Saturday, February 23, 2013

Day 8: The last goodbye...










What a wonderful day in Nicaragua! Today was our "free day" which was to consist of some shopping, sightseeing, and a fair-well church service in the evening. 

Kathryn started us off with the morning devotional. She gave her own testimony and explained how God had put her on this trip for a purpose. Her close connections with the people here, shared experiences, and the opportunity to encourage one another seemed like such an act of God in her life. She explained she was so grateful for the opportunity to be here and to experience what He has in store for her. She did a wonderful job and we are so blessed to have Kathryn with us in Nicaragua. :)

After breakfast, we set out for the market in Managua, Nicaragua. We shopped for a couple of hours. Some walked away with some beautiful finds including nice woodwork and handmade crafts to remember our time here. My good friend, Demo, was able to meet us while we were at the market. I was so excited to see him! It has been too long, my friend. :) After shopping, our friends--the missionary family Bonilla-Giovanetti--joined us for the day's events. We were so happy so see them again! 

We left the market and Juan took us to Granada--one of the oldest cities in Central American, founded in the late 1500's. In Granada, we took a boat tour of Lake Managua (or Lake Nicaragua). The tour was absolutely beautiful! We were informed that there are about 365 private islands in Lake Managua. There is one for sale if anyone is interested--$350,000 to own your own island. :) After the boat ride, we went to the town square in the center of Granada. It was full of life with vendors, food, music, and historical architecture in all directions. 

We saw Granada from a different viewpoint when we went to a scenic overlook across a smaller lagoon. This was our las stop with the Bonilla-Giovanetti family. We hugged, took pictures, exchanged gratitude and blessings before parting ways for the last time (this trip). They were so warm, inviting us all back whenever we liked. They expressed their hope for our groups to meet again and work in ministry together. We hope and pray for the same. We miss miss this beautiful family until that time comes.

On our way back to Skylark for a quick break, we stopped to see the school we helped paint. The hard work of the families and students of San Marcos, Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh, and our team shined through in the finished product. The school looked so fresh and new! We truly enjoyed our time working here, and we hope the labor we spent will be a blessing to the teachers, the students and their families. 

After the shopping and touring, we attended one last church service of Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh. This service was intended to be a fair-well service before we head back to the United States. I think I can speak for the entire team when I say--we were so extremely humbled and loved during this service. Their expression of gratitude and genuine love was overwhelming. They gave us certificates commemorating the trip. They gave us each two gifts to take home. Some church members that we became especially close with gave us additional gifts (bracelets, letters, keychains, bookmarks, etc.). At one point, all three of our translators were in the front of the church leading worship. Erika and Tony were singing, and Leyner was doing what he does best--playing the keyboard. After worship and the gift-giving, we began the long (sorrowful) process of saying goodbye. There weren't many dry eyes to be found. It seemed more evident then than ever before--we truly have become one family. Lubeck Community Baptist Church, Calvary Baptist Church, and Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh have joined together as one family of many families. We mare so many miles apart, but our love in Christ will always bind us together. 

We are so grateful for you all... following at home, praying, sending well wishes as each day passed. You have been such a huge contribution to this journey. Each moment, each life saved, each relationship, and each hug was wrapped carefully in your prayer. We cannot express enough gratitude for your constant involvement and love, both before and throughout this week. 

Always in His love,



1 Corinthians 13:13

Thursday, February 21, 2013

Day 7: John 3:30

Rhonda and Sandy dancing with some of the ladies from the nursing home. 
Children from Iglesia Bautista singing at the nursing home.

Rhonda taking care of her new friend.

Sherry spending time with some of the children from Iglesia Bautista.


Roger and Helbert after Helbert's solo performance.

Lisa and I (Meredith) mingling with the residents of the nursing home.

Mark doing some "mingling" of his own. :)

Stacy doing what she does best--playing with the kids!


Today, Kenny was the leader of our morning devotional. He went into his "God story," talking about challenges and victories, alike. He did an amazing job and truly touched our hearts with his words. He emphasized that he is a simple man and his favorite verse is a simple one-- "He must become greater; I must become less," John 3:30. As Kenny explained his favorite verse, it was realized that Mark Houser was wearing a shirt that had "John 3:30" written on the front. Just after that, it was realized that the bracelets we would be giving out at the Narcotics Anonymous meeting carried a message that reflected John 3:30, as well. So, the (obvious) theme for today was John 3:30. 

