Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Sunday, August 8, 2010
The Work is Continuing
The church is almost finished. The blocks have been curing for the past several months and stucco has been applied inside and outside. The final step will be to apply a coat, or two, of paint.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Evangelistic Series March 2010
The local church members had been meeting every morning at 5am for 40 days to pray for the upcoming evangelistic series. While we were in Mexico building the One-Day Church I remember with fondness waking up to the La Fe worshippers singing praises to God. What a beautiful way to start the day!
La Fe Seventh-day Adventist Church, Plan de Ayala
Juan and Brenda entering the baptismal font:
“Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.”
Mark 10:9
Pastor Esteban Chuc and his wife, Ibeth:
After we left Mexico Israel Torres Ramirez, the Bible worker, continued to give Bible studies and help the local church members prepare for the March harvest campaign. We employed him through the evangelistic series.
Team Northern Lights and O’Malley church members lifted up in prayer the people in Mexico as they prepared for the harvest series. We again rejoiced when we received word from Pastor Chuc showing that the Holy Spirit is at work among them: many couples living together were married and 60 people were baptized! The Holy Spirit was moving hearts and lives were being changed.
La Fe SDA Church
La Fe SDA Church
In former blog entries I spoke about Juan, who as not an Adventist, but gave the land to the church in Peñitas to build a new One-Day Church. Our hearts were filled with joy when we heard that Juan and Brenda not only married, but both were baptized! Praise God!
Juan and Brenda entering the baptismal font:
“Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.”
Mark 10:9
Juan's baptism
Brenda's baptism
Pastor Esteban Chuc and his wife, Ibeth:
Update on our sister churches in Chiapas, Mexico
The Holy Spirit is at work in Mexico using the faithful servants of the La Fe and Peñitas Seventh-day Adventist churches. You know from previous blog entries that students of Israel, the Bible worker we hired, are being baptized. And that our team mate, Elizabeth, was baptized when we returned from Mexico. Praise God!
Also mentioned in another blog account was the story of Pastor Chuc and other church members meeting with the family of the people murdered on January 1st. Two of the church members began giving Bible studies to the interested family members and four of them quickly made a decision for baptism. Three couples decided to marry, but deferred baptism until the upcoming evangelistic meeting in February/March. And five of the family members made a commitment to keep the Sabbath holy and asked their employer for Sabbath off.
In Mexico even the children are evangelizing! The local Pathfinders group (similar to a Boy and Girl Scout groups) handed out Christian books and magazines to the soldiers who are guarding the Peñitas dam. It reminded me of Matthew 18:3 where the Word of God says: “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
Team Northern Lights feels a strong kinship with the believers in Chiapas. We are rejoicing with them as new believers come forward to make commitments for the Lord. And although we are very far away we know some day, soon, we all will be united in heaven!
Maranatha!
Also mentioned in another blog account was the story of Pastor Chuc and other church members meeting with the family of the people murdered on January 1st. Two of the church members began giving Bible studies to the interested family members and four of them quickly made a decision for baptism. Three couples decided to marry, but deferred baptism until the upcoming evangelistic meeting in February/March. And five of the family members made a commitment to keep the Sabbath holy and asked their employer for Sabbath off.
In Mexico even the children are evangelizing! The local Pathfinders group (similar to a Boy and Girl Scout groups) handed out Christian books and magazines to the soldiers who are guarding the Peñitas dam. It reminded me of Matthew 18:3 where the Word of God says: “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
Team Northern Lights feels a strong kinship with the believers in Chiapas. We are rejoicing with them as new believers come forward to make commitments for the Lord. And although we are very far away we know some day, soon, we all will be united in heaven!
Maranatha!
Monday, February 22, 2010
Additional Photos
Additional photos can be viewed online at Picassa web. Please click on the 'Photos of Mexico' link under Favorite Links on the right side of the blog.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Elizabeth's Testimony
Every short-term mission trip brings with it a personal lesson from God. Liz’s message was to remember to rely completely on God for everything—from the big things in life to the smallest details. Her first chance to learn this was when her flight was sent back to Anchorage because of mechanical issues. A few days later she was on her way again only to find the plane from Houston to Villahermosa being sent back. She prayed: “Come on God, I’m half way there! Please just get me there!” Liz eventually arrived safely in Mexico and she told our church that “God really just wants us to trust Him” in all things.
Another example Liz commented on relating to God being involved in the details was the great chemistry of the team. Elizabeth mentioned that we had people from ages 18 to in their 60’s and from all over the world. It was a “random group of people who God brought together and made us an effective team”. God wanted us to trust him with all the little details and when we did things just worked out perfectly.
Liz recalled the song Trust and Obey by J.H. Sammis. Part of the hymn states ‘trust and obey for there’s no other way to be happy in Jesus than to trust and obey’. She said that we need to” trust Jesus to work out all the little details, to know that God will take care of it, and then believe it”.
Elizabeth is in Anchorage for a year taking a break between academy and college. It has been a time of personal and spiritual growth and an opportunity to consider being baptized. She said: “Going on the mission trip brought it all together” and she decided to get baptized when she returned home.
At the Reporting Back Service (January 30, 2010), we were honored to watch Lizzie as she commemorated Christ’s resurrection through the waters of baptism. In continuation of the mission trip theme of unity, the entire congregation officially welcomed Elizabeth as our newest member.
His servant,
Lynda
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6
“Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection.” Romans 6:3-5
Elizabeth and Pastor Thearon Staddon before her baptism:
Elizabeth giving her testimony prior to baptism:
Baptising in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit:
A happy Elizabeth post baptism!
James' Testimony
James, also known as Cazort by the group, noted that God had a different message for each team member. For James it came through serving in a totally different capacity on this trip—as team leader. He noted that he has “Type A preferences” and a real problem area at his job is how he handles daily interruptions while working. God used this mission trip as a real growth experience since James had to deal with the same situation as a group leader. He noted that it started the moment he stepped off the plane when he was informed our plans (for our base camp) had been changed. Ah, flexibility, flexibility, flexibility!
