On the way home to relieve our babysitters Jonny and Julie we had a rare view of the volcanoes in the south of the city. The one on the right is Popocatepetl and is still active. You can just about see them in the distance.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
A wedding!
After getting home from Mex-i-Kids we transformed ourselves for a totally different event. A couple of friends we met in Scotland 3 years ago had invited us to their wedding. It was a real honour for us as there were only about 20-30 guests. The groom is Scottish and the bride is Mexican. Most people there were able to speak very good English. There was even a guest who was Mexican but spent most of her youth in Britain. We had many opportunities to talk about our work and our motivation. Pray that seeds planted will be watered by others and grow into a wonderful harvest.
On the way home to relieve our babysitters Jonny and Julie we had a rare view of the volcanoes in the south of the city. The one on the right is Popocatepetl and is still active. You can just about see them in the distance.
On the way home to relieve our babysitters Jonny and Julie we had a rare view of the volcanoes in the south of the city. The one on the right is Popocatepetl and is still active. You can just about see them in the distance.
Dental Checks
Yesterday the dentists turned up to Mex-i-Kids and revised the teeth all of the kids who wanted it. It was amazing to see them at work and to see kids who were actually excited about getting their teeth checked.
A record was made for each kid and we took their addresses for follow-up.
There are at least 7 kids who need urgent follow-up. Most of the others had good teeth or it was considered that treatment could wait. The whole check-up was performed by a couple who go to the church and they performed it free of charge! The next stage is to visit the families of the kids who require treatment and check that their parents are happy to go ahead. It gives the team a great opportunity to meet the families and begin to share the gospel with them. Pray for them as that happens. Pray that good links would be established with these families. Some of the kids had no idea of their address of course. One family has just moved into the area. There are 3 kids and their parents hung around for a bit. Perhaps this could be another family that could be reached through the breakfast club outreach. Other kids had no idea of their birthday.
After getting permission from the parents we will get impressions of the kids' teeth and then they will go to the surgery for the treatment. The couple have offered their services free and to pay for everything except crowns which need to be ordered. I was worried when I heard we had to buy 8 crowns when I thought about how much mine cost a few weeks ago but was relieved to hear that the total cost to have all of these kids treated will be about £100 ($200)! What doesn't have a price tag is the eternal benefit as we make contact with the families and as word gets around that the church is concerned for these kids and is prepared to do something to help.
A record was made for each kid and we took their addresses for follow-up.
There are at least 7 kids who need urgent follow-up. Most of the others had good teeth or it was considered that treatment could wait. The whole check-up was performed by a couple who go to the church and they performed it free of charge! The next stage is to visit the families of the kids who require treatment and check that their parents are happy to go ahead. It gives the team a great opportunity to meet the families and begin to share the gospel with them. Pray for them as that happens. Pray that good links would be established with these families. Some of the kids had no idea of their address of course. One family has just moved into the area. There are 3 kids and their parents hung around for a bit. Perhaps this could be another family that could be reached through the breakfast club outreach. Other kids had no idea of their birthday.After getting permission from the parents we will get impressions of the kids' teeth and then they will go to the surgery for the treatment. The couple have offered their services free and to pay for everything except crowns which need to be ordered. I was worried when I heard we had to buy 8 crowns when I thought about how much mine cost a few weeks ago but was relieved to hear that the total cost to have all of these kids treated will be about £100 ($200)! What doesn't have a price tag is the eternal benefit as we make contact with the families and as word gets around that the church is concerned for these kids and is prepared to do something to help.
Making plans
It is truely incredible how God chooses to use us - but we are part of a body and we need all the other members.
Here Andrew is chatting with Steve. This week they were chatting with others about the possibility of buying land outside of the City and developing it. It would be a rehab centre with residential, sports, training, educational facilities and include a farm project.
Steve has more than sufficient experience and training in the area of farm development and we are excited and motivated by his enthusiasm and ideas.
At the moment of course this is just an idea. Pray that if this is in God's plans for the project that He will work out all of the details. Obviously there are financial, organisational and staffing implications etc. There is no doubt that such a facility would be an amazing addition to the work.
Here Andrew is chatting with Steve. This week they were chatting with others about the possibility of buying land outside of the City and developing it. It would be a rehab centre with residential, sports, training, educational facilities and include a farm project.
Steve has more than sufficient experience and training in the area of farm development and we are excited and motivated by his enthusiasm and ideas.
At the moment of course this is just an idea. Pray that if this is in God's plans for the project that He will work out all of the details. Obviously there are financial, organisational and staffing implications etc. There is no doubt that such a facility would be an amazing addition to the work.
Building for Eternity
Last Saturday evening the team came over to our home for something to eat. Jonny, Julie, Gary and Colleen also shared a little of their stories. The next day they headed to their accommodation beside the Drop-In centre in preparation for a week of extremely hard work!
Lots of scraping...
...cleaning the grease off the walls...
...scraping off the old plaster...