This morning we had to split up our team to accomplish everything on the day's agenda. The men went back to the school to finish painting, while the women visited a local nursing home. At the nursing home we opened up with a "mini" church service. A group of children from Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh sang a beautiful song for us, and one child, Helbert, sang a solo. Pastor Mark Wood delivered a short sermon focusing on our walk with God and the wisdom that we gain from that journey. He encouraged the men and women at the nursing home to continue their walk, clinging to God's love and staying in the Word. After the message, Marcos (the Worship Leader) asked us to find one person from the nursing home to pray for. We scattered, found a new friend, and began praying for them. This really was a beautiful moment, and it was evident that the residents of the nursing home were very grateful for the prayer and the love we hoped to convey. Next, it was time for snacks and makeovers! The ladies were treated as if they were in a day spa. Their hair was brushed and fixed with beautiful pins; their nails were painted an array of different colors; and their make-up was absolutely beautiful when the volunteers were finished applying the shadows and lipstick. The men may have felt left out; however when we asked if they wanted their nails painted or make-up applied, they politely declined. :) After everyone was looking beautiful the dancing began! Rhonda and Sandy were busting a move on the dance floor with a few of the residents. They said they felt young again. :)

Later in the afternoon, the men returned to the school to finish painting. Dinner followed with the usual recap on the day and friendly conversation. After dinner we had a meeting at Margarita's home with the church leaders of Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh. We spent time expressing our genuine gratitude to Iglesia Bautista for all of their preparation, work, and prayers over these past several months (and this week). They returned the sentiments. At the end of the meeting, Pastor Rudolfo showed us the "blueprints" (or plans) for their future church building. It will be two floors when finished, complete with classrooms and a worship area. They ask for our prayers that they will be able to fund the project and reach more people in San Marcos for God.

(Side note: As we pulled up to Margarita's home for the meeting, Lisa and I [Meredith] saw the Matron from our home visit on Tuesday walking down the street with assistance from her walker and her daughter. This seemed like a miracle to us! Just a couple of days earlier she said she could not walk. She said walking was not possible because she was in so much pain from her heartache and poor hips. To see her walking was answered prayer. We hope to visit her tomorrow, encourage her, and invite her to evening worship. He is good :) )

We left from the meeting around 7:30 and went to "The Hope and Faith Group," also referred to as Narcotics Anonymous. This was such a humbling and wonderful experience. We were able to participate in an "open meeting" with Narcotics Anonymous. They explained that they use a 12-step program (similar to what we would use in the US). They also have 35 spiritual principles that they reference through their recovery process. Not only do they treat current addicts, but they also provide prevention education for children and families that may be susceptible to drug or alcohol addiction. The meeting began with a message of welcome and a wonderful "drama" put on by the Worship Team of Iglesia Bautista. Following the drama, individuals came up to share their testimony. From our team Kenny, Zach, Meredith, and Mark spoke to the members in attendance. It is our prayer that everyone there was blessed, because we know we were. We left feeling inspired and promising prayers for these men and the struggles that lie ahead. They claimed that they will struggle with addiction all their lives. However, they said with God's strength, they will overcome these struggles day by day, victory by victory. We left bracelets carrying the John 3:30 message for each member in attendance. Everyone seemed so grateful for the bracelets, the message, and for our visit. The director of the meeting said he wanted to thank us for our visit and our message of Christ because it gave them hope and strength to continue in their journey. God is good.

As our day winds down, we think of our family and friends back home. As always, your thoughts and prayers are so powerful. We thank you for your support as we finish out the last day of this mission. God bless! 

Always in His love,


1 Corinthians 13:13


Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Day 6: A few more freckles...

Kathryn Hard at work! 
Pastor Mark Wood painting a classroom.

Lisa, the professional "gate" painter!

Sandy with a good friend who also gave her testimony this evening.

Sandy giving her testimony during the service tonight at Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh.

Kenny and his good friend Salvador. They are twins!

Roger with Salvador and Salvador's lovely daughter.

Juan with his mother at the church service this evening. :)


Sandy started us off today with a wonderful devotional time after breakfast. She brought in a lot of personal elements from her own life. She focused on the strength we receive from God to live through our challenges and hardships. It was a wonderful start to our day, and we are so thankful to have Sandy as a part of our team in Nicaragua.

