In Love with the Guatemalan People...

Thursday, June 23, 2011

Yes, it's true - Guatemala is an absolutely beautiful country with majestic mountains, rich and green countrysides, and picture perfect sunsets. However, as we have come to learn this week - the real beauty of Guatemala lies in the Guatemalan people. As we traveled the past several days from the MMM center on Monday morning to the remote areas of San Sebastian and San Marcos on Tuesday and Wednesday and today to Amatitlan, we were blessed to have an opportunity to share the the love of Jesus with so many wonderful people. The love that they returned to each of us was beyond measure. I would like to share a few of the details with you now that we have internet access again (and warm showers...!)

As we transitioned from restful Antigua to the MMM center outside of Guatemala City, we began to focus on what God called us each here to do. Monday morning began with wonderful worship music as we prepared our hearts for our upcoming travels and clinic visits. Dr. Alb reminded us that God called each of us to Guatemala not only to serve the Guatemalan people, but more importantly because He wanted to have a personal encounter with each of us while we were here. He really encouraged us to spend time to seek God this week so that His "hidden treasures" would be revealed to us (Jeremiah 33:3).

After our devotional time on Monday, our departure was delayed about 90 minutes due to a mechanical problem with one of the vehicles. We used the opportunity to pray as a team for our upcoming travels nearly 7 hours away. We arrived in San Sebastian a few hours late and all of the people that we were there to see had left! It was dark and quiet at the school. However, as word spread throughout the community that we were there, people began to arrive! We quickly set-up the pharmacy, doctor stations, gospel stations, and a place for the children to meet. We encountered so many wonderful people that not only needed the medicine that we were there to provide, but needed to hear that God loved them and desired a personal relationship with them through Jesus Christ. So many people were prayed for and encouraged by our visit - we stayed late into the evening. It was truly inspiring and a wonderful way to end a rather long travel day.

We arrived at the church where we would conduct Tuesday's clinic at close to 11pm - everyone was exhausted from our travel day and busy clinic. However, there was more work to be done. The 6 suburbans we traveled in needed to be unloaded and reloaded since the women were spending the night in one of the host's homes in the area. By the time the cots were set-up at both locations, it was well past midnight. Since we were at an elevation of approximately 8,000 ft, the temperatures were quite low. Many spent the night trying to stay warm in their sleeping bags.

The morning arrived quickly as we met at the church where the staff served us a traditional Guatemalan breakfast. The love and kindness that the church staff showed us during our visit was overwhelming - they appreciated our visit so much, they did everything possible to make us feel welcome. During our devotion time, Dr. Alb continued to encourage us to lean into God and to continue to spend time with him so His plans for our life "hidden treasures" would be revealed to us. Caroline Schuler and Laura Chafin did a wonderful job of leading us with several worship songs. We ended our devotion time in prayer for the team and for the hearts of the Guatemalan people that we would soon encounter.

The clinic was extremely busy all day. We had 3 doctors, a dentist, eyeglass fitting station, and 6 gospel stations set-up. Throughout the day, we saw over 70 patients and many accepted Christ for the first time! We were also blessed to experience God's healing power of several people that we prayed for. There were many believers in the wonderful church and we encountered many people that were humbled and appreciative of God's grace and mercy in their lives. I remember one father of five children who sobbed uncontrollably as we prayed for him and for his family. He knew firsthand that God loved him and his family as he did his best to support and provide for his family despite adverse circumstances. This humility and love of the Lord was repeated time and time again throughout the day in many gospel stations. It is here that we really encountered the true character and spirit of the Guatemalan people.

On Wednesday, we met early for our devotion time and really took the time to pray for one another and to share our experiences from the clinics. It was incredible to learn about the needs that we had just within the team. It was a time of humility and transparency as many shared the concerns and fears that were on our hearts. It made us all realize that God was at work not only in the lives of the Guatemalan people, but also in our own lives. We took the time to surround and pray for each other. It was an emotional but wonderful experience that God used not only to draw the team together, but more importantly to prepare our hearts even more for what we were about to encounter over the next several days. Our work for what God called us to do was not yet complete in Guatemala.