...putting on new plaster.
A partition to give privacy for the newly functioning guys shower and changing area.
The doors get painted with an anti-rust paint.
New doorway to shower area.
Breeze blocks are transferred up to the roof...
...where the water heater for the new shower is being installed.
Meanwhile it's business as normal. The girls are making wooden reindeer for hanging on Christmas trees...
...the guys are doing pictures...
...Fidel is discipling...
...and some are just looking for a bite to eat!
The old windows come out...
...the new frame goes in...
..with a new metal frontage for protection.
The completed water heater system.
As we mentioned last week there is usually at least one kids who is hugely impacted during the visit of a team. This week your prayers were once again answered. This family showed up on Monday asking if the Proyecto MEFI team would go and get their son/brother off the streets and take him to rehab. The team explained that they couldn't - the impetus had to come from the guy himself. It was agreed that if he came to the Drop-In Centre that day someone would take him to rehab. Normally we ask for some commitment at the Drop-In Centre before taking anyone to rehab. Sure enough the guy turned up and he is now in rehab. Pray that he will have the strength and determination to see it out. He is deeply affected by the drug. Pray for his family too now that contact has been established with them.
On Wednesday two guys asked with great sincerity for help to leave the streets. The guy below spoke with Andrew who explained that Proyecto MEFI could help him get off the streets but he had a greater need - the need for God's forgiveness. This kid was ready and with brokenness he sobbed his way to repentance. The other guy spoke with Paty and the outcome was the same. Two more names were added to the Lamb's book of life this week - praise God and please pray with fervency for their growth in faith and for their successful change from street life to renting, working etc. Another girl left the streets too though she hasn't trusted Christ yet. She is also being treated for a deep wound to her back which she got when she tripped going down into the manhole that was home for her last week.
Lots of scraping...
...cleaning the grease off the walls...
...scraping off the old plaster...
...putting on new plaster.
A partition to give privacy for the newly functioning guys shower and changing area.
The doors get painted with an anti-rust paint.
New doorway to shower area.
Breeze blocks are transferred up to the roof...
...where the water heater for the new shower is being installed.
Meanwhile it's business as normal. The girls are making wooden reindeer for hanging on Christmas trees...
...the guys are doing pictures...
...Fidel is discipling...
...and some are just looking for a bite to eat!
The old windows come out...
...the new frame goes in...
..with a new metal frontage for protection.
The completed water heater system.
As we mentioned last week there is usually at least one kids who is hugely impacted during the visit of a team. This week your prayers were once again answered. This family showed up on Monday asking if the Proyecto MEFI team would go and get their son/brother off the streets and take him to rehab. The team explained that they couldn't - the impetus had to come from the guy himself. It was agreed that if he came to the Drop-In Centre that day someone would take him to rehab. Normally we ask for some commitment at the Drop-In Centre before taking anyone to rehab. Sure enough the guy turned up and he is now in rehab. Pray that he will have the strength and determination to see it out. He is deeply affected by the drug. Pray for his family too now that contact has been established with them.
On Wednesday two guys asked with great sincerity for help to leave the streets. The guy below spoke with Andrew who explained that Proyecto MEFI could help him get off the streets but he had a greater need - the need for God's forgiveness. This kid was ready and with brokenness he sobbed his way to repentance. The other guy spoke with Paty and the outcome was the same. Two more names were added to the Lamb's book of life this week - praise God and please pray with fervency for their growth in faith and for their successful change from street life to renting, working etc. Another girl left the streets too though she hasn't trusted Christ yet. She is also being treated for a deep wound to her back which she got when she tripped going down into the manhole that was home for her last week.
How the kids live
The yellow tins are a sure sign of a group of street kids nearby. It's the most popular drug that is destroying so many of them. This is where most of the guys who have been going along to the Drop-In Centre live - underground in a large drain.
The pipes run through and around them are platforms where the kids sleep. Andrew went down in with Bill Evans from Men For Missions International. They were given a guided tour by one of the kids who lives there. This guy was not proud about his situation (as some can be) but gave a realistic look at life from a street kids perspective. It was a unique and enlightening tour.
Of course it's not just the kids who live down there - there are plenty of cockroaches and the guys also saw a small rat. The kids say there are lots of rats. You wonder why it's so difficult for the kids to leave that behind. It sure places a sense of urgency in our step and our prayers!
The pipes run through and around them are platforms where the kids sleep. Andrew went down in with Bill Evans from Men For Missions International. They were given a guided tour by one of the kids who lives there. This guy was not proud about his situation (as some can be) but gave a realistic look at life from a street kids perspective. It was a unique and enlightening tour.
Of course it's not just the kids who live down there - there are plenty of cockroaches and the guys also saw a small rat. The kids say there are lots of rats. You wonder why it's so difficult for the kids to leave that behind. It sure places a sense of urgency in our step and our prayers!