Around 7:45 we left for a (different) local elementary school in San Marcos. This school did not ask for school supplies, but a new paint job, instead. We strapped on our gloves, applied sun screen, and went to work early this morning. Some of us were sanding down the walls and iron bars, others were painting the classrooms, and still others were painting the gates and window bars outside. It was perfectly organized chaos. The only challenge was not getting paint on your skin. This paint is oil-based and will only come off if paint thinner is used as a cleaner. Some of us did not discover missed spots of paint on our legs and arms until we returned to Skylark. It looks like we'll return home with "a few more freckles..." :) 

After our work at the school was finished for the day, we had some time to freshen up and eat dinner before heading back to Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh for an evening service. During the service, Sandy decided she would give her testimony to the congregation. Her words were incredibly moving, and she did an amazing job speaking in front of so many people. Again, we are so proud of Sandy and so happy she is here with us in Nicaragua! 

After Sandy's testimony, Pastor Mark Wood took the pulpit to deliver the message. At the beginning of his sermon, he informed us all that his home church, Calvary Baptist Church, was praying for the church service at the very same moment. Again, I say to "the Church"--your pastor represented God well tonight and your prayers were heard louder than you know. You will all be blessed to know your prayer helped at least 12 individuals come forward to be saved or to rededicate their lives to Jesus Christ. God is so good. They came in response to your faithful prayer, God's love, and the delivered message through Pastor Mark. Tonight he elaborated on verses from Mark 10:17-22. This illustrates the story of the man that was "good." He asked Jesus, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?" (v.17b). Jesus spoke with him but soon found that the man was not willing to give up everything for Jesus... only some things. Pastor Mark encouraged us all to give up those things that we rely on; those things that come between us and God. He petitioned us to look within ourselves and find anything that we might worship or put before God, instead of only worshiping the one true God. His message was captivating, full of energy, and propelled by your prayer. Again, never doubt your prayer is heard and fully answered. 

Before the night could end, our interpreter, Erika, asked to speak once more. She opened her heart and gave her testimony for this week. She explained (once again) she has not been to church or looked to God in four years. She said she came into this week thinking she would just be translating for a team of Americans. However, as the week progressed, she felt God put her in this place and position for a reason. Tears began to flow as she saw her daughter and her cousin (recently rededicated to Christ, as well) staring back at her from the congregation. She explained that being around the mission team, the church (Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh), and in God's presence has allowed her to come to terms with her life and to walk with Him once again. Praises all around. His plan is always perfect. 

Every night as I recap on the day, I keep wondering, "How can this be so perfectly orchestrated? This can't be real." But I am here to tell you--it is so real. And it is perfectly orchestrated by a perfect God who loves us more than we'll ever understand. As we know, He is always working in the favor of those who love him (Romans 8:28). 

We love you all. I will say it again--thank you, thank you for your prayers. They are felt every day. 

Always in His love,



1 Corinthians 13:13

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Day 5: Prayer & Pastors

Pastor Mark Wood praying for pastors in attendance at the convention.

Anna Maria, Johana's Father, Johana, and Erika (our translator).

Pastor Juan translating for Pastor Mark at the pastors' convention.

The 7-8 year old class at Bible School. Teachers: Sandy, Lisa, Kathryn, and Eyner (our translator).

 
Dancing at Bible School! :)
Bible School. Students hard at work.

The radio station where Juan, Pastor Mark Wood, Roger, and Zach spoke on-air.

Lisa and I on a home visit with Anna Maria's close friends and neighbors.

Roger, Kenny, and Zach getting the party started at Bible School with some Limbo! 




Today, many of us stepped outside of our comfort zone and into growth. Before the rest of the team woke up (around 6 am) , Zach, Mark Wood, Roger, and Juan went to a local radio station. Mark Wood gave a mini-sermon on air, Roger said a few words about our team and mission, and Zach closed in prayer. Juan was the best translator of all time. :)

Once the boys returned to Skylark (around 7:30 am), we all started our morning with a devotional led by Rhonda. She did a great job of resetting our priorities for the day. She posed the question, "what causes you to feel compassion?" We all took time to consider what allows us or motivates us to show compassion. The answers were all very sincere; from the heart. She went on to explain that Paul had compassion for the church in Thessalonica, and it is evident in the letters he wrote to them. So, she encouraged us to look through the lens of compassion as we ventured into the day's events. 