James and others worked hard to clean and prepare the new accommodations for the group. He said he was “apprehensive about how the group would view the accommodations”. James said that they not only arrived with smiles on their faces, but added: “Praise God the smiles stayed the entire trip!”
For James the pre-trip devotional was very helpful. It and the daily devotionals showed God was in the details and He timed things in such an incredible way so that each devotional gave us the help we would need for that day.
The brothers and sisters in Chiapas really inspired James. He reports that it: “Hit me hard when they said they had nothing to give back to repay us for helping them”. Through an interpreter he told them that they could repay us by continuing to spread the Gospel in Peñitas. And they are 100% committed to doing just that. James prays that this attitude is contagious and that we will---everyday, wherever we are at—be committed to continue to spread the Gospel to those around us.
James closed by saying the theme of unity was an accurate representation of our mission trip. He added that ‘trust and obey’ are vital to our Christian walk and he praises God for His faithfulness.
His servant,
Lynda
“Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Colossians 3: 12
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6
“Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:9
James and others worked hard to clean and prepare the new accommodations for the group. He said he was “apprehensive about how the group would view the accommodations”. James said that they not only arrived with smiles on their faces, but added: “Praise God the smiles stayed the entire trip!”
For James the pre-trip devotional was very helpful. It and the daily devotionals showed God was in the details and He timed things in such an incredible way so that each devotional gave us the help we would need for that day.
The brothers and sisters in Chiapas really inspired James. He reports that it: “Hit me hard when they said they had nothing to give back to repay us for helping them”. Through an interpreter he told them that they could repay us by continuing to spread the Gospel in Peñitas. And they are 100% committed to doing just that. James prays that this attitude is contagious and that we will---everyday, wherever we are at—be committed to continue to spread the Gospel to those around us.
James closed by saying the theme of unity was an accurate representation of our mission trip. He added that ‘trust and obey’ are vital to our Christian walk and he praises God for His faithfulness.
His servant,
Lynda
“Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Colossians 3: 12
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6
“Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:9
Pastor Chuc and James C.
Bob's Testimony
Bob shared a testimony about a life lesson that God taught him through the mission trip. When he told us how he gave up “heavenly hams” when he became an Adventist four years ago, he said: “I was still a carnivore”.
Prior to the mission trip, Bob heard we would be serving three vegetarian meals a day and he became gravely worried. Bob wasn’t sure he would survive and he even went as far as to show his wife where his Last Will and Testament was kept! This is Bob’s statement when he reported to us how he did with the mission trip vegetarian-only meals: “Low and behold, it was the best I ever felt!” We shared Bob’s happy laughter at this God-given eye-opener.
Now Bob is stubborn by his own admission and he said the God had an extra lesson for him when he arrived back in Houston after the mission trip. Bob retells opening the paper and reading the obituaries. There was an obit about the death of the self-billed world’s strongest man…and he was a lifelong vegetarian! And he died just 3 months shy of his 105th birthday weighing in at a mere 125 pounds.
In his youth he could lift 475 pounds with his teeth, 635 pounds with one finger, and 3200 pounds with his back. Last year at his birthday he bent a quarter between his fingers. And the only reason he died at age 104 was because he was run over by a minivan!
Bob took this message to heart and decided to make some dietary changes back here at home. He and his wife, Sun, are looking for new ways to eat healthy.
Bob also related a sentiment shared by the other team members: “It was a blessed privilege” to be on this mission trip.
His servant,
Lynda
“Daniel then said to the guard whom the chief official had appointed over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah, "Please test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink. Then compare our appearance with that of the young men who eat the royal food, and treat your servants in accordance with what you see." So he agreed to this and tested them for ten days. At the end of the ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who ate the royal food. So the guard took away their choice food and the wine they were to drink and gave them vegetables instead.” Daniel 1:11-16
Prior to the mission trip, Bob heard we would be serving three vegetarian meals a day and he became gravely worried. Bob wasn’t sure he would survive and he even went as far as to show his wife where his Last Will and Testament was kept! This is Bob’s statement when he reported to us how he did with the mission trip vegetarian-only meals: “Low and behold, it was the best I ever felt!” We shared Bob’s happy laughter at this God-given eye-opener.
Now Bob is stubborn by his own admission and he said the God had an extra lesson for him when he arrived back in Houston after the mission trip. Bob retells opening the paper and reading the obituaries. There was an obit about the death of the self-billed world’s strongest man…and he was a lifelong vegetarian! And he died just 3 months shy of his 105th birthday weighing in at a mere 125 pounds.
In his youth he could lift 475 pounds with his teeth, 635 pounds with one finger, and 3200 pounds with his back. Last year at his birthday he bent a quarter between his fingers. And the only reason he died at age 104 was because he was run over by a minivan!
Bob took this message to heart and decided to make some dietary changes back here at home. He and his wife, Sun, are looking for new ways to eat healthy.
Bob also related a sentiment shared by the other team members: “It was a blessed privilege” to be on this mission trip.
His servant,
Lynda
“Daniel then said to the guard whom the chief official had appointed over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah, "Please test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink. Then compare our appearance with that of the young men who eat the royal food, and treat your servants in accordance with what you see." So he agreed to this and tested them for ten days. At the end of the ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who ate the royal food. So the guard took away their choice food and the wine they were to drink and gave them vegetables instead.” Daniel 1:11-16
Scott's Testimony
Scott said that “with every experience is a little trauma and drama”. He retold the story of traveling down the road, torn up and littered with potholes, from the Peñitas jobsite to the base camp. He saw a “great white 30-ton dump truck” that came roaring by as the driver passed them and he noticed that the man was holding a beer can in his hand.
Scott said he prayed for God’s protection as they maneuvered the winding roads back to Plan de Ayala. When they arrived back at town, the dump truck was there idling at an intersection. Scott realized that God was protecting them and he thought: “If this is as bad as it gets, we’re doing pretty good!”
Scott maintains that we didn’t really ‘work’ in Mexico. He said that our team had “the gravy work”; that we had the “fun of building” which I heartily agree with! And Scott added that his prayer is for a building that has a joy-filled legacy in the area.