After our devotional time, we headed to San Marcos for the balance of the day. We arrived at school in the heart of the city and there were about 50 people already waiting to meet with us. After quickly getting set-up at our various stations, we met with over 60 people at this clinic. We prayed over the individual needs of everyone we met with. Since this was a school, there were many families and children. It was pure joy to see the smiles on the faces of the children as we played with them, hugged them, and shared God's love with them. We witnessed a daughter coming to Christ for the first time in the presence of her mother who was a believer and had been praying for years that her daughter would come to know the Lord and another woman who shed tears of joy because she was given reading glasses for the first time. Once again, the wonderful spirit of the Guatemalan people showed through. The church staff served us a wonderful lunch and were all so gracious and appreciative of our visit. It was difficult to say goodbye as we embarked on about a 6 hour journey back to the MMM center in Guatemala city.

We arrived back at the MMM center quite late but with a delicious dinner awaiting us. Several took showers for the first time in 3 days! We met as a team briefly before the day was over to discuss our plans for the following day. After a good night's rest for the team, we started the day with breakfast followed by our devotion time. The team from Perimeter Church had also returned and had similar stories to share of their wonderful encounter with the Guatemalan people. It seems our devotion time was becoming even more meaningful each day as we reflected on the work that God called us to do but also the changes that were taking place within each of us. It seems that most of us were stretched outside of our comfort zone in many ways and God simply showed up to fill in the gaps and to give us a measure of his strength, wisdom, and perseverance just when we needed it the most. Many firsthand experiences were shared by the team where fears, concerns, or feelings of inadequacy were overcome by God's mercy, grace, and power. God was simply continuing to work in each of our hearts to help grow our faith and trust in Him throughout the week.

After our devotion time, the Seek & Serve team headed to Amatitlan for our last and final clinic during the week. It was only about 30 minutes away, but by all indications it was in a very poor part of town. The church were we conducted the clinic had no walls, simply a tin roof. Because of a dispute about over-billing, they had no power for the last three months. Despite their adversity, this was a thriving and growing church that was in fact a beacon of light for the community (their nickname was the Lighthouse). We met the poorest of the poor. Many families with many children just barely getting by. Many men and women were out of work. Many had several health afflictions. The dental station was very busy throughout the day. Despite their adversity, we met many people that were filled with joy because of their relationship with Jesus Christ. We also met several people that did not understand the gospel message but were willing to learn more and several that accepted Christ throughout the day. One woman in particular who literally had to be carried into the clinic because of her sickness, her strong faith was rewarded as several of her children and even her husband came to Christ as several members of the team spent hours laying hands on her and praying for her and her family. We left the last clinic around 4pm with lots of hugs and adoration and prayer from the staff there.

So, as the week draws to a close, I believe I can speak boldly on behalf of the group - this has been an unbelievable week experiencing God's power at work not only at the clinics but within our own lives. The love, faith, and hope of the Guatemalan people has made an indelible impression on all of us and we can honestly say, we are in love with these beautiful people. Thank you God for revealing your love for each and every one of us through this mission trip.

In His name,

Rob

Praising God in Guatemala City!

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Having been to Guatemala two years ago, one of the most memorable events was experiencing worship at a Guatemalan church. Today was no exception. We had the joy and opportunity to worship at Inglesia Vida Real, one of the plant churches in the area. It was a beautiful service with touching worship music that we all recognized and a sermon that focussed on the key elements of successful relationships using Romans 12:2 as a backdrop. It was a very relevant sermon applicable equally to singles, couples, and to those who were married. We were also blessed to receive communion during today's service.

Although Guatemala celebrated Father's Day last Friday with lots of fireworks, we celebrated today. There were many phone calls from the team today to children, father's and even grandfather's today. We even received a few calls at the mission house for a few of the dad's that are part of the team. Father's Day was even mentioned during the worship service we heard today reminding all of us of our Heavenly Father's great love for us!