After breakfast and devotional, our team split into two groups. One group (Rhonda, Kathryn, Sandy, Lisa, and me / Meredith) conducted in-home visits, while the second group (Zach, Kenny, Sherry, Stacy, and Roger) went with Pastor Mark, Pastor Mark Wood, and Juan to the Pastor's Training Convention. The in-home visits were meant to be evangelical in nature. The families we were visiting had either a) left the church or b) had never been to church. Lisa and I (Meredith) were traveling together visiting homes alongside our translator, Tony. Our fist home visit gave us a true sense of humility, empathy, and compassion. We visited a mother who had just lost her son 8 days ago. As she explained her story (that we were hearing for the first time), she pointed to his pictures. All three of us (Lisa, Tony, and me) were invited to look at his picture on the wall behind us. Tony's facial expression changed instantly when he saw the picture. He explained to us he played baseball with this man; they were very good teammates and friends. This was the first time Tony had heard of his passing. Ignoring his sorrow, Tony informed Lisa and me that this must be God's plan. He said (to summarize), "I always go with missionaries to visit families, schools, homes... but I am never the one being used. I feel God has put me here for this purpose today." The mother was experiencing extreme sorrow over the loss of her son (45-50 years of age at his passing). With Tony's words of encouragement and a supportive family she seemed to have renewed faith as we prayed to close our intimate meeting. Later, one of the matron's daughters came to the Bible School. She explained that the visit was encouraging for her mother and asked that we continue prayers for her and her family. We assured her we would be honored to do so.

The second team conducting in-home visits (Rhonda, Sandy, and Kathryn) visited a cousin of their translator, Erika. Her name is Johana. Erika had not been back to church in four years and Johana had abstained for two. Erika recently renewed her faith and hoped to encourage her cousin to do the same. Kathryn shared her personal testimony about her walk with God, motherhood, the trials of her life, and the hope that God offers. After the visit, witness, encouragement, and prayer, the ladies left not knowing if their message was truly heard. They received their answer when Johana arrived for Bible School that afternoon. God is so good. :) 

While we were visiting families, the rest of the team was helping with the pastoral convention. The event was organized and led by Pastor Rudolfo. There was a lot of praise and worship throughout the entire morning. After an initial session of worship, Pastor Mark Wood took time to preach on trusting Him. He referenced Proverbs 3:3-6 speaking on putting your absolute trust in God's great plan. This seems like such an essential lesson to understand and take to heart whether it's meant for a group of pastor's or a congregation. It is such a powerful message. Pastor Mark Houser spoke later on. His message was focused on the priorities of a pastor. He urged the pastors not to put their ministry above their own health and well-being of their family. He explained that the ministry and the call on their life is important, but you cannot serve a congregation if you are not well. You cannot be a man of God if you cannot first take care of your family. After these messages were delivered, Pastor Rudolfo asked "both Marks" to lay their hands on all those in attendance and pray for each individually. We walked in at this point and, I can attest, this was such an emotional moment for the pastors (including "the Marks"). You can see this prayer session taking place in some of the pictures above. At the end of the convention, one pastor explained he wanted "the Marks" and Juan to return at least twice a year for more Pastor Conventions.

Toward the end of the pastoral convention, Stacy, Zach, Roger, and Kenny returned to the school we visited yesterday. They handed out the packages of school supplies we prepared to the students. The students were so excited to get their supplies! It was more like Christmas in February. :) Our team had a great time visiting and playing one more time with the children of this San Marcos elementary school. 