His servant,
Lynda
“You shall pray to him and he will hear you.” Job 22:27
“Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?” 1 Peter 3:13
“The name of the Lord is a strong tower. The righteous run to it and are safe.” Proverbs 18:10
Scott said he prayed for God’s protection as they maneuvered the winding roads back to Plan de Ayala. When they arrived back at town, the dump truck was there idling at an intersection. Scott realized that God was protecting them and he thought: “If this is as bad as it gets, we’re doing pretty good!”
Scott maintains that we didn’t really ‘work’ in Mexico. He said that our team had “the gravy work”; that we had the “fun of building” which I heartily agree with! And Scott added that his prayer is for a building that has a joy-filled legacy in the area.
His servant,
Lynda
“You shall pray to him and he will hear you.” Job 22:27
“Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?” 1 Peter 3:13
“The name of the Lord is a strong tower. The righteous run to it and are safe.” Proverbs 18:10
Steve's Testimony
Steve’s testimony addressed service and attitude. He understood that not only were we ambassadors for Christ in Peñitas, but that we are given the privilege to spread the Gospel wherever we are.
“1:30am like clockwork, and then 3:30am the next one--roosters”, said Steve. He continued: “By 5am it was quiet, but soon the vehicles came rolling in to the courtyard. These people (church members of La Fe Church in Plan de Ayala) gather like clockwork…to pray and fast for a great harvest for their upcoming evangelistic series.” Their dedication to doing the Lord’s work made a deep impression on Steve.
Steve shared that during one of the devotionals I put out this thought: maybe our attitude, the one we build this church with, might be what is left there as a lasting influence when we leave. Our attitude (that was seen by the local people and church members alike) would be a legacy and its impact could be positive or negative. Steve said that “it was a harmonious build and we left the area with a sweet spirit”.
This influence culminated with the communion service on our last Sabbath spent with the Peñitas church members. “We were poured on with rain, but filled with a sweet spirit”, Steve remarked. He emphatically said that we will celebrate with them again.
Blessed to serve,
Lynda
"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men… It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” Colossians 3:23
“If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.” Philippians 2:1-3
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” Galatians 5:22-23
“1:30am like clockwork, and then 3:30am the next one--roosters”, said Steve. He continued: “By 5am it was quiet, but soon the vehicles came rolling in to the courtyard. These people (church members of La Fe Church in Plan de Ayala) gather like clockwork…to pray and fast for a great harvest for their upcoming evangelistic series.” Their dedication to doing the Lord’s work made a deep impression on Steve.
Steve shared that during one of the devotionals I put out this thought: maybe our attitude, the one we build this church with, might be what is left there as a lasting influence when we leave. Our attitude (that was seen by the local people and church members alike) would be a legacy and its impact could be positive or negative. Steve said that “it was a harmonious build and we left the area with a sweet spirit”.
This influence culminated with the communion service on our last Sabbath spent with the Peñitas church members. “We were poured on with rain, but filled with a sweet spirit”, Steve remarked. He emphatically said that we will celebrate with them again.
Blessed to serve,
Lynda
"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men… It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” Colossians 3:23
“If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.” Philippians 2:1-3
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” Galatians 5:22-23
Monday, February 1, 2010
Barney's Testimony
Barney likes people. He is often seen at the O’Malley door on Sabbath greeting people as they come to service. Wherever you find people in need, you will find Barney.
Barney spent a lot of time with the Plan de Ayala members of the La Fe church even though he doesn’t speak their language. Every morning he would go to their 5:30am prayer meeting. Barney said that “the beautiful music and hymns are something I will never forget.” And that the church members treated him like a brother even helping him find his way in the Spanish hymnals.
Barney commented that his “brothers and sisters stretch all the way around the world” and that he knows he can go anywhere and find a brother in Christ. He felt blessed by his interactions with the Mexican worshippers and by knowing that God was with us on this mission trip.
A sister in Christ,
Lynda
“By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." John 13:35
“Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. For the Lord is the great God, the great King above all gods.” Psalm 95:1-3
Barney spent a lot of time with the Plan de Ayala members of the La Fe church even though he doesn’t speak their language. Every morning he would go to their 5:30am prayer meeting. Barney said that “the beautiful music and hymns are something I will never forget.” And that the church members treated him like a brother even helping him find his way in the Spanish hymnals.
Barney commented that his “brothers and sisters stretch all the way around the world” and that he knows he can go anywhere and find a brother in Christ. He felt blessed by his interactions with the Mexican worshippers and by knowing that God was with us on this mission trip.
A sister in Christ,
Lynda
“By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." John 13:35
“Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. For the Lord is the great God, the great King above all gods.” Psalm 95:1-3
Chad's Testimony
Chad began his testimony by saying that going on a mission trip “is something you just need to experience”. He saw God working on a daily basis and observed that it was “evident we serve a living God”.
He was concerned prior to the mission trip how the team would respond to each other and any difficulties, but there wasn’t a problem…even when people were throwing up in buckets they had a smile on their face! Chad said that, looking back, how we interacted with others and how we came across to others related back to being in God’s word through the devotionals on a twice daily basis. Chad said: “they kept us on track” and “set our hearts in the right place as a team”.
Chad cited one instance of God’s hand on our trip: Pastor Chuc was called away and wouldn’t be available to give the sermon our last Sabbath. We were initially told the church elders would do it, but that Sabbath morning we were told our team was giving the sermon! Flexibility, flexibility, flexibility! We prayed for God’s guidance and the results were extraordinary.
Prior to the mission trip Chad and his wife were visiting family in Seattle. His wife, Sandy, packed his bag the night before he left for Mexico. Instead of packing his Bible Sandy put hers in Chad’s suitcase. Chad said he would have put his own Bible in the suitcase so Sandy doing the packing and Sandy putting her Bible in the suitcase were Providential. And that was one example of God taking care of a need before we even knew we had one!
In 2006 when Chad and Sandy were in Nepal she was asked to give a sermon at the last moment (Flexibility, Flexibility, Flexibility!). She quickly put one together and underlined the text in her Bible. That Bible was in Chad’s hands the last Sabbath in Mexico and to go one step further the theme was on Christian Unity which was not only fitting for the bicultural communion service we were leading, but would also later become the Northern Lights mission trip theme.
