Bittersweet

The past two months were certainly bittersweet.  I again had the great opportunity to return to Chaviña to work among the people there during June and July.  Regardless of this unbelievable opportunity to continue to work with the people whom I have poured the most time into, it was still rather difficult to be there.  As many of you already know, August 28th I am permanently returning to the States to marry the most beautiful woman in the world, Mandy Bush.  God certainly taught me patience through His unbelievable grace during these last 2 months stretching me beyond what I thought was my limit.

Still, God is so faithful to accomplish His will through us.  Especially when we are weak.  In our weakness that is the moment when we must turn to Him the most.  One of the main problems in our lives and in missions is that we believe we are too strong on our own.  All I have to ask is, "how much time do you spend in prayer."  God taught me during these months to bring everything before Him, relying on Him for every single thing.

During these months God truly worked among us and the people.  In our work in Chaviña we are still in the relationship phase, building a presence among the people.  So, it was extremely important for us during these months to establish a presence.

One man specifically that we had a great opportunity to continue to share the gospel and build a relationship was with René, an older, influential man in the village.  Numerous occasions we were invited over to his house to enjoy a meal or simply talk.  Also, we were able to help him some in his fields, harvesting corn.

Another opportunity that came up during July through a relationship that I had formed during June was that I was asked to play on a tournament soccer team in the village.  The soccer tournament is a big deal in the village and all the men play.  It turned out to be extremely beneficial to play.  I was able to build numerous relationships with the men as well as others who we may not have had the opportunity to talk, but now at least know who we are.  Also, it was an enormous way to gain respect from the men.  And by the way, I scored 4 goals!  Amusing to watch the transition from football to futbol.

In the Bible studies we went through the book of Matthew with the few interested.  We are still seeing growth among those that are coming, it's just really difficult when we are not able to be with them permanently.

Prayer requests:

• René that God might open his heart to the gospel
• Julia and Katy, who continue to meet with us
• That we could place someone in Chaviña long term
• That God might start a church 
• For Mandy and I as we are about to get married on Dec. 17th

Thank you for your unbelievable support during this past year.  Without you this would have been impossible.