After church we went to one of the area's shopping malls and had a traditional American lunch at, well of all places, Chili's! With the two teams (one from Fellowship and one from Perimeter) reaching beyond 40 people, we took over a a large area of the restaurant. Everyone had a great time together in fellowship and we were pleased to have Joel and Cheri Berry safely back in our group after they returned to Guatemala following a wedding in Atlanta. After lunch and a quick stop at the MMM center for a change of clothes, we headed over to the children's orphanage for the remainder of the afternoon.

At the orphanage the team dispersed and quickly got engaged with the children of all ages there. Many went to the nursery, while others played with the younger children, and several interacted with the young adults there. Several of the team members have been there many times before so there were lots of hugs all around. Everyone seemed so happy to have us there - even if it was only for a few hours. We played lots of games, played on the playground, sang songs, and handed out candy to show them that God loves and cares for them. It was sad to leave, but several team members will be back in a little more than a week to complete an important project there.

Overall, it was a relaxing and restful day just as the Sabbath should be. We spent the day in fellowship with each other and more importantly with God's children. What a blessing.

In His name,

Rob

We arrived safely at the Medical Missions Ministry Center!

Saturday, June 18th, 2011

Well, we have arrived! The new medical missions ministry center is absolutely beautiful! The pictures don't tell half of the story. It is so beautiful and a wonderful setup for many mission teams for years to come! We are really blessed to be here. So on behalf of the Seek and Serve team that is here now, thank you to everyone who has made this new center a reality!

We enjoyed our last day in Antigua - it started out as a beautiful day and we had a restful and slow paced morning. Later in the afternoon, the rains came and continued throughout the afternoon. In fact, it has been raining non-stop since we arrived at the MMM center. Many spent the morning shopping and gathering last minute gifts for sponsors and loved ones. The markets are always a great place to shop for many wonderful handcrafted gifts and it can be somewhat fun to barter with the shop sellers to get the best price. However, the reality is that many of these people depend on their shop sales for their families livelihood as evidenced by the many children that are working or playing in the shops where their parents work. It's a way of life for them and one that causes us to pause to appreciate the blessings that many of us take for granted in the United States. We are also very appreciative for the hotel staff at Hotel el Meson de Maria that took such good care of us in Antigua. Future Seek and Serve teams will definitely be coming back to stay there!

We appreciate all of your prayers as we continue to prepare our hearts for the work that we came here to do. The suburban's are loaded with supplies and we are well stocked with food for our trek to the villages to serve the Guatemalan people. We will stay here tomorrow night and then head out to our first church on Monday morning. We also met the Perimeter team members who will join us for the church service tomorrow in Antigua.

Thank you again for your prayers!

In His name,

Rob

Another Beautiful Day in Antiqua!

Friday, June 17, 2011

The team appreciated another beautiful day in Antiqua as we were blessed with perfect weather. After breakfast the students completed their studies at the Spanish language school where they received their diplomas. Several of the teachers joined our team on a walk and hike to Cerro de la Cruz (Hill of the Cross) where we enjoyed fellowship together and took panoramic pictures of the beautiful countryside. After lunch, several of the team members went to the special needs hospital again where they had an opportunity to serve many of the people there. It was an emotional experience due to the significance of their need. Later in the afternoon, we all practiced delivering the good news message during our gospel station practice. While some are nervous over so openly sharing their faith, several of the team members who have participated before helped ease their concerns.

This evening, much to the delight of the younger team members, the teenagers and adults went to separate restaurants for dinner. A great time was had by all and we capped off the evening with a wonderful birthday celebration for Jordan Meredith's 17th birthday. With the hotel's help, we held a party in the hotel's courtyard complete with a delicious cake and even a piñata! Everyone enjoyed watching several of the teenagers swing, miss, and finally connect with the piñata to release all of the candy. David Consoli led our devotion tonight with a message of the importance of having a strong faith and the quiet confidence that results from believing in what God can/will do. This is a good reminder to our efforts next week as we enter the mission field trusting earnestly in God to prepare us to deliver His word and to prepare the hearts of the Guatemalan people to receive this good news.

In His name,

Rob

Team Reunited in Antiqua!