One remarkable story after another, just like Chad’s, was shared during the teams Reporting Back Service last Sabbath. Without a doubt this was God’s mission trip. And we were honored to be part of the experience of God at work in Mexico.
His servant,
Lynda
“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one.” John 17:20
He was concerned prior to the mission trip how the team would respond to each other and any difficulties, but there wasn’t a problem…even when people were throwing up in buckets they had a smile on their face! Chad said that, looking back, how we interacted with others and how we came across to others related back to being in God’s word through the devotionals on a twice daily basis. Chad said: “they kept us on track” and “set our hearts in the right place as a team”.
Chad cited one instance of God’s hand on our trip: Pastor Chuc was called away and wouldn’t be available to give the sermon our last Sabbath. We were initially told the church elders would do it, but that Sabbath morning we were told our team was giving the sermon! Flexibility, flexibility, flexibility! We prayed for God’s guidance and the results were extraordinary.
Prior to the mission trip Chad and his wife were visiting family in Seattle. His wife, Sandy, packed his bag the night before he left for Mexico. Instead of packing his Bible Sandy put hers in Chad’s suitcase. Chad said he would have put his own Bible in the suitcase so Sandy doing the packing and Sandy putting her Bible in the suitcase were Providential. And that was one example of God taking care of a need before we even knew we had one!
In 2006 when Chad and Sandy were in Nepal she was asked to give a sermon at the last moment (Flexibility, Flexibility, Flexibility!). She quickly put one together and underlined the text in her Bible. That Bible was in Chad’s hands the last Sabbath in Mexico and to go one step further the theme was on Christian Unity which was not only fitting for the bicultural communion service we were leading, but would also later become the Northern Lights mission trip theme.
One remarkable story after another, just like Chad’s, was shared during the teams Reporting Back Service last Sabbath. Without a doubt this was God’s mission trip. And we were honored to be part of the experience of God at work in Mexico.
His servant,
Lynda
“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one.” John 17:20
Lynda's Testimony
In the fall of 2007 I made a commitment to God to be obedient to His call—wherever it took me. I also prayed for Him to change my character because I knew I would need a change in my heart, thoughts, and actions if I was to be of useful service to Him.
In the past couple years God has been slowly working with me and 2009 proved to be a year filled with growth opportunities. Through such experiences as a job resignation, home burglary, and a diagnosis of breast cancer God showed me that I not only needed Him, but that He would be there supplying the answer to my problem sometimes before I even knew I had a need. He showed me again and again that He was in control and had each detail of my life taken care of. And in the midst of turmoil, He gave me peace.
In planning the mission trip, I often felt frustrated at the lack of progress. Each time I took a problem to the Lord he gave me peace and guidance—without fail. I cannot recall how many times I said to God: “I can’t do this!” nor how many times He said: “I can.”
Two of my weaknesses were doubt in my ability to be an effective leader and feeling inadequate in my knowledge of spiritual matters. Six weeks prior to the mission trip we still didn’t have a spiritual leader and after much prayer I felt God telling me to do it. Wow. Right to my weaknesses He went and right to my knees I fell. “I can’t do this”, I prayed. “You can’t, but I can”, came the answer again.
So I developed a routine of praying and then researching through my personal library, the church library, and online for appropriate subjects to share as devotionals. I don’t believe I’ve ever poured through so many books, articles, and even the Bible searching God’s word for mission related Scriptures. It was a wonderful experience—perhaps even the highlight of the entire trip for me! As I was searching for ways to keep our team connected to God I found myself growing even closer to Him myself. I looked forward to what I would discover each day.
After I had created individual devotionals I then prayed about how and when to present them. I put together a specific schedule with a short morning devotional and a longer evening devotional. Even though I did the physical work I know it was God who worked through me to do it. It was amazing how each day the devotional seemed Tailor-made to fit that day.
The main lesson I learned through the mission trip was that God totally delights in using His strength to work through our weaknesses. And that is when you see God--and not Lynda--at work.
Privleged to serve,
Lynda
In the past couple years God has been slowly working with me and 2009 proved to be a year filled with growth opportunities. Through such experiences as a job resignation, home burglary, and a diagnosis of breast cancer God showed me that I not only needed Him, but that He would be there supplying the answer to my problem sometimes before I even knew I had a need. He showed me again and again that He was in control and had each detail of my life taken care of. And in the midst of turmoil, He gave me peace.
In planning the mission trip, I often felt frustrated at the lack of progress. Each time I took a problem to the Lord he gave me peace and guidance—without fail. I cannot recall how many times I said to God: “I can’t do this!” nor how many times He said: “I can.”
Two of my weaknesses were doubt in my ability to be an effective leader and feeling inadequate in my knowledge of spiritual matters. Six weeks prior to the mission trip we still didn’t have a spiritual leader and after much prayer I felt God telling me to do it. Wow. Right to my weaknesses He went and right to my knees I fell. “I can’t do this”, I prayed. “You can’t, but I can”, came the answer again.
So I developed a routine of praying and then researching through my personal library, the church library, and online for appropriate subjects to share as devotionals. I don’t believe I’ve ever poured through so many books, articles, and even the Bible searching God’s word for mission related Scriptures. It was a wonderful experience—perhaps even the highlight of the entire trip for me! As I was searching for ways to keep our team connected to God I found myself growing even closer to Him myself. I looked forward to what I would discover each day.
After I had created individual devotionals I then prayed about how and when to present them. I put together a specific schedule with a short morning devotional and a longer evening devotional. Even though I did the physical work I know it was God who worked through me to do it. It was amazing how each day the devotional seemed Tailor-made to fit that day.
The main lesson I learned through the mission trip was that God totally delights in using His strength to work through our weaknesses. And that is when you see God--and not Lynda--at work.
