the issue, but I needed to make sure that it was not because of me that I worried about what he was thinking.

The day ended with a great game of Rage. The kids loved learning the game, and Matt ended up being our first winner. I was impressed with how quickly they picked up on the game. There was a lot of “getting other people” in the game. It was a lot of fun.

Something else I have not mentioned is our evening activity when the guys are in bed. We have ended most nights with riddles, and then a word of prayer. I have really enjoyed getting to know these kids.

Looking forward to a great day tomorrow.

Mexico Trip - Day 3

Woke up and had breakfast at around 8. After breakfast the team was given a little time for morning devotions. Then we headed outside for our morning assignments. We found out that they had changed the plan for the ditch, and it was very good news. The ditch would be changed from the original plan to a revised layout that would require less digging! Praise the Lord. This news was met with much excitement. So the work began and we broke into teams. Sealing the roof with paint, laying the concrete in the new room, digging a new ditch, and of course digging in the sewage line. By the end of the day, we had made great progress on most jobs.

After work, the evening went much like yesterday, we had dinner, a break time – some of the kids went outside and played basketball – and then praise and worship, followed by a discussion on the Beatitudes. During the singing, it was obvious that some of the kids were wrestling with things. As of yet, I have not had the opportunity to talk with them, but we will see as the week progresses.

Something else we started today was a testimony at meal time. Mariah shared her testimony, and then we did some singing. The team sang 2 songs in Spanish. The people here at the church joined in and then asked us to sing another song with them. It was a wonderful time of connecting with the workers.

The day ended with an attempt at a game of Rage, but we had to go to bed by 10, so time was limited.

I am praying for opportunities to talk to the individual team members, and so far it has been very fruitful to interact with them. I have enjoyed learning about them and their understanding of the Gospel. The task is large, and sometimes that makes it more difficult, but if I keep a focus on one person at a time, I am certain God will give me an opportunity to talk with most of the team. Jeff asked me about my background today, and I hope to share my testimony sometime this week. As always this will not be easy, but I am sure that God will use it.

Mexico Trip - Day 2

The day began with breakfast at 9:00 because of the late arrival. We began working at about 11:00 after some morning devotional time and our orientation/job assignments.

We instituted a list of job assignments for the week, and were pretty optimistic about the completion of many of them. As the morning progressed, we had a back hoe come in an begin digging the larger portion of the ditch for the sewage line. By lunch time, they had completed most of the digging for the large ditch, and we had completed most of the digging for the ditch to connect the building to the sewage line. However, briefly after lunch, we were told that the ditch was not dug enough, and that we would have to hand dig massive amounts in the ditch. It was a disappointing realization, as we were already 7+ feet in the ground, and all dirt removal would have to be done bucket by bucket a very tedious, and almost an insurmountable task. The team took the information in stride, and we worked very hard to do what could be done.

After a long day of work, we had dinner, and then a little rest time before meeting together for worship and singing. We spent some time in God's word. We also talked about the highlights for the day. Conversations with the people that worked there and playing with the children at the school topped the list of favorites.

God is going to do amazing things with this team. They are hard working, others centered, loving one another, and serving for God's glory. We are praying that tomorrow brings better things in regards to work, but regardless, we will accomplish what we can for His glory.

Mexico Trip - Day 1 (more)

For the past 2 days the team has spent some time (Sunday and Monday) meeting and preparing for the trip. Last night we had a worship meeting enjoying singing and praying in preparation for what God was going to do this week. Today I arrived at the airport around 9:45 expecting the team to arrive at 11:00. They arrived a little earlier,and things went smoothly as we made our way through ticketing, security, and on to our gate.

The first flight, we boarded a plane that one team member said was as small as a school bus. It was a propelled plane that held 37 passengers. With our team of 30, we pretty much filled up the entire plane. It was a lot of fun – lots of laughing. Especially when the plane door closed and instantly the compartment was pressurized – instant ear pressure. The flight went smoothly and we arrived in Newark on time.

Our second flight was delayed about 15 minutes before we boarded and made our way to the tarmac. Then came the excitement. We sat in that plane for almost 2 hours without moving. The pilot even came on the PA and let us know that he had shut the plane off – weather in our path was too dangerous to maneuver through.