Thursday, June 16, 2011

We are very thankful for a problem free trip for the rest of the team to Guatemala - there were no lines, no problems going through security/customs and no flight delays. God seems to be going ahead of our team and clearing the way for HIs work to be done. We arrived in Antiqua and met the rest of the team with lots of hugs in the afternoon after they completed their language school in the morning. Apparently, several of the team members had a wonderful time at the local farmer's market - so much fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, dried fish, etc. but more importantly, it was humbling to see so many native Guatemalan's that are truly dependent on this source of income for their families.

We enjoyed a time of great fellowship together over a late lunch - all 23 of us. Some went to the Artisan market in afternoon, while others rested from their trip and worked on their Spanish homework for school. We had a nice dinner together and ended the day with an inspirational devotion by Carl Meredith reminding all of us of the hopes and dreams of the Guatemalan people that we are honored to serve and to show the love of Christ.

The team is becoming more and more aware of the week ahead as we grow closer serving God's people. There is an excitement building as we are anticipating all that God is going to do. We feel privileged and honored to be a part of His plan.

In His name,

Rob

Guatemala Hospital Opportunity

Wednesday, June 15, 2011   Guatemala Hospital Opportunity   Well, it is Wednesday and we are half way through language school. So much to learn. We went to the main Guatemala hospital today and spent time with some of the younger children, ages 2 and up. It was a very hard place to be. There were aproximately 50 children with Cerebal Palsy. Very thankful that God provided this time for us to love on these children. This was not a scheduled opportunity. We covered for the nurses while they had their meeting. What precious little souls. It is amazing what attention and a little touch can do. Thank you Lord for this unexpected opportunity.   Posted by Renee Boal

June 15

Well it is here – the second group leaves tomorrow morning (James Akin, David Boal, Laura Chafin, Rob Consoli, Peter Fleming, Katie Kinsey and me). Friday Cheri Berry flies back home as Joel and Cheri have a wedding to attend on Saturday. Then on Sunday Joel and Cheri join us.

Please pray for:

1. Please pray for rest tonight for those leaving in the morning: Matthew 11:27-29 “"All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

2. Our travel tomorrow, Friday and Sunday - Pray for travel mercies with safety, timeliness, luggage, and room arrangements. Pray for team bonding, unity and health of team members: Acts 15:3-4 “The church sent them on their way, and as they traveled through Phoenicia and Samaria, they told how the Gentiles had been converted. This news made all the brothers very glad. When they came to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church and the apostles and elders, to whom they reported everything God had done through them.”

3. Most of all please pray for our Gospel stations and the US/Guatemala team. Pray that their lives will be in obedience to God. Pray that the team functions in complete unity by the Spirit. Pray for God’s wisdom to be present in their eyes, hands, mouths and feet as they minister to the medically and spiritually needy. Romans 15:15 – 17 “Yet I have written you quite boldly on some points to remind you of them again, because of the grace God gave me to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles. He gave me the priestly duty of proclaiming the gospel of God, so that the Gentiles might become an offering acceptable to God, sanctified by the Holy Spirit. Therefore I glory in Christ Jesus in my service to God."

Thank you all for praying for these last few weeks – God bless you all!

Update from Antigua - June 14

Hola to our friends and family...and especailly to our teammates still in the US! (We are having a wonderful time learning the language and the culture but are eager for you to join us! ) Today was our 2nd day of class and we have all settled into a routine with our teachers. Everyone is diligent during the class hours and committed to homework as well! Most of the team is attending an additional lecture this evening on Guatemala and Antigua. The days begin early and are very full...but the pace is still sweetly slower than our normal pace.  We are trying very hard to have a Guatemalan mindset in this area!

Even though its rainy season, we have yet to see much rain- a blessing as we walk everywhere- many blocks a day!

We are all feeling well and anticipating a great remainder of school and an awesome week with Medical Missions! Please continue to pray for supernatural synapses (especially for the older members of the team!).  We want to be diligent to prepare for what God has for us next week and use what we are learning! We are all overwhelmed with God's goodness in allowing us such a beautiful time together as a team and for those of you who have made it possible.!

Our love to you for the team, Pam

What is the Romans Road to salvation?