Privleged to serve,
Lynda
Janell's Testimony
Janell, who said the mission trip was “one of the most awesome things I’ve done”, shared a testimony about Faith, Trust, and A Little Piece of Heaven. She continued saying that her family and friends were concerned about her safety in Mexico however Janell wasn’t worried. She had faith that God would care for her (and the entire team) and that Maranatha wouldn’t allow us to continue with this mission trip if the area wasn’t safe. God proved his faithfulness in protecting us throughout the entire trip and Janell prays that it will be a witness to her family and friends of God’s unfailing love for us.
As the team nurse, Janell had a lot of responsibility on her shoulders and she didn’t take it lightly. At one point she said: “I had an overwhelming fear of something major happening on this trip”. Janell works in a hospital environment where she feels secure because she can call a charge nurse, doctor, or call code for help. But in Mexico she didn’t have the familiar safety nets. She prayed about the situation and God reminded her that He was with her, always would be with her, and that she needed to remember to call on Him even when she felt secure.
Janell’s little piece of heaven was communion and she said it “was one of the most memorable moments” of the mission trip. She stated: “It takes away all prejudices” and that God has His people everywhere. Janell holds a dear thought in her heart…that some day she will see her Mexican brothers and sisters in heaven. She said of the communion experience in Peñitas: “It was very humbling”.
Blessed to serve,
Lynda
Psalm 121:2 “My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”
Psalm 133:1 “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!”
As the team nurse, Janell had a lot of responsibility on her shoulders and she didn’t take it lightly. At one point she said: “I had an overwhelming fear of something major happening on this trip”. Janell works in a hospital environment where she feels secure because she can call a charge nurse, doctor, or call code for help. But in Mexico she didn’t have the familiar safety nets. She prayed about the situation and God reminded her that He was with her, always would be with her, and that she needed to remember to call on Him even when she felt secure.
Janell’s little piece of heaven was communion and she said it “was one of the most memorable moments” of the mission trip. She stated: “It takes away all prejudices” and that God has His people everywhere. Janell holds a dear thought in her heart…that some day she will see her Mexican brothers and sisters in heaven. She said of the communion experience in Peñitas: “It was very humbling”.
Blessed to serve,
Lynda
Psalm 121:2 “My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”
Psalm 133:1 “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!”
Rincon's Testimony
James (known to the team as Rincon since we have two James’ on the team) started his testimony by stating that he had never been a proponent of Americans going to other countries to construct buildings. He felt that they might be poor quality jobs (I would add: by well-meaning people) and we could do better by just hiring the locals to do the same quality work. This mission team was dedicated to giving their best to the Lord and constructed a good quality building for the people of Peñitas and Rincon said this trip helped change his mind about foreign construction mission trips.
While in Mexico Rincon went to a local taco stand and the owner started asking him questions about the team—who we were, where we were from, and such. James said he isn’t one to give testimony usually, but he turned the conversation around and asked the man if he knew about the Adventists. Here is where the story becomes God-sized!
The taco stand man wasn’t currently attending church. However his grandfather was one of the first Adventist converts in the state of Chiapas and Rincon’s grandmother was one of the missionaries sharing the Gospel in his grandfather’s area. The man knew of Rincon’s grandmother from the stories his grandfather told him.
James asked if the man knew about the upcoming harvest evangelistic series (in Plan de Ayala February 27 – March 6) and he did, but no one had invited him. James invited the man to attend and he promised he would go. So here they were…the grandson of the missionary inviting the grandson of the convert to return to church. It is indeed a very small world.
Rincon noted that it was a blessing to hear about his grandmother from this man. He also said that he realized if you take the time to get to know a person that God will turn the conversation around to where He wants it to go.
What a wonderful God we serve!
Lynda
Deuteronomy 7:9 “Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands.”
While in Mexico Rincon went to a local taco stand and the owner started asking him questions about the team—who we were, where we were from, and such. James said he isn’t one to give testimony usually, but he turned the conversation around and asked the man if he knew about the Adventists. Here is where the story becomes God-sized!
The taco stand man wasn’t currently attending church. However his grandfather was one of the first Adventist converts in the state of Chiapas and Rincon’s grandmother was one of the missionaries sharing the Gospel in his grandfather’s area. The man knew of Rincon’s grandmother from the stories his grandfather told him.
James asked if the man knew about the upcoming harvest evangelistic series (in Plan de Ayala February 27 – March 6) and he did, but no one had invited him. James invited the man to attend and he promised he would go. So here they were…the grandson of the missionary inviting the grandson of the convert to return to church. It is indeed a very small world.
Rincon noted that it was a blessing to hear about his grandmother from this man. He also said that he realized if you take the time to get to know a person that God will turn the conversation around to where He wants it to go.
What a wonderful God we serve!
Lynda
Deuteronomy 7:9 “Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands.”
Cheryl's Testimony
Cheryl observed that from the very beginning she saw God’s hand in the mission trip. There were many situations during the planning phase and the mission trip itself where she actively saw God at work.
Cheryl mentioned that she is a Type A personality and feels a need to have “all ducks in a row” or she gets easily frustrated. From the early days of the mission trip (shopping in Villahermosa) she felt a struggle between her personality, her comfort zone, and what was going on around her. Cheryl remembered the Maranatha motto we had repeated often to the participants at each meeting: “Flexibility, Flexibility, Flexibility”. So Cheryl gave the situation over to the Lord knowing that He is always faithful.
When Cheryl got to the church where we would be staying for two weeks and saw the kitchen facility, she was disheartened. She thought: “I am down here doing what? I don’t know that I can do this!” The kitchen was well-used to say the least and had green slime on the walls. It was a polar opposite from the clean, wall papered and carpeted kitchen she was used to at O’Malley church. After the slime was to some extent cleaned off the walls, the rains came and brought an endless dripping on the counters, walls, and floors. At one point, Cheryl said to the Lord: “I’m just too old for this”. But Cheryl time and again gave her worries and frustrations over to the Lord knowing that He is in control and He would see her through any challenges she encountered.