On the plane, 2 of the team members (Miranda and Roy) sat next to a young lady and had the opportunity to share the gospel with her. She made a profession of faith on the plane, and asked that they come to New York to share the good news with her cousin. They encouraged her to talk with her cousin, and they gave her the scriptures to use to share with her. She also called her mother on the plane and told her the good news.

Eventually we left and arrived in Mexico City at 11:30 (about 1 hour and 40 minutes after scheduled). Our transition through immigration and customs was seamless, and on to meet with the people who were picking us up. Janelle and Librada met us at the airport in a very nice “greyhound” style bus. After our first plane, this was a welcomed sight. They had ham sandwiches and PB&J for us on the bus.

A 2 hour drive concluded our transit from the States, and we laid down to sleep about 2:30 in the morning.

God kept us safe and reminded us that He is in control of all things. It was a very good day.

Mexico trip - Day 1

It is 10:30 Tuesday morning, and already I am wearing the wrong shirt (wearing the team shirt from Guatemala), I've left my cell phone at home (not a big deal), and I am waiting for the team to arrive. I expect they will be here in the next 30 minutes of so, and it is going to be a wonderful trip.

Usually I write my day reports at the conclusion of the day, but this one needs to record the days leading up to today. Sunday I had the privilege of going to Berean Bible Church for worship in the morning. They began the service with a brief video for Father's day that included uses for Duct Tape - like quieting your children, corralling your children, fixing stuff, etc. It was my kind of video. As I read through their church information, I realized that we see eye to eye on a lot of things.

Well, they just showed up - I will write more later.

Mexico Schedule of Events...

Tuesday, June 22 
Leave Philadelphia and fly to Mexico via Newark. Arrive in Mexico City late in the evening, board a bus for Puebla. Arrive in Puebla, get settled in, get some rest.
Wednesday, June 23
Begin the day with orientation with Ruth and Manuel. Then we will begin working on the projects, caring for the children, helping around the church/school, maybe even do home visits.
Thursday, June 24
Continue the work that was begun on Wednesday.
Friday, June 25
Same as Thursday
Saturday, June 26
Touring Puebla, visit the market, take some time to pray for the people of Mexico.
Sunday, June 27
Church service (preaching / testimonies / songs), lunch afterwards.
P.M. Huejotzingo mission with church members
Return for dinner at church
Monday, June 28 
Back to work – continuing projects as needed.
Tuesday, June 29
Same as Monday
Wednesday, June 30
Be involved in a evangelical outreach at Dios es Amor
Thursday, June 1
Start wrapping things up with the people and the projects that we have been involved with – begin preparing our hearts, minds, bodies, and luggage for the trip home.
Friday, June 2
Take the bus back to Mexico City, then heading home. Arriving back in Philadelphia with a deeper understanding of God, missions, and the country of Mexico.

Mid-summer thoughts...

Just a few weeks ago I returned from Guatemala (El Salvador) with a team of 10 from New Hampshire. In just a few short days, I will be leaving with a team of 30 to go to Mexico, a country I have yet to be in. Two weeks after my return, I leave again with a team from Chattanooga to Peru. Busy, busy, busy.

I am so thankful that God has allowed me to work with individuals in this capacity. It is exciting getting to talk with people who are on a missions trip because they are expecting God to do something - and often He does. They get excited about serving God. They get excited about returning home and living for Him there. They even get excited about the possibility of serving full time in missions.

What also makes my ministry so much fun is being the liaison between the people here in the states and the ministry overseas. I love coming home and sharing the stories, showing the pictures, talking with people about what God is doing. It is thrilling to see the excitement that people express as they think about the possibility of joining us in the future.

I am often reminded that I do not deserve this ministry. The enemy seeks to remind me of my faults and failures. It is then that I must remind myself that it is because of Christ that I do what I do. It is because of Christ that I am who I am. It is because of Christ that I have been blessed with something to share with others.

If you are doing well and rejoicing in what God has done for you today - remember that it is from God. If you are struggling and the enemy is seeking to destroy you - remember it is because of Christ that you can stand and defeat the enemy.

I hope I can remember this truth - if you get a chance remind me (or others) as you have the opportunity.