I'm in the process of tabbing my Spanish/English Bible and found this link on the internet. It's a very clear explanation of how to use Romans to share the message of salvation.  Check it out ...
What is the Romans Road to salvation?

June 14

1. Pray specifically for those we will minister to while in Guatemala – that God prepare hearts, bodies and souls! Psalm 127:1 “Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.”

2. Weather (though it will be much cooler in the mountain villages (up to 8,000 feet), lows in the 50’s), June is the rainy season they get about 9 inches and it rains 21 days: High in the 70's and lows in the 60's. Other facts:

a. Guatemala City population – 2.3 million

b. Independence in 1821

c. Modern city with McDonalds, god restaurant, etc

3. Schedule for the rest of trip

Monday, June 13th-Friday June 17th:

-Team studies Spanish at Christian Spanish Academy 8am-12pm

Thursday June 16th:

-Remaining 8 team members arrive

Friday, June 17th:

-AM Spanish school .

-PM Team Gospel Station Prep time

Saturday, June 18th:

- Team moves to MMM mission house and settles in;

-Gals do BIG grocery shop and guys get supplies organized.

Sunday, June 19th:

-Church- Guatemalan style! Visit Casa Para Niño’s Orphanage in PM/Pack for mountains!

Monday, June 20th:

-Clinic #1- San Marcos/ Team sleeps at San Marcos

Tuesday, June 21st:

-Clinic #2- San Sebastian, San Marcos/ Team sleeps at San Marcos

Wednesday, June 22nd:

-Clinic #3-San Marcos /Team Sleeps at Mission House

Thursday, June 23rd:

-Clinic #4-Amatitlan/Team Sleeps at Mission House

Friday, June 24th:

-Team off day- Antigua, volcano, visit ruins, etc…Team Celebration dinner in PM/ PACK!

Saturday June 25th:

-18 members depart Guatemala on Delta flight 466 at 7:53am / Arrive Atlanta at 12:30 pm

- Berry’s depart Guatemala on Delta Flt. 596 at 12:31 /Arrive Atlanta 6:06pm/ 3 to Casa

-ALL TEAM will unpack at Chafin’s (family/friends can meet us here)

Guatemala Medical Missions trip Update

Monday, June 13, 2011 Guatemala Medical Missions Trip Update Today was our first day at the CSA language School from 8 to 12. We each met our new teachers and enjoyed a brief orientation to the town of Antigua.  While taking us to the many wonderful restaurants in the city, our fearless leader Pam, has kept us well-fed. After a relaxing lunch at Café Condessa, many of us strolled through the artisan market enjoying all of the beautiful homemade Guatemalan goods. We spent the rest of the day relaxing and doing homework. We finished the day with dinner, a prayer time with the team, and finally bed. Tomorrow starts a brand new language school day. Please keep us in your prayers as we continue to prepare our hearts and minds for the mission week ahead.

June 13

Please pray for the team while they are in Antigua: Safety, team bonding, obedience, Pray for the imparting of knowledge & quick recall while team studies Spanish at Christian Spanish Academy this week. Also for acclimation - pray for the team to get acclimated to Guatemala in Antigua and use the week in Language School to minister to locals and prepare for the medical mission part of the trip.

John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Great Day in Guatemala

Just wanted to send an update on our day in Guatemala. Today was our team off day, so we journeyed 2 hours to Lake Atitlan to go ziplining and hiking. It was a great experience and even those who were not planning on participating did. Although, many were anxious at first, it ended up being an incredible adventure. The view was amazing. We even saw monkeys and spanish racoons. We were introduced deeper into the Guatemala culture as our ride throughout the day consisted of many small towns and cities. We were blessed to have a reliable and friendly tour guide named Fransisco. We finished the day with a late dinner and a small prayer for our team. Spanish school starts tomorrow. Be praying for open minds, easy understanding and patience. We expect God to do great things and further prepare us for our missions next week at the clinics. Thank you for your prayers!

Be blessed,

Guatemala Team

An Update from Antigua - June 12

It is about 6:30am here. I have been up about an hour..beat everyone else up and to the computer! The service is very hit or miss.