Communion with the Peñitas members was a memorable day for Cheryl. She was told it was not open communion (meaning some people would be excluded according to that church’s standards) and after the Pastor’s wife, Ibeth, scanned the congregation she said to prepare for about 30 people. Cheryl decided to pour juice for 35 and began to worry when she saw that every person present that day was participating. She too scanned the crowd and realized there wouldn’t be enough to go around. However, God who had been taking care of all the details for us stepped in again and when the plate with juice cups was returned to the front of the church Cheryl was amazed to see that there was one juice cup remaining. I would like to add that I was sitting at the back of the small church taking photos and I witnessed one person who started to take a cup and then chose to decline the juice. The tray, if everyone had participated, held the exact number of cups needed.
A final example Cheryl cited was that somehow each devotional, morning and evening, fit with whatever was going on at that time. For her, it confirmed again that God was in control of every aspect of our mission trip.
May God bless you through Cheryl’s testimony,
Lynda
Hebrews 10:23 “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.”
Psalm 119:89-90 “Your word, O Lord, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens. Your faithfulness continues through all generations; you established the earth, and it endures.”
Cheryl mentioned that she is a Type A personality and feels a need to have “all ducks in a row” or she gets easily frustrated. From the early days of the mission trip (shopping in Villahermosa) she felt a struggle between her personality, her comfort zone, and what was going on around her. Cheryl remembered the Maranatha motto we had repeated often to the participants at each meeting: “Flexibility, Flexibility, Flexibility”. So Cheryl gave the situation over to the Lord knowing that He is always faithful.
When Cheryl got to the church where we would be staying for two weeks and saw the kitchen facility, she was disheartened. She thought: “I am down here doing what? I don’t know that I can do this!” The kitchen was well-used to say the least and had green slime on the walls. It was a polar opposite from the clean, wall papered and carpeted kitchen she was used to at O’Malley church. After the slime was to some extent cleaned off the walls, the rains came and brought an endless dripping on the counters, walls, and floors. At one point, Cheryl said to the Lord: “I’m just too old for this”. But Cheryl time and again gave her worries and frustrations over to the Lord knowing that He is in control and He would see her through any challenges she encountered.
Communion with the Peñitas members was a memorable day for Cheryl. She was told it was not open communion (meaning some people would be excluded according to that church’s standards) and after the Pastor’s wife, Ibeth, scanned the congregation she said to prepare for about 30 people. Cheryl decided to pour juice for 35 and began to worry when she saw that every person present that day was participating. She too scanned the crowd and realized there wouldn’t be enough to go around. However, God who had been taking care of all the details for us stepped in again and when the plate with juice cups was returned to the front of the church Cheryl was amazed to see that there was one juice cup remaining. I would like to add that I was sitting at the back of the small church taking photos and I witnessed one person who started to take a cup and then chose to decline the juice. The tray, if everyone had participated, held the exact number of cups needed.
A final example Cheryl cited was that somehow each devotional, morning and evening, fit with whatever was going on at that time. For her, it confirmed again that God was in control of every aspect of our mission trip.
May God bless you through Cheryl’s testimony,
Lynda
Hebrews 10:23 “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.”
Psalm 119:89-90 “Your word, O Lord, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens. Your faithfulness continues through all generations; you established the earth, and it endures.”
Healing Hearts
As you may recall from earlier blog posts, two people were murdered down at the river while we were in Peñitas. It was a tragedy that stunned all of us, but most especially the families of the victims. They left behind many grieving family members.
Pastor Chuc began visiting the family on a daily basis if I have translated his emails correctly. He conducted the funeral services and even began Bible studies with interested family members. It is no easy task to visit people in Pastor Chuc's area. Much of the time it involves at a minimum a long drive on winding, unmaintained country roads. And for many people, it involves a boat ride, horseback, or even wading through the river.
Here is a picture Pastor Chuc recently sent us. The people in the boat are church members visiting with the family members of the deceased.
Please keep the people of Peñitas lifted up in prayer. And Pastor Chuc and his wife, Ibeth, as well.
Lamentations 3:31-33 "For men are not cast off by the Lord forever. Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love. For he does not willingly bring affliction or grief to the children of men."
2 Corinthians 4:16 "Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day."
Jeremiah 29:13 "And you shall seek me, and find me, when you shall search for me with all your heart."
God bless,
Lynda
Pastor Chuc began visiting the family on a daily basis if I have translated his emails correctly. He conducted the funeral services and even began Bible studies with interested family members. It is no easy task to visit people in Pastor Chuc's area. Much of the time it involves at a minimum a long drive on winding, unmaintained country roads. And for many people, it involves a boat ride, horseback, or even wading through the river.
Here is a picture Pastor Chuc recently sent us. The people in the boat are church members visiting with the family members of the deceased.
Please keep the people of Peñitas lifted up in prayer. And Pastor Chuc and his wife, Ibeth, as well.
Lamentations 3:31-33 "For men are not cast off by the Lord forever. Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love. For he does not willingly bring affliction or grief to the children of men."
2 Corinthians 4:16 "Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day."
Jeremiah 29:13 "And you shall seek me, and find me, when you shall search for me with all your heart."
God bless,
Lynda
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Doug's Testimony
Doug reported that it was a privilege to lead the construction crew in building the church in Peñitas. The way everyone worked together was incredible and he felt blessed by the team’s unity (at the end of the trip the team agreed that unity was the one word which described the entire mission trip).
We were the first group in Mexico to finish the One-Day Church frame in one day. Doug feels it is because of the perfect mix of people, skills, and temperaments and that the team before us (working in Corozal) shared with him what they would do differently if given the chance.
Line blocks were another example of God’s hand directing this team. While shopping here in Anchorage for some construction supplies we would need in Peñitas, Doug felt impressed to buy line blocks although he wasn’t even sure what they were used for or if we would need them. It turned out that they were a vital component in helping to make sure each row of blocks was level. God answered the need before we even knew there was one and it would be confirmed time and again throughout the mission trip.
Doug saw God’s hand in everything—from who came on the trip, to which town we went to, what date we choose for the trip, and the specific number of people on the trip. As team leaders we were at times frustrated with the details, but kept praying for God to lead us. He did just that and as the trip unfolded we were all amazed at how wonderful His plans were and how perfectly everything and everyone fit together. Doug said: “It was a blessing to see how the Lord put the entire trip together from start to finish”.