Day of the Dead
Last week we mentioned the approaching festival. This week some neighbours added a rather extravagant display outside their home. At night the skeletons' eyes flash! Just yesterday flowers were added to the creation. We passed a shop yesterday which sells ornate crosses mostly made out of wood. There were spiders webs draped across the crosses. How confused can it get?
The La Loma church is situated close to a huge cemetery area and it was noticeably busier today. We found out that many will be going to visit the tombs to 'talk' to their relatives. Pastor Miguel talked about those who prepare an altar and decorate it with flowers and food - the like of which they didn't do while the person was alive, offering the best of what this world has to give. Of course he went on to talk about the surpassing glory of Christ and the hope that we as Christians have of an eternal home prepared. We are passing strangers here - our home is heaven. Once again many responded to the appeal, this week committing to run with perseverance the race set before us. We are so happy to serve in La Loma and to be under Miguel's ministry.
Looking around today I had a smile on my face. It has been very cold this week (for those of us acclimatised to warmer temperatures) and everyone was wearing heavy winter coats which they didn't dare take off. Even the music group were all bundled up and Miguel preached in is full length wool overcoat! What makes it seem colder is that there are no heaters anywhere, there's a tile floor and metal seats...but there was plenty of fire in the pulpit!
The La Loma church is situated close to a huge cemetery area and it was noticeably busier today. We found out that many will be going to visit the tombs to 'talk' to their relatives. Pastor Miguel talked about those who prepare an altar and decorate it with flowers and food - the like of which they didn't do while the person was alive, offering the best of what this world has to give. Of course he went on to talk about the surpassing glory of Christ and the hope that we as Christians have of an eternal home prepared. We are passing strangers here - our home is heaven. Once again many responded to the appeal, this week committing to run with perseverance the race set before us. We are so happy to serve in La Loma and to be under Miguel's ministry.Looking around today I had a smile on my face. It has been very cold this week (for those of us acclimatised to warmer temperatures) and everyone was wearing heavy winter coats which they didn't dare take off. Even the music group were all bundled up and Miguel preached in is full length wool overcoat! What makes it seem colder is that there are no heaters anywhere, there's a tile floor and metal seats...but there was plenty of fire in the pulpit!
Back to the doctor's
On Monday morning Tabitha woke up with a couple of spots on her face. The rash quickly spread and the doctor was called for suggestions. Thankfully we weren't too shocked as we saw this before in May and back then it was identified as an allergic reaction. We started her on a course of anti-histamines but when it hadn't really calmed down by Wednesday we took a trip to see the doctor. She was put onto another medication and her skin is mostly cleared up today. We have another trip to the doctor tomorrow so he can check her over again.
We're not sure what she's allergic too. Perhaps something she has eaten or inhaled. Hopefully in time we'll get to the bottom of it. Thankfully the reaction did not affect her energy levels and she has stayed cheerful throughout (except that we're entering into a temper tantrum phase - a conflict in desire is a difficult thing for a toddler to accept!).
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Another breakfast club?
Andrew's first sermon in Spanish seemed to go well. Praise God for His enabling. He didn't get back home until about 9pm but he saw a fantastic part of the city and a great work that is going on there.
Soon he will have a meeting with the pastor but it looks like they are interested in starting their own breakfast club. Once again this is another extremely poor area of the city. The same church organised a Holiday Bible Club (VBS) and 300 kids turned up. They say that can't advertise as they can't cope with the numbers of kids who turn up! May we in some practical way be able to help them to open their arms wide to these precious kids and may none be turned away through lack of finances or human resources.
Our prayer card verse is that we go out into the highways and hedges and compel people to come in that God's house may be filled!
Mex-i-Kids
Would you pray for Itzel? She is one of the girls who attends the breakfast club and is about 11 years old. This week she shared with me that her 18 year old sister is waiting to hear if she has a tumour in her ovary. Itzel is concerned and obviously the family is too. She then went on to share that her father has another woman, has at least one child with her and is still with her (and her mother at the same time). He also regularly has fights with his brother who lives nearby. These seem to be severe. It's a privilege to be able to have kids like Itzel open up and to be able to listen and attempt to help. Itzel was contacted through the club and came to the Holiday Bible Club (VBS) in the summer. I'm not sure where she is spiritually but hope to be able to follow up with her more in the weeks ahead. Pray that through Itzel this family will come to know Christ.
My conversation with Itzel was interrupted by one of our helpers who was apologizing that she hasn't been able to help out as regularly. Her husband was out of work and they had been traveling all over the place trying to sell things to make ends meet. The latest news is that her husband has traveled up to the border with America and is hoping to get in there and get some work to support his family. He has left his wife and two young boys at home who are of course missing him desperately. It's a hard one. Work is hard to find here and can be extremely badly paid and yet this little family need their dad and husband. Pray that something will be worked out...and for God's grace in this situation.
The little street kids are still coming, always arriving early and helping out where they can and they have been bringing along some of their friends. We are amazed at how interested they are in the bible teaching. Obviously this is all new to them and they are drinking it in.