That afternoon we returned to the Bible School for one last day of lessons, playing, crafts, and singing. It became more emotional as time passed. As the end of school was approaching hugs became more important. Bracelets were exchanged, pictures were taken, information exchanged, and so on. There were many memorable moments that took place here. One, in particular, included Stacy. She thought it would be a great idea to bring "bouncy balloons" for the kids. There was only one problem--40 balloons for 80 children. The math didn't add up. She tried to keep it a secret by giving one balloon to a child and saying, "keep this quiet, I don't have enough." So the child turned around, screamed, "balloon!!" in Spanish, and Stacy experienced her first "mob attack." ha! Luckily our good friends Candida and Margarita were close by and came to her rescue. :) 

Before the Bible School could end, the members of our team danced for the kids. We sang songs, played games, and handed out awards for the best students of the Bible School. Roger, Kenny, and Zach started a Limbo line and the head of the Bible School, Reyna, called Roger "the special one." He is so special to us all. :) Although the Bible School is over, we are not so sad just yet. For one, six students asked Jesus into their hearts at the end of the lessons today (Praise!). Secondly, we know we will see the children again tomorrow night for the 6:00 church service. We look forward to seeing their beautiful faces once more before we leave San Marcos. 

And what a day! So many moments coordinated by God. We could not be more grateful for His presence and overwhelming faithfulness in every moment. He has a plan, and He allows us to be a part of it. 

We love you all so much. As always, your prayers mean the world to us. He not only hears your prayers, but He answers them as we have seen so plainly here in San Marcos. 

Always in His love.


1 Corinthians 13:13

Monday, February 18, 2013

Day 4: Fun in the sun!

The team at the elementary school, San Marcos, Nicaragua.

Rhonda, Marcos, and Reyna attempt to communicate using translations booklets. This was entertaining. :)

Sherry Wood, Pastor Rudolfo, and Anna Maria praying for the classroom teacher who accepted Christ.

Mark speaking to a class about Jesus and His love for them. (Stacy, Lisa, and Tony accompany him)

Fun with the Parachute!

Up !

All smiles. :)


Beautiful Isabella (with Stacy in the background).

Roger teaching the children how to play.

More smiles. :)



Zach speaking to another class with the translation help of Pastor Juan.

Juan's mother, Juan, and Pastor Mark Wood at the Bible School today.

Sherry Wood taking pictures at the Bible School.

Rhonda with Rudolfo, Jr. (Pastor Rudolfo's son).
Kenny doing what he does best--playing with the children at Bible School. :)


I know this next statement may come as a surprise... but we had another amazing day. :) Today Lisa led our devotional following breakfast. She really brought up some amazing insights that started a great discussion--one so involved it would be hard to capture it all here. She mentioned her role as a mother and how much she values that part of her life. She elaborated by speaking about the role of women and men in the church. Discussion even stretched in the direction of young adults--their faith, their involvement in The Church, their views on life, etc. Like I said--interesting, deep, and an excellent start to our day, overall. 


Next on the agenda was a trip to a local elementary school to deliver school supplies. We dropped off the supplies in the main office where we met the principals and administrative staff of the school. They asked us to break up into three groups and visit all the classrooms. So, we did. :) We went to the classes and spoke to them about Jesus. In some classes we passed out bookmarks and cards with scripture. In some classes, we prayed with the students. We were asked by one class to take the students outside for an activity. The parachute worked so well. I've never seen so much joy in one place. The pictures, alone, can attest to this. On a more personal note, this was the most fun for me. I could play all day and be perfectly content. I think the rest of our team might agree. :) 

More importantly, Pastor Mark Wood was speaking to a particular class about Jesus Christ. After he spoke, he asked if anyone wanted to accept Jesus into their lives today. As the translator finished speaking the invitation in Spanish, they noticed the teacher of this class was in the back of the room sobbing. She came forward and accepted Christ into her life at that very moment. Sherry Wood, Pastor Rudolfo, and Anna Maria prayed with her and encouraged her in the beginning of her walk with Jesus Christ. Praises, once again! God is good. 

We said our goodbyes, left the school, and headed back to Skylark for lunch. After a short break, we were on our way back to Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh for another day of Bible School. Today, Pastor Mark Wood (3-6 yr old), Kathryn (7-8 yr old), and Meredith (9-14 yr old) taught the different age groups. The Bible School has been such a blessing to all of us. We had about 50 yesterday, and today we were told the count was closer to 70. More praises! The students enjoyed the Bible lessons, songs, arts and crafts, games, and a time of reflection before snacks. 

As we were cleaning and getting ready to head back to Skylark, we had an unexpected surprise--Juan brought his mother to the church so we could all meet her! What a wonderful woman. We expected nothing less. She raised a wonderful, Christ-seeking, compassionate man, and we all know the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. :)

Today was truly wonderful (just as each day before). I will repeat this often--we cannot thank you enough for your prayers! They are felt every day. If possible, we could use some specific prayer for Rhonda, Sandy, and Stacy. They have been a bit under the weather today, but are hopeful for a strong comeback tomorrow.