We were the first group in Mexico to finish the One-Day Church frame in one day. Doug feels it is because of the perfect mix of people, skills, and temperaments and that the team before us (working in Corozal) shared with him what they would do differently if given the chance.
Line blocks were another example of God’s hand directing this team. While shopping here in Anchorage for some construction supplies we would need in Peñitas, Doug felt impressed to buy line blocks although he wasn’t even sure what they were used for or if we would need them. It turned out that they were a vital component in helping to make sure each row of blocks was level. God answered the need before we even knew there was one and it would be confirmed time and again throughout the mission trip.
Doug saw God’s hand in everything—from who came on the trip, to which town we went to, what date we choose for the trip, and the specific number of people on the trip. As team leaders we were at times frustrated with the details, but kept praying for God to lead us. He did just that and as the trip unfolded we were all amazed at how wonderful His plans were and how perfectly everything and everyone fit together. Doug said: “It was a blessing to see how the Lord put the entire trip together from start to finish”.
Spiritual Report
I’d like to share a story with you that reminded me, in part, of team Northern Lights in Mexico. Two men were riding a bicycle built for two when they came to a big steep hill. It took a great deal of struggle for the men to complete what proved to be a very stiff climb. When they got to the top the man in front turned to the other and said, “Boy, that sure was a hard climb.” The fellow in back replied, “Yes, and if I hadn’t kept the brakes on all the way we would certainly have rolled down backwards!”
James and I were blessed by 15 other team members who pedaled as hard as they could throughout the entire mission trip—even through torrential downpours, sickness, and injury. One of the participants noted that we had an easy team to lead our first time out. And for that I say: “Praise God!”
I had the opportunity to lead the group in twice daily devotionals that focused on our relationship with God and our relationship with the people God places in our life. After the last devotional in Plan de Ayala, I asked the group to define our mission trip with one word. That word was ‘unity’. Unity--It not only defines the interactions among the team members, but also our relationship with God and our fellow believers in Mexico.
A.W. Tozer in The Pursuit of God said: “Has it ever occurred to you that one hundred pianos all tuned to the same fork are automatically tuned to each other? They are of one accord by being tuned, not to each other, but to another standard to which each one must individually bow. So one hundred worshipers meeting together, each one looking away to Christ, are in heart nearer to each other than they could possibly be, were they to become ‘unity’ conscious and turn their eyes away from God to strive for closer fellowship.”
The Northern Lights worked well both as a mission team and with our new friends in Mexico because we have a common goal: to be ambassadors for Christ. Each one of us has a growing relationship with Christ Jesus and a desire to do His will that, just like the tuning of the pianos to a single tuning fork, brought us together in unity.
Philippians 2:1-2 (NIV version) talks about imitating the humility of Christ. It says: If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.”
We can find that purpose defined in: John 17:20-23 where Jesus prays for all believers: "My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.
God was at work changing hearts long before Pastor Kack asked James and me to lead a team on a mission trip. The Lord was working to change our character to be ready for mission work and to instill in us a love of missions. God worked through us as we shared this new passion with you.
Isaiah 65:24 states that “Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking will I hear.”. The people of Peñitas had been praying for a long time that they could reach souls for Christ and build a new church to house them in. They did their part by praying, reaching out to their neighbors, collecting money for construction supplies, and by submitting a request to Maranatha to help them build a church. Simultaneously God was working in the hearts of the people in Peñitas (to receive the Good News) and in the hearts of people like you and me--from the United States, Australia, Canada, and Peru (to be Christ’s ambassadors).
While the team was in Mexico we learned about a couple named Juan and Brenda. Their story shows how God works in the hearts of the believer and unbeliever alike. Juan and Brenda were living together and had an 8 month old son named Juan, Jr. Juan is not an Adventist, but his mother is--and as a mother myself I can guarantee she is praying for Juan! Brenda was an Adventist that has been disfellowshipped for her lifestyle choices.
Juan is a wealthy man by that area’s standards and owns a lot of land. He felt led to donate the land that the Peñitas church was built on. Here are some other things Juan felt “led” to do: he stopped by to watch construction, came by with Brenda and Juan Jr to share dinner with the team one night, and came to church services. He made two interesting remarks: first that it would be a nice church to get married in and secondly that he plans on building a house on the piece of land next door so it would be easy to walk to church. Is there any doubt that the Holy Spirit is at work in Peñitas?
O’Malley—you showed your Christian unity by supporting the Mexico mission trip. Out of your love for Christ you gave towards His work in Mexico and here is a list of some of the things you gave: your time, prayers, financial support, words of encouragement to the leaders and other team members, donations of delicious foods for both our Mexican dinner and bake sale, bed sheets, children’s felts and felt board for Sabbath school, and Bibles, hymnals and Children’s devotionals through a generous donation by the Pathfinders organization. Team Northern Lights and the people of Plan de Ayala and Peñitas offer you a sincere thank you for the love of Christ you showed us through your actions.
I’d like to share another example of God at work before our need. I asked for a donation of bed sheets to use as privacy curtains on the windows of the school where we were to stay in Mexico. We were housed, at the last minute, at the church instead. All windows in the Sabbath school rooms except two had curtains on them already. The weather turned colder and rainy so we were very cold especially at night. We were grateful to have the extra bed sheets to keep us warm at night. When we left Mexico, we gave money to a local woman to launder the sheets before donating them to their local Dorcas association.
O’Malley also sponsored a Bible Worker by the name of Israel Torres Ramirez. On the last Sabbath we worshipped with the Penitas church, Israel awarded Bibles to 9 children and 1 adult who had completed their Bible studies with him.
Israel also wrote a letter that he would like me to share with you (see letter below).
After initially reading Israel’s letter, my husband spoke to Pastor Chuc about it. The pastor felt that Israel’s talents would be best used at this time by employing him to help with the reaping series coming up February 27 – March 6. So we gave Pastor Chuc the remaining funds from our Bible Worker fund to keep Israel working for the Lord for another 1-1/2 to 2 months.