Next week one of the leaders is preparing a special seasonal lesson. Here in Mexico there is a traditional festival known as 'Day of the Dead' It will be celebrated on the 2nd November. Halloween is also becoming more and more popular and so in the same way that there are decorations all over the place for Independence day and Christmas eventually all the street stalls are currently selling plastic skulls, ghosts, skeletons and the like.
Traditionally people will build shrines and decorate them with flowers etc. and invite the dead to return. You can only imagine how evil this festival is. Please pray for our leader as she prepares a class on the reasons we don't celebrate either Halloween or Day of the Dead. For many kids it is just another chance to dress up and get lots of sweets (candies) and they don't understand the true significance. Pray that the lesson will be effective in pointing these kids to Christ and His victory over death and the grave.
The following week we will have an alternative party.
Some of the ladies on the team have noticed the terrible condition of the kids' teeth. There are a couple of dentists in the church and we have arranged for them to come to the club next week to look at the kids teeth. We're also hoping to be able to get a hold of some free toothpaste and tooth brushes if possible. The kids will be taught how to look after their teeth and some may get follow-up appointments during the week. Pray that by helping in this practical way the community around the church will see that we care and that God does too and that they will be drawn into the church.
My conversation with Itzel was interrupted by one of our helpers who was apologizing that she hasn't been able to help out as regularly. Her husband was out of work and they had been traveling all over the place trying to sell things to make ends meet. The latest news is that her husband has traveled up to the border with America and is hoping to get in there and get some work to support his family. He has left his wife and two young boys at home who are of course missing him desperately. It's a hard one. Work is hard to find here and can be extremely badly paid and yet this little family need their dad and husband. Pray that something will be worked out...and for God's grace in this situation.
The little street kids are still coming, always arriving early and helping out where they can and they have been bringing along some of their friends. We are amazed at how interested they are in the bible teaching. Obviously this is all new to them and they are drinking it in.
Next week one of the leaders is preparing a special seasonal lesson. Here in Mexico there is a traditional festival known as 'Day of the Dead' It will be celebrated on the 2nd November. Halloween is also becoming more and more popular and so in the same way that there are decorations all over the place for Independence day and Christmas eventually all the street stalls are currently selling plastic skulls, ghosts, skeletons and the like.
Traditionally people will build shrines and decorate them with flowers etc. and invite the dead to return. You can only imagine how evil this festival is. Please pray for our leader as she prepares a class on the reasons we don't celebrate either Halloween or Day of the Dead. For many kids it is just another chance to dress up and get lots of sweets (candies) and they don't understand the true significance. Pray that the lesson will be effective in pointing these kids to Christ and His victory over death and the grave.
The following week we will have an alternative party.
Some of the ladies on the team have noticed the terrible condition of the kids' teeth. There are a couple of dentists in the church and we have arranged for them to come to the club next week to look at the kids teeth. We're also hoping to be able to get a hold of some free toothpaste and tooth brushes if possible. The kids will be taught how to look after their teeth and some may get follow-up appointments during the week. Pray that by helping in this practical way the community around the church will see that we care and that God does too and that they will be drawn into the church.
Oscar's brother update
Andrew went to a football (soccer) tournament with Alex, Paty and Fidel on Friday. It was organised by the government and lots of kids we know from different groups over the city were playing. The main reason for going was that the kids who have been at the Drop-In Centre were playing together as a team...and they won! So now they are expecting a celebration meal! Going to such events is always good for further establishing relationships with the kids and gave the team another opportunity to encourage kids to go along to the Drop-In Centre.
Oscar was also there and the latest news is that his brother is still in prison. There will just be one more hearing before a final decision will be made - whether he will be released (with a fine) or not. Please pray that he will be released but that through all of this both boys will commit their lives to Christ.
Oscar was also there and the latest news is that his brother is still in prison. There will just be one more hearing before a final decision will be made - whether he will be released (with a fine) or not. Please pray that he will be released but that through all of this both boys will commit their lives to Christ.
Permit
It's hard to explain the process here. Obtaining this permit should have been a relatively simple thing (in contrast perhaps to the finding of a suitable engineer to get the plans drawn up for the completion of the re-modelling work!).
Andrew got the papers he needed and went back to the office to find that there was still another paper that needed to be signed (a couple of hours driving!). Finally on Friday he was able to go down again and praise God was able to get the permit. So now we have permission for all the work that the team plan to do.
It's so interesting to hear the guys talk about the work. Most of their expertise and even vocabulary baffles us. How wonderful that God gives different gifts and abilities and the opportunity to use them for His glory. I would hate to think of the mess if all the planning and organisation for this project was left to us! What is a grinder anyway? And what does it mean to seal cement? And who knows what else those guys were talking about?! But if you are a wife reading in then be encouraged that at least the guys seem to be eating well and in a small way I have played a part there as have others in our missionary team!