We love you all. God bless you and goodnight!



1 Corinthians 13:13

Sunday, February 17, 2013

Day 3: Bible School + > I

Stacy Houser (right) walking outside the make-shift shelter of the Bible School and Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh.

Zach Sizemore teaching at Bible School (assisted by Stacy and our translator, Tony).

Stacy and I (Meredith) learning some Spanish from our students! Hola :)

Lisa Cooper teaching the 7-8 year old group.

Kathryn helping Lisa. :)

Roger being awesome. 

Sandy and Kathryn packing school supplies with Erica (right) and other members of Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh.

Pastor Juan translating for Pastor Mark as he delivers the sermon at Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh. 



Another wonderful day in San Marcos, Nicarauga! We started day 3 with a devotional by Sherry. She did a beautiful job. She spoke about our relationship with God. She explained that if we do not seek Him continually (reading His Word, studying, praying.. etc.) it may seem as if He is very far away. Just like a child that's been left alone by a father, we panic, become fearful, and ask God to come close again to help us; to comfort us in hard times. She emphasized His love for us explaining that in those moments He is closer to us than ever before. 

After the devotional and breakfast, we set out for our first day of Bible School. We were separated according to age groups. Kenny instructed the younger children (3-6), Lisa instructed the 7-8 year olds, and Zach took the lead with the children 9-14 years old. The rest of us helped and assisted as they progressed through the lesson. The language barrier was only a slight challenge as we had fantastic translators and a wonderful group of children as our audience. Soon enough, the nervousness melted away and each group was well into the lessons, arts and crafts, and fun songs praising Jesus. The children seemed to have a wonderful time! Although, I'm not sure they had more fun than we did. :) Several of the students began teaching us Spanish! Stacy should be fluent by the time we make it home. As the festivities were winding down to a close, the leader of the Bible School, Rena, informed us that there were about 50 children in attendance today. Praises. :)

Following our lunch break, we packed school supplies (notebooks, pencils, crayons, etc.) for students at a local school in San Marcos. The work was easy because the workers were many! We had several members of Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh helping alongside our team to finish the job. We had so much time to spare before church (4:00 pm), we decided to get some ice cream in town.

The church service was phenomenal. Zach sang with the worship leader, Marcos, to start us off. He did a wonderful job! And Church (Lubeck Community Baptist Church and all those members of "The Church" reading this blog), you should be so proud of your pastor, Mark Houser. He delivered such a powerful sermon and testimony. He read from Acts 27:13-32. Here it tells the story of Paul's journey to Rome. This journey included storms, a damaged ship, relentless winds, and a loss of hope by the crew members. Pastor Mark compared this to our lives as we face our own storms, damage, and a loss of hope; but he reminded us, also, of our hope in Jesus Christ. He shared his testimony with the congregation in attendance. God was surely with him. Four individuals came forward acting as a catalyst for sincere prayer. Pastors and church members surrounded these men, held them, and prayed for them over and over again. It was a beautiful thing to see God working so passionately in the hearts of these men. Once again, words seem inadequate in painting a proper picture for our readers at home. And, again, know your prayers are so powerful and fully felt in San Marcos. After the four men returned to their seats, we prayed for Pastor Rudolfo and his lovely family as they begin their role as leaders in this new church. 

Two more testimonies were given before the end of the service. One by a woman redeemed and brought back to the church. Her story was one of love, forgiveness, and renewed hope for a future that "God has prepared for those love him" (1 Cor. 2:9b). The second testimony was by a young man (maybe 14 years old) who has been in and out of the hospital all his life. As he paced in front of the pulpit, he said the doctors told him he would not walk. As he shared his heart and passion to an entire congregation, he informed us that he has trouble communicating. He was told, years ago, he would not even finish elementary school. Now he can say he is in high school, received a college scholarship, and hopes to become a lawyer. What a testimony. God is good. 

I hope you are all blessed by these stories. How great is our God? :) We love you all and thank you, sincerely, for your prayers throughout this week. They are felt. I can't say it enough. 

Always in His love. 


1 Corinthians 13:13