Yesterday was tiring but smooth. Nothing went fast but everything went well...all luggage arrived...hotel beautiful and expecting us! Because everything took so long (traffic to ATL airport, ticketing, LONG line at Guat bathroom after deplaneing, slow to exchange money)- we were very HUNGRY AND THIRSTY! We got moved in and finally sat down for a light "lunch" at 3:30! Fear not...the next meal in Antigua is never far away! I think all the first timers are enchanted with this city already...it is an amazing oppotunity to be amidst the culture and learn all God has for us this year.

We ended the day with a brief devotion and prayer time and RAN to bed!

As a team leader, you find out lots about your new team on travel day...and I am happy to report this is an amazing team! Humble, patient, servants...the 2 weeks will be so great getting to know and serve with all these folks!

We are leaving for the lake area today at 9...it will be most all day. Finally getting to know one another is awesome! Then school begins on Monday! A few broke out spanish workbooks and vocab cards to prepare! We will get lots of practice today as our driver is NOT bilingual! Corrie ( one of our team) is pretty dog-gone fluent conversationally so that is a big help! Cheri and I are working on our spanglish! Everyone will know more than when we arrived and hopefully use that effectively next week! Thanks for your prayers.. Pam

June 10

1. From the prayer calendar: Pray for final preparation. No detail forgotten. Packing comes together. Pray for physical, emotional, and spiritual preparedness.

2. Rest and Peace - Pray for a restful day with family and friends and a great night's sleep for those who will gather at 6:00 on Saturday morning. Pray that the opportunity of being in Him will produce peace. Believe that rest is the preparation for service. Bless his Spirit with eyes to see, and ears to hear all God has for him. John 16:33 - "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

3. Group 1 travel - Team members depart on 15 team members depart on Delta flight 461 at 9:50 am and arrive in Guatemala City at 11:18 am. Team transported to Antigua, Guatemala hotel (here until 6/18) Hotel Mesón de María, 3A CALLE ORIENTE #8, ANTIGUA , GUATEMALA.. Pray for travel mercies with safety, timeliness, luggage, and room arrangements. Pray for team bonding, unity and health of team members. John 17:11 – “I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them by the power of your name—the name you gave me—so that they may be one as we are one.” Cheri Berry, Renee Boal, Pam Chafin, David Consoli, Becky Fleming, Amy Geiken, Kerri Geiken, Ruth Kennedy, Kellye Lloyd, Carl Merideth, Jordan Merideth, Jan Schuler, Caroline Schuler, Marina Tarabicos, and Corrie Williams.

June 9

We had a very successful packing party last night – thank you so much for your prayers!

1. From the Prayer Calendar: Team health - No illness before trip, in Antigua or during our mission days. Ask God to show each of us what diet modifications we need to start making today to prepare for the trip. 1 Cor. 6:19 “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own”

2. Details of the trip:

· Dates of trip

o Language school group (16) leaving June 11

o Remainder of group (7) leaving June 16 and 1 on June 19.

o All return June 25

· Purpose of mission – This is a medical mission led by Pam Chafin. Our host is Dr. Herman Alb, his wife Linda, and their staff. We are there to minister to the locals who are receiving medical treatment at the clinics that Dr. Alb and his staff provide. There are a number of Gospel stations set up. This is all done through translators.

June 8

Thank you once again for your prayers!

1. From the Prayer Calendar: Corrie Williams - Pray she will rest in the knowledge that God is already preparing the people in Guatemala who she will meet, that her heart will be ready to hear God's voice and that she will be ready to receive what God wants her to learn through them. Deut. 31:8 “The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” I think sometimes we forget God is with us at all times and therefore we forget to call on God at all times throughout the day – we so tend to compartmentalize our lives and forget that God is not part of lives but He is our life! Remember to “pray continually” as we talk to the people of Guatemala and God promises provide the wisdom and courage we need!

2. For our wonderful leader: Pam Chafin – First we are all so, so thankful for all that Pam does to make this trip be so successful and rewarding. Second, please pray for Pam for energy and strength for the next 72 hours before departure on Saturday. Lord please encourage Pam, please give the your wisdom to lead us over the next 2+ weeks, and please defeat the enemy, the great deceiver, on Pam’s behalf - We all know Lord that Satan loves to attack our leaders so please protect Pam. And Father please help all of us team member to submit to Pam’s authority over the next 2 weeks. The writers of Hebrews say it so well: 13:17-18 “Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you. Pray for us (leaders). We are sure that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way.” Pam you are a true blessing to all of us!