Andrew got the papers he needed and went back to the office to find that there was still another paper that needed to be signed (a couple of hours driving!). Finally on Friday he was able to go down again and praise God was able to get the permit. So now we have permission for all the work that the team plan to do.
It's so interesting to hear the guys talk about the work. Most of their expertise and even vocabulary baffles us. How wonderful that God gives different gifts and abilities and the opportunity to use them for His glory. I would hate to think of the mess if all the planning and organisation for this project was left to us! What is a grinder anyway? And what does it mean to seal cement? And who knows what else those guys were talking about?! But if you are a wife reading in then be encouraged that at least the guys seem to be eating well and in a small way I have played a part there as have others in our missionary team!
More prayers answered
Once again thank you for checking into the blog and thank you for your prayers. We are just overwhelmed as we see God answer your specific prayers for even the little things in our lives.
On Monday Andrew phoned home to say that there was a piece of paper in the OMS office in my name which we had to take to the post office to get a parcel. We went down excitedly on Tuesday and sure enough it was a box for me. I was expecting 2 books but it was just one. The other is still en route but I am confident that with our prayers it will eventually arrive too!
The team have all arrived safely. José was badly delayed and re-routed due to bad weather but he got here and the rest of the team arrived yesterday. One of the guys, Steve was here 4 months ago with one of the teams that worked on the Drop-In Centre and will be coming back in January again. It's so fantastic to build some continuity and to be encouraged as we see God work in the lives of others getting them excited about what He is doing here too.
Tabitha was a little overwhelmed by the invasion of men into our home last night but she soon found her performing ability and stole the show! We're looking forward to how God is going to use this diverse team not just in the practical work they do but also in the interactions they have with kids and staff in the centre. There is usually at least one kid who is profoundly affected by time spent with people who come on these teams.
Last Thursday Andrew felt another bad headache coming on. We had to rush away from our missionary meeting to get him to bed. Normally his headaches are incredibly severe and I know we have asked for prayer for our stamina over the next couple of weeks as some time off with Andrew's parents approaches. Once again we felt the power of your prayers. The headache didn't take such a severe course and Andrew was able to get up again allowing us to catch up on our different days.
How do we say thank you? Please know that your prayers are being answered and be encouraged. We are so weak but we feel strengthened as we join together and as we see God answer in the smaller, practical details we know that He is also moving in the unseen, deeper areas as well.
On Monday Andrew phoned home to say that there was a piece of paper in the OMS office in my name which we had to take to the post office to get a parcel. We went down excitedly on Tuesday and sure enough it was a box for me. I was expecting 2 books but it was just one. The other is still en route but I am confident that with our prayers it will eventually arrive too!
The team have all arrived safely. José was badly delayed and re-routed due to bad weather but he got here and the rest of the team arrived yesterday. One of the guys, Steve was here 4 months ago with one of the teams that worked on the Drop-In Centre and will be coming back in January again. It's so fantastic to build some continuity and to be encouraged as we see God work in the lives of others getting them excited about what He is doing here too.
Tabitha was a little overwhelmed by the invasion of men into our home last night but she soon found her performing ability and stole the show! We're looking forward to how God is going to use this diverse team not just in the practical work they do but also in the interactions they have with kids and staff in the centre. There is usually at least one kid who is profoundly affected by time spent with people who come on these teams.
Last Thursday Andrew felt another bad headache coming on. We had to rush away from our missionary meeting to get him to bed. Normally his headaches are incredibly severe and I know we have asked for prayer for our stamina over the next couple of weeks as some time off with Andrew's parents approaches. Once again we felt the power of your prayers. The headache didn't take such a severe course and Andrew was able to get up again allowing us to catch up on our different days.
How do we say thank you? Please know that your prayers are being answered and be encouraged. We are so weak but we feel strengthened as we join together and as we see God answer in the smaller, practical details we know that He is also moving in the unseen, deeper areas as well.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Motivation for Service
I was challenged this week on this topic through my daily readings. All of us Christians serve God in some capacity but why? Why do we get involved in our churches? Why do we serve our families? Why do we reach out to others? Why do we keep at it 'til we're exhausted at times?
The challenge comes from John 21:17 where Jesus asks Peter, "Do you love me?" And the writer of the devotional said this:
"Jesus reached into Peter's heart and put His finger on Peter's motivation for service. Peter's motivation to live for Jesus and to serve Jesus was not to be an attempt to stave off guilt, or to earn forgiveness, or to avoid criticism or to prove something to someone, or to gain approval or recognition. Peter's sole motivation in service was to be his love for Jesus, pure and simple."
And for me that is what will cause me to be able to keep going despite the tiredness, despite the discouragements and the failures. May my love for Him grow more and more!
