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

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

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

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

Day 2: Prayer & Family.

**My apologies fro posting this morning rather than last night. Our internet is a bit spotty. :)

Pastor Rudolfo, his wife, Magda, and Margarita

The team! The end to our day of Sport Ministry.

Some of our cheerleaders! Lisa, Sandy, and Sherry.

Kenny and Stacy playing basketball with Carolina and Daniella (two children from the Managua  missionary family). 

What a blessed day! If you are praying for us, feel confident in the power of your prayers. They were definitely answered on day one in San Marcos.

We started the day off with a devotion from Zach Sizemore. He did a wonderful job encouraging us to leave our worries from home behind and give ourselves fully to God's plans for us here; to be present in the moment. This is a lesson I think we could apply during our time in San Marcos and when we return home. What can God do with worry and fear?

After our breakfast and devotional, the elders from Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh arrived. They stepped off the bus with arms wide open. Hugs, kisses, laughter, and genuine fellowship followed soon after. It is truly amazing to experience the instant connection and deep love that exists between believers. In spite of language, distance, and culture, we all love one another because we were first loved. After our initial meet and greet, Juan explained to the group that each member of Iglesia Bautista present had been praying specifically for a member of our team. This part of our morning was too amazing for words (but I will try...). Each member of Iglesia Bautista stood and explained some information about themselves and their role in the church. After that they asked the person they had been praying for all this time to come up and join them. Hugs followed (at times a couple of tears) and we had an opportunity to express our gratitude and excitement for the days to come. To put this into some type of perspective, I imagine this might be similar to a random stranger stopping you on the street and saying, "(insert your name), I have been praying for you every day for months. God bless you." It was one of my favorite parts of the day and a true testimony to the power of faithful prayer. So as they have been intentionally, specifically, and faithfully praying for each of us, our team, and our church, I feel compelled to ask--could our church pray for them, also? Their names may not match a face for those reading, but God knows and he honors our efforts. The names of the elders of Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh:

Anna Maria, Candida, Margarita, Maria, Magda, Rena, Auto, Marcos, Gustavo, Francisco, Pastor Rudolfo, and Daniel. 

After this high point in our morning... things just got better. We were able to hear from a missionary family just recently called to the Managua area. Their story was inspiring, filled with an ever present faith in God's plan.  They spoke about the Greek meaning behind the city named Managua. Mana is the bread of heaven. Agua is the water of life. They felt God calling them to bring the bread of heaven and the water of life to the Managua area. So, they did and are eager to serve God however he asks. 

Following an amazing morning, we had an ethnic meal for lunch. The main course consisted of a burger (choice of toppings) and a side of fries. I think Kenny was okay with that. :) We were fed and ready for a day of sport ministry! We arrived at the church location around 2 pm. There was a multipurpose court available for use. About 60 youth and young adults showed up to play soccer and basketball. When it was time for basketball, it was decided that there should be an "American team" vs. a team from Iglesia Bautista. The Houser duo was unstoppable with the give and go move, Zach Sizemore was making his presence known on the boards, and Kenny and Juan were professional ball handlers. We aren't sure who won, but we had a blast! 

As the sport portion of the event was winding down, Zach felt led to share his testimony. All the kids (teens) in attendance gathered around Zach and his translator, Tony. Zach shared his heart, his past, and how he was saved by Jesus Christ. His story was so compelling and everyone who heard was undoubtedly blessed. We're so thankful for Zach; for his courage and strength in sharing his story.

One more task left to be done before we could leave. The church grounds were blessed by Pastor Mark Woods and all members of the church that will be leading the Bible school tomorrow (LCBC mission team and Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh).

Then it was time to head home. Dinner and a time of reflection ended our busy, blessed day.  We are so thankful for your prayers and loving thoughts. Know that as you are praying at home, God is creating a "family of families" that is not restricted to Lubeck, West Virginia. We have a new family to add from San Marcos, Nicaragua.

God bless and always with love.

1 Corinthians 13:13

Hola, San Marcos!

Hola, from San Marcos, Nicaragua! We made it! After two flights and a five hour lay-over in Houston, we touched down in Managua around 11:30 pm this evening. We were welcomed with hugs from members of Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh (including Pastor Rudolfo). After our luggage was loaded, we enjoyed a relaxing ride to our new home for the week--Skylark Centre. We are tired but excited about what the rest of this week will bring! 

And... we have a huge praise already! Our driver, Agusto, was saved this evening! He was on his way to pick us up, and Pastor Rudolfo was able to witness to him along the way. By the time he reached the airport, he accepted Jesus into his life. God is good. :) Please be in prayer for Agusto and the new journey he has just begun. 

This is just a short post for now. Tomorrow will come early with breakfast at 8 am and Zach Sizemore leading our morning devotion right after. We'll have a hectic schedule and more updates to come. We love you all and thank you for your prayer and support as we begin this mission in San Marcos, Nicaragua. 

In His love. 



1 Corinthians 13:13

Give before you receive.

Vera Cruz, Nicaragua 2009

I was reading through some of my older posts from our last mission trip. I found this quote:

Today I sat in church and listened to the pastor preach about giving. "You must give before you can expect to receive," he says. He encouraged and instructed everyone to give. He used a story of his own experience. A missionary within the church was trying to raise support to "go out and proclaim the word." When the "support" came in, he realized he could not live off the support provided by the church. He was shocked and upset. The pastor said again, "you must give before you can expect to receive. Too often we only expect to receive and forget that we must also give."

With this in mind, I have something I hope to give in preparation for our mission trip in February to San Marcos, Nicaragua.

In my missional journeys I try to avoid simply asking for donations. If I ask you to sacrifice for a mission, I must also show sacrifice (other than the trip, itself). So...

I am now taking orders for crocheted scarves; prayer scarves. I am accepting donations, only (only give whatever He puts on your heart--whether that amount be $1 or $100). As I make these scarves, I will pray over them and for whomever might wear them. Once the scarf is made, you will have two options:

1) you can keep the scarf as your own or give it as a gift to a friend;

2) you can donate the scarf back to the Latrobe Street Mission in Parkersburg, WV (If option 2 is chosen, I will send you a picture of the donated scarf). 

Latrobe Street Mission is a locally funded mission. They are only supported by individuals (like you), community churches, and local organizations. They currently house 60-65 homeless individuals (including children) from the Parkersburg area, provide warm meals for dinner and breakfast in the morning, and give each person that walks through their doors hope and love because of their unyielding faith (1 Corinthians 13:13). For more information on Latrobe St Mission, you can click on the link above. 

Instructions for Placing Scarf Orders:

*To order: please email me (crislip4@gmail.com), reply to this post, or send a private message to me on facebook. 

*Include: Color preference (if one), choice of Option 1 or 2 (see above), delivery preference, any additional prayer requests.

*Questions: also, email (crislip4@gmail.com), reply to this post, or send a private message to me on facebook.

Our mission trip to Nicaragua is scheduled for departure on FEBRUARY 15, 2013. So, if you are so kind to place an order to help one (or two) missions, please do so as soon as possible. I hope to be working non-stop until then. :)

Thank you so much, in advance! I know many of you are constant supporters of missions and are missionaries, yourselves. Bless you, always. Thank you, thank you, thank you. And, as mentioned in my previous post, if you find the time or ability to pray (prepare) & send well-wishes for our trip in February it would be much appreciated. 

Always in Love, 

1 Corinthians 13:13

"Work is love made visible." Kahlil Gibran

First completed scarf >>>

Thank you for your orders and donations! :)