June 7

A lot to pray for today!

1. Guatemala and US Teams - As a team, unity, health, protection, energy, effective ministry, God’s power and guidance, safety, blessings!

2. Packing Party tomorrow at the Berry’s – Pray that team unity builds and that things go smoothly as all items are successfully packed for our departures.

3. Please continuing praying for our spiritual preparation - Jesus’ last words to His disciples before His death was the Great Commission – Matthew 28:18-20 “18Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

4. Also please pray that we will remember that sharing the Gospel is knowing that while it is our responsibility to share the Gospel we do not own the outcome. Whether someone accepts Jesus as their lord and savior is between them and God – all we can do is plant the seed. John 4:13-15 “Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life." The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water so that I won't get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water." The woman did not immediately understand what Jesus was saying – Jesus allowed her to ask questions and out the pieces together for herself. Sharing the Gospel will not always have immediate results so don’t get discouraged if not everyone listens to you – just remember that we are do what God commands us to do and leave the results up to Him!

June 5

From the Prayer Calendar: Marina Tarabicos - Pray that God will multiply her time and that the essential projects get completed before we leave. Keep his focus on the things that are eternal. Knowing that her true treasures are stored in heaven. Guard her heart and spirit. Matt.6:33 “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

Chapters 5, 6 and 7 are the Sermon on the Mount. In this section of chapter 6, Jesus was teaching about worry. The first word of this verse jumps out immediately – “but” – meaning there is a contrast. “But seek first his kingdom” first ahead of what? Verse 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear.” Jesus was saying God knows what you need and promises to take care of what you need.

Verse 27 “Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” Jesus was reminding them that worrying does not help but only hurts. If we are consumed by worry we cannot effectively serve. Pray today and this week prior to departing that God will help you to leave your worries and troubles behind so we can truly focus on serving the people of Guatemala. Philippians 4:6 – 7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

I'll Pray for You

How often do we tell someone “I’ll pray for you” and then go about our day and forget to pray?  Or when we pray, how much of our prayer time is focused on our own needs and desires instead of on others?  I’ve become aware of that in my life recently.  I pray for guidance through the day, for God to provide work for me, for my family to be safe and well, and when I remember, I pray for my friends who are sick.  But most of my prayer time is focused on myself.

This morning as I prayed, I intentionally didn’t pray for myself as an individual.  There’s nothing wrong with doing that, but I felt the need to be outwardly focused in my prayer.  I prayed that God would prepare our group as we go to Guatemala, and asked that God would use us and speak through us.  I prayed for the church members in the villages that we will visit, that God would give them boldness to stand for Christ and to invite their unsaved friends to the clinics.  I prayed that those that come will see Jesus for who he is, and they will accept him as their savior.  I prayed that we will be bold in sharing Christ here at home and not just in Guatemala.  I prayed for my nephew who once professed faith in Christ but now says he doesn’t believe that God exists.  I prayed for my sons and their girlfriends, that they will walk with God and grow in their relationship with Jesus.

I admire those friends who say they will pray for me and I know they will actually do it.  I want to be that kind of prayer warrior.  If I trust God to take care of me, I can spend less time praying for my needs and focus on the needs of my friends and neighbors.  I’m making a new commitment to pray for you.

Preparing my Heart and Mind

As I was thinking about our approaching departure to Guatemala, this story that I wrote back in March came to mind.  It's called Powdered Milk (click on the title).  I hope you enjoy it!

June 4

Happy Saturday! Next Saturday our first group leaves!

From the Prayer Calendar: Caroline Schuler - Pray for God’s love be shown to Caroline and through her on the trip. “The Lord watches over you, the Lord is your shade at your right hand” (Psalm 121:5).