The challenge comes from John 21:17 where Jesus asks Peter, "Do you love me?" And the writer of the devotional said this:
"Jesus reached into Peter's heart and put His finger on Peter's motivation for service. Peter's motivation to live for Jesus and to serve Jesus was not to be an attempt to stave off guilt, or to earn forgiveness, or to avoid criticism or to prove something to someone, or to gain approval or recognition. Peter's sole motivation in service was to be his love for Jesus, pure and simple."
And for me that is what will cause me to be able to keep going despite the tiredness, despite the discouragements and the failures. May my love for Him grow more and more!
Another church contact
After service at La Loma today Andrew and Miguel headed off to a church in the south of the city. Andrew will meet the folks there as he continues to establish contacts with church leaders and assess how Social Ministries can help them to reach the communities around their churches with the gospel.
(And he's just phoned to say he's going on to his second church in the area and this time he's been told he has to preach...with no notice. You will probably read this too late to pray but it's a good reminder to be ready at a moments notice and you can continue to pray that as we encounter these types of situations that God will continue to give us wisdom and equip us for the task!)
We were encouraged this week that one of the pastors in the city has agreed to put together boxes of Christmas presents in his church that will be taken to the churches in Acapulco for distribution among the poor there. Hopefully there will be other churches here that will get involved too. Praise God for the contact between churches and for the desire to reach out to others!
(And he's just phoned to say he's going on to his second church in the area and this time he's been told he has to preach...with no notice. You will probably read this too late to pray but it's a good reminder to be ready at a moments notice and you can continue to pray that as we encounter these types of situations that God will continue to give us wisdom and equip us for the task!)
We were encouraged this week that one of the pastors in the city has agreed to put together boxes of Christmas presents in his church that will be taken to the churches in Acapulco for distribution among the poor there. Hopefully there will be other churches here that will get involved too. Praise God for the contact between churches and for the desire to reach out to others!
Visitors
Tomorrow sees the first arrival of the team who will come to work at the drop-in centre. Most of the team arrive on Friday but tomorrow José and Frank come to plan out the work for the team and get materials. Please pray for safe travels and a profitable trip.
Andrew wasn't able to get the permit this week as it required more paperwork which he wasn't able to get a hold of. He should be able to get it early this week and has been told that when he has it he will get the permit in 15 minutes! Pray that it will all work out and give thanks that Andrew started the process early enough to be able to figure all this out before the team arrive!
Andrew wasn't able to get the permit this week as it required more paperwork which he wasn't able to get a hold of. He should be able to get it early this week and has been told that when he has it he will get the permit in 15 minutes! Pray that it will all work out and give thanks that Andrew started the process early enough to be able to figure all this out before the team arrive!
Oscar
During the week Andrew had been praying for one of his favourite kids who he hadn't seem in ages. As he was out in the car one day he saw the kid and called him over. It was obviously God! Oscar's brother who was still living on the streets had been imprisoned and the family is having to pay money (that they don't have) to visit him, to take food to him, to ensure he doesn't get beaten up in the prison etc. and they say he is innocent. It seems here that following an accusation you are guilty until proven innocent and so there will be several court hearings before a decision is made. Meanwhile Oscar's brother will stay in th prison. As you can imagine Oscar desperately needed to talk and through time in the Drop-In centre with Andrew and Fidel he was greatly encouraged (as was Andrew to see him again).
Pray that justice will be done in this situation but pray for these two boys. They are great guys, about 19/20 years old. Pray that this will be a wake-up call for them both and that in the midst of this situation God would speak to them both and that they would clearly give their lives over to Him.
Pray that justice will be done in this situation but pray for these two boys. They are great guys, about 19/20 years old. Pray that this will be a wake-up call for them both and that in the midst of this situation God would speak to them both and that they would clearly give their lives over to Him.
Answers to prayer
I was just thinking this morning about some of the specific answers to prayer. This week we have had good health. I'm still getting nauseous if I get over-tired but that's easily remedied! Tabitha health has been great this week and her belly seems to be better adjusted than ever before. Thank you for your prayers.
We were also really encouraged yesterday at the breakfast club. We had a good group of kids but what encouraged me most was that we had more help. I was particularly encouraged to see a couple of our leaders sitting down beside kids, chatting to them and encouraging them to come back next week. That is something that doesn't usually happen as leaders often just let the kids get on with it and don't interact much. Praise God for this answer to prayer please keep praying that it will continue.
This week we will be on the green page of the wordless book (Christian growth) and the lesson is being given by a talented young chap but he's nervous as he doesn't have much experience. Pray that he will be used and that he will gain the confidence to boldly proclaim truth that will make a difference in these kids lives.
Perhaps you prayed for quiet hearts after you read about our struggle with discipline. Please be encouraged that as Andrew gave the lesson this week you could have heard a pin drop! We're just so grateful for those of you who are reading the blog and praying specifically. We're in this together and God is doing great things!
We were also really encouraged yesterday at the breakfast club. We had a good group of kids but what encouraged me most was that we had more help. I was particularly encouraged to see a couple of our leaders sitting down beside kids, chatting to them and encouraging them to come back next week. That is something that doesn't usually happen as leaders often just let the kids get on with it and don't interact much. Praise God for this answer to prayer please keep praying that it will continue.
This week we will be on the green page of the wordless book (Christian growth) and the lesson is being given by a talented young chap but he's nervous as he doesn't have much experience. Pray that he will be used and that he will gain the confidence to boldly proclaim truth that will make a difference in these kids lives.
Perhaps you prayed for quiet hearts after you read about our struggle with discipline. Please be encouraged that as Andrew gave the lesson this week you could have heard a pin drop! We're just so grateful for those of you who are reading the blog and praying specifically. We're in this together and God is doing great things!
Materials for my course
I got the lectures this week. Thank you for your prayers. Turns out the address was wrong on the packet. Andrew tried to intercept the delivery but was told that the contract was signed and there was nothing that could be done. He would have to wait until it was refused and then arrange an alternative delivery address.
He kept his eye on the computer on Monday and found that it had been signed for so Tabitha was dragged out of bed and they went on a long search to find the place where it had been delivered. Street labeling here is a little strange so eventually he had the brainwave to ask in a pizza place which does deliveries.
Strangely the people had paid £15/$30 to receive a parcel that wasn't theirs! Andrew gave them the money, retrieved the parcel and thankfully I have been able to catch up a little this week. I'm still waiting for the books which should have arrived at the latest over a week ago! I'm due to have parts of them read for net Monday and would really appreciate your prayers that they arrive this week. God knows where they are and He can put them into the hands of reliable people who will get them to their proper destination!
He kept his eye on the computer on Monday and found that it had been signed for so Tabitha was dragged out of bed and they went on a long search to find the place where it had been delivered. Street labeling here is a little strange so eventually he had the brainwave to ask in a pizza place which does deliveries.
Strangely the people had paid £15/$30 to receive a parcel that wasn't theirs! Andrew gave them the money, retrieved the parcel and thankfully I have been able to catch up a little this week. I'm still waiting for the books which should have arrived at the latest over a week ago! I'm due to have parts of them read for net Monday and would really appreciate your prayers that they arrive this week. God knows where they are and He can put them into the hands of reliable people who will get them to their proper destination!
A day out with the girls
On Monday this week all the missionary ladies (except Lupita who was away) had a day out and Tabitha had a day with her daddy. We went to a little town about 2 hours drive away which is famous for it's glass Christmas decorations which they sell all year. We saw them blowing the ornaments and hand painting and of course took the opportunity to pick up a few. One man was telling me that they export all over the world to large companies. It was a great day of friendship and fellowship and as you can see it was a pretty little town too.
And it was a chance to get away from the smoky big city and see a different pace of life again!
And it was a chance to get away from the smoky big city and see a different pace of life again!
Sunday, October 07, 2007
Mex-i-Kids
This week there was a breakfast/conference for ladies planned for the same time as Mex-i-Kids. It was a great event with 70 ladies attending and lives being touched. What it meant for the club was that we were greatly reduced in leaders and we had about 40 kids! Some new from the area and probably some there as their mums were at the conference. So besides Andrew and me we had 3 leaders and a teenager to help! We were run ragged but the kids seemed to have a great time and thankfully we had organised a craft that they loved - decorating biscuits with sweets!
Here are some of the younger kids working...and eating!
And some of the older girls...
We are going through the visualised wordless book at the moment and this week it was my turn to teach the 'red page'. Some of the kids already know the story but some were intrigued...after we finally got them settled down. Discipline here takes on a whole new meaning from what we are used to. We find it incredibly hard going. Kids seem to completely ignore us at times and it doesn't seem to be language difficulties. So while I taught Andrew prayed and amazingly at one point I had everyone's attention and was able to get the point across clearly. Prayer works!!
We are finding some of the kids to be a lot more open and friendly. The little kids can be especially hard work but some of the older primary kids are really warming up to us. Of course what we really want is for more Mexicans to come on board and to develop vital relationships with the kids, showing them and example of Christ and attracting kids to want to come to know Him for themselves. Please keep praying for the team and for more workers.
Here are some of the younger kids working...and eating!
And some of the older girls...
We are going through the visualised wordless book at the moment and this week it was my turn to teach the 'red page'. Some of the kids already know the story but some were intrigued...after we finally got them settled down. Discipline here takes on a whole new meaning from what we are used to. We find it incredibly hard going. Kids seem to completely ignore us at times and it doesn't seem to be language difficulties. So while I taught Andrew prayed and amazingly at one point I had everyone's attention and was able to get the point across clearly. Prayer works!!
We are finding some of the kids to be a lot more open and friendly. The little kids can be especially hard work but some of the older primary kids are really warming up to us. Of course what we really want is for more Mexicans to come on board and to develop vital relationships with the kids, showing them and example of Christ and attracting kids to want to come to know Him for themselves. Please keep praying for the team and for more workers.