What a great word picture the author provides us – “the Lord is your shade.” There are really two meanings here: shade as in protector which was frequently used as a highly expressive symbol of protection or refuge especially in the hot, arid middle east. And shade as in shadow just as everywhere we go our shadow goes with us, so too God "shadows" us at all times and in all circumstances. Pray today that you will be so aware of God’s shadow and his shade – a great illustration especially given the heat we have been experiencing here in the south! Guatemala may actually be a break from the heat!

Have a great night and morning of worship!

June 3

Wow it is approaching fast! 8 days!

From the Prayer Calendar: Jan Schuler - Pray for peace, wisdom and understanding. May God’s love be a banner over Jan. Romans 8:6 “The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.” As Pam has been writing to us “Pray without ceasing” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17. This is really the only way to be “governed by the Spirit” which leads to peace; pray – Spirit – peace; no pray – flesh – death. Seems easy…but then why do we struggle to pray even for 30 minutes in the morning let alone without ceasing? I think it is a matter of habit.

I know some of you attended the Fellowship School Eternity Banquet in 2009 – the guest speaker was Jerry Jenkins. Jerry has written many biographies including books on Brett Butler, Nolan Ryan, and Orel Hershiser. You may remember one story Jerry told at the banquet regarding his work with Billy Graham on his memoirs. Jerry’s story – a conversation between he and Billy – went something like this:

Jerry: “Do you ever miss a day of praying?”

Billy: “What do you mean.”

Jerry: “I mean does a day ever go by and you missed your quiet time with the Lord?”

Billy: “No, I talk with God all day, everyday – I am talking with Him right now as I am talking with you.”

This really hit me hard – that is probably why Billy Graham is Billy Graham – he actually prays without ceasing and as a result he has made a bigger impact on the world than maybe anyone other individual. Imagine how different our lives would be if we prayed without ceasing. I don’t know if any of us would be a Billy Graham but we would certainly be different. Pray – Spirit – Peace; a whole different meaning to PSP.

Have a great night!

June 2

From the prayer calendar: Jordan Merideth - God’s presence, guidance, blessing and peace. Lord, lead Jordan daily to the people, places and positions to be most effective in proclaiming the Gospel. Isaiah 30:21 “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.””

This verse in Isaiah was basically a promise to the people of Jerusalem that when they veer off course God would correct their path. God provides us the same promise. Would it be cool if we actually audibly heard God’s voice when we veered off course - “Ed, get back on the right path!” While we don’t hear God audibly there is absolutely no question that He talks to us. The question is are we listening? Do we spend a considerable of amount of time in prayer and being quiet that we can be positioned to hear Him? Are we listening to the Holy Spirit speak to us or are we moving too fast that we only “hear” the flesh? It reminds me of the Simon and Garfunkel song “Feelin’ Groovy” – you know the lyrics – “So down, you move too fast.” I realized this week how attached I am to media – either I am at my computer or if not then I have my Blackberry with me. Which by itself is not bad but I find that moments I could be listening to the Holy Spirit I am reading emails, looking up something online or checking my calendar. I have made myself a promise to be online less and listen more. How about you – do you need to slow down?

June 1

From the Prayer Calendar: The clinics (San Marcos, San Sebastian & Amatitlan) - Pray for God’s hand of mercy on the people. Pray that His will be done on earth as in heaven. Believe that the same power that raised Christ Jesus from the dead is in us, and that His love will speak through us to the people (Romans 8:11).

The reason for our trip! We need lots of prayer today! Pray that God is preparing hearts of those people whose paths we will cross. Pray that as the local team and local churches spread the word of our upcoming visits that their hearts will be touched and moved to come to the clinics. The MMM mission statement is “Using medicines to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ.” This is why we are going to Guatemala!

I would ask that we pray as we prepare for the Gospel stations. I know that many of us are outside our comfort zones in sharing the Gospel. That is why it is so important that we pray more and more as our trip gets closer and that we just trust that God will speak through us. Based on what I have heard from so many that have done mission trips the Holy Spirit just takes over as we share the Good News. Acts 1:8 “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." - San Marcos, San Sebastian & Amatitlan!

Pray sometime this evening or in the morning – spend a little extra time and pray for those you will meet in these villages!