Our health
Thank you for continuing to pray for our health. This week I had routine tests (for pregnancy) and a doctor's appointment. Everything appears to be fine so far. There's plenty of movement from baby and when we ask Tabitha where her baby brother/sister (we haven't officially announced on the blog though it's not a secret if you want to know) she lifts up her t-shirt and points at her belly!
Talking of Tabitha's belly she is doing much better. I know people are often asking about her. her system seems to be much better adjusted and she loves her Mexican food.
Andrew had another of his migraines this week. It's an indication that he was pushing himself a little too hard. It lasted for about 6 hours and he worked from home on Friday. We're looking forward to a visit from Andrew's parents at the beginning of November when we will take some time off.
Talking of Tabitha's belly she is doing much better. I know people are often asking about her. her system seems to be much better adjusted and she loves her Mexican food.
Andrew had another of his migraines this week. It's an indication that he was pushing himself a little too hard. It lasted for about 6 hours and he worked from home on Friday. We're looking forward to a visit from Andrew's parents at the beginning of November when we will take some time off.
A crucial time for some
The team have now been working very closely with a few kids in the Drop-In Centre for two months when the official program started. Over that time the kids have become a lot more open and trusting. Several have expressed a desire to leave the streets recently. Please pray for us as we start the process with these kids. If you've been reading the blog for a while you will know that it will be a long process with ups and downs along the way. We want to keep learning to give them the best start and support we can but there is no underestimating the prayer and God's intervention that is needed.
One of the girls (we'll call her Viki) recently announced that she is pregnant (to her half-brother!). She is 17 years old and has always seemed to be outspoken and quite cheeky. It seems though that the pregnancy has brought with it a sense of responsibility and she has started to soften and ask a lot of questions. There is a possibility that I might meet up with Viki. Pray that that would work out if it is in God's will and pray for Viki, her health as well as the baby's, and that she will find the answers she is looking for. Pray most importantly that she will find Christ. Viki doesn't live on the streets but she hangs about with the guys who have left fairly recently and rent near Alex and Paty's house. She has had some exposure to the Word of God through Proyecto MEFI.
One of the girls (we'll call her Viki) recently announced that she is pregnant (to her half-brother!). She is 17 years old and has always seemed to be outspoken and quite cheeky. It seems though that the pregnancy has brought with it a sense of responsibility and she has started to soften and ask a lot of questions. There is a possibility that I might meet up with Viki. Pray that that would work out if it is in God's will and pray for Viki, her health as well as the baby's, and that she will find the answers she is looking for. Pray most importantly that she will find Christ. Viki doesn't live on the streets but she hangs about with the guys who have left fairly recently and rent near Alex and Paty's house. She has had some exposure to the Word of God through Proyecto MEFI.
Permit
We still don't have an engineer to help with the plans for the complete remodelling of the Drop-In Centre. It's not for want of trying. Several have not worked out and one that we know we will be able to trust and who wants to help is out of the country until the New Year. We will probably write to him and see if he could recommend anyone.
In the meantime Andrew and Fidel drew up a list of jobs that the team coming in two weeks could do. This includes replacing the front windows and painting the wall (to cover the graffiti), raising a wall at the front of the building to increase security, plastering, securing windows, clearing the roof etc. They went to a government department with a list of the proposed work and found out that with the correct documentation (which is not difficult to get) they will be able to get a free permit on the spot which means the work can be done without interruption or questions being asked.
In the meantime Andrew and Fidel drew up a list of jobs that the team coming in two weeks could do. This includes replacing the front windows and painting the wall (to cover the graffiti), raising a wall at the front of the building to increase security, plastering, securing windows, clearing the roof etc. They went to a government department with a list of the proposed work and found out that with the correct documentation (which is not difficult to get) they will be able to get a free permit on the spot which means the work can be done without interruption or questions being asked.
Course Materials
Please keep praying. The lecture materials were due to arrive on Friday and someone was waiting in the office to receive the parcel until 9pm (doing her own work at the time). At 7.30 the tracking said that the delivery attempt had failed as no-one was there to receive it! I have a feeling the driver wasn't up to fighting the traffic which is always terrible on a Friday night and due to the rain was particularly bad. Hopefully they will try again tomorrow (by which time I need to have listened to the first lecture to keep on target with the course dates).
We got a parcel this week which said '2 books' on it. I was all excited and already anticipating writing about the wonderful answer to prayer and then I found out that it was discipleship materials that Andrew had ordered and not the books for my course. Please keep praying that against all the odds they will also arrive!
I've been doing some of the reading of the downloadable materials and am looking forward to getting my teeth into the work properly.
We got a parcel this week which said '2 books' on it. I was all excited and already anticipating writing about the wonderful answer to prayer and then I found out that it was discipleship materials that Andrew had ordered and not the books for my course. Please keep praying that against all the odds they will also arrive!
I've been doing some of the reading of the downloadable materials and am looking forward to getting my teeth into the work properly.
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