James and I are so blessed to have been given this awesome opportunity to serve the Lord. Our faith has been deepened by seeing how intricately the Lord brought everything together. And He’s not done yet…the Lord’s work continues and He will call each one of us again to His service. It might be a call to serve on foreign soil or it could be a call to serve Him right here in Anchorage, AK.
I have made a commitment to make 2010 the year of obedience to God’s call--wherever that may lead me. Where you are, right now, if you feel the Lord calling you please bow your head and whisper a prayer of commitment to be obedient to His call--wherever He may ask you to serve.
Privledged to serve,
Lynda
Israel's Letter to the Northern Lights and Church Family:
Greetings from the Torres family in Chiapas, Mexico to my Alaska friends and your church family!
I am writing to thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve God by giving Bible studies in northern Chiapas, the district of Plan de Ayala.
Thank you for fulfilling my dream—working for God full-time. Thank you for the 3 months of salary. I am blessed to still have 25 days to harvest souls for God.
There are now 20 people who are studying about the faith of Jesus. In addition, there are 6 more who are married but will need to change their marital status before they proceed any further.
I have a wife and 5 children to support. We spent a happy year working for God. We hope God gives us the opportunity again someday to serve others.
I would like to continue this great work—if my services have been useful. I am willing to devote more time to this ministry. I am a wage laborer and have a low income. I would need continued support if I was to continue this missionary work. Also there are items I would like to request that I could use in my missionary work: a laptop computer and a projector. This will help me give Bible studies and sermons. If you help me, God will magnify it that much more.
I thank God that in 2006 God used me to bring 89 souls to the foot of the cross and they were baptized. I have also helped start 11 church companies and baptized another 282 souls for Christ. My family has a string band and I play the accordion during services.
I am your brother in Christ,
Israel Torres Ramirez
(I would like to add that we were informed by the mission office that he is the best Bible worker in the area- Lynda).
Evidence of God's continued work in Penitas:
2 of Israel's Bible students, Juan Antonio and Miguelina, were recently baptized! Here are their photos:
James and I were blessed by 15 other team members who pedaled as hard as they could throughout the entire mission trip—even through torrential downpours, sickness, and injury. One of the participants noted that we had an easy team to lead our first time out. And for that I say: “Praise God!”
I had the opportunity to lead the group in twice daily devotionals that focused on our relationship with God and our relationship with the people God places in our life. After the last devotional in Plan de Ayala, I asked the group to define our mission trip with one word. That word was ‘unity’. Unity--It not only defines the interactions among the team members, but also our relationship with God and our fellow believers in Mexico.
A.W. Tozer in The Pursuit of God said: “Has it ever occurred to you that one hundred pianos all tuned to the same fork are automatically tuned to each other? They are of one accord by being tuned, not to each other, but to another standard to which each one must individually bow. So one hundred worshipers meeting together, each one looking away to Christ, are in heart nearer to each other than they could possibly be, were they to become ‘unity’ conscious and turn their eyes away from God to strive for closer fellowship.”
The Northern Lights worked well both as a mission team and with our new friends in Mexico because we have a common goal: to be ambassadors for Christ. Each one of us has a growing relationship with Christ Jesus and a desire to do His will that, just like the tuning of the pianos to a single tuning fork, brought us together in unity.
Philippians 2:1-2 (NIV version) talks about imitating the humility of Christ. It says: If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.”
We can find that purpose defined in: John 17:20-23 where Jesus prays for all believers: "My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.
God was at work changing hearts long before Pastor Kack asked James and me to lead a team on a mission trip. The Lord was working to change our character to be ready for mission work and to instill in us a love of missions. God worked through us as we shared this new passion with you.
Isaiah 65:24 states that “Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking will I hear.”. The people of Peñitas had been praying for a long time that they could reach souls for Christ and build a new church to house them in. They did their part by praying, reaching out to their neighbors, collecting money for construction supplies, and by submitting a request to Maranatha to help them build a church. Simultaneously God was working in the hearts of the people in Peñitas (to receive the Good News) and in the hearts of people like you and me--from the United States, Australia, Canada, and Peru (to be Christ’s ambassadors).
While the team was in Mexico we learned about a couple named Juan and Brenda. Their story shows how God works in the hearts of the believer and unbeliever alike. Juan and Brenda were living together and had an 8 month old son named Juan, Jr. Juan is not an Adventist, but his mother is--and as a mother myself I can guarantee she is praying for Juan! Brenda was an Adventist that has been disfellowshipped for her lifestyle choices.
Juan is a wealthy man by that area’s standards and owns a lot of land. He felt led to donate the land that the Peñitas church was built on. Here are some other things Juan felt “led” to do: he stopped by to watch construction, came by with Brenda and Juan Jr to share dinner with the team one night, and came to church services. He made two interesting remarks: first that it would be a nice church to get married in and secondly that he plans on building a house on the piece of land next door so it would be easy to walk to church. Is there any doubt that the Holy Spirit is at work in Peñitas?
O’Malley—you showed your Christian unity by supporting the Mexico mission trip. Out of your love for Christ you gave towards His work in Mexico and here is a list of some of the things you gave: your time, prayers, financial support, words of encouragement to the leaders and other team members, donations of delicious foods for both our Mexican dinner and bake sale, bed sheets, children’s felts and felt board for Sabbath school, and Bibles, hymnals and Children’s devotionals through a generous donation by the Pathfinders organization. Team Northern Lights and the people of Plan de Ayala and Peñitas offer you a sincere thank you for the love of Christ you showed us through your actions.
I’d like to share another example of God at work before our need. I asked for a donation of bed sheets to use as privacy curtains on the windows of the school where we were to stay in Mexico. We were housed, at the last minute, at the church instead. All windows in the Sabbath school rooms except two had curtains on them already. The weather turned colder and rainy so we were very cold especially at night. We were grateful to have the extra bed sheets to keep us warm at night. When we left Mexico, we gave money to a local woman to launder the sheets before donating them to their local Dorcas association.
O’Malley also sponsored a Bible Worker by the name of Israel Torres Ramirez. On the last Sabbath we worshipped with the Penitas church, Israel awarded Bibles to 9 children and 1 adult who had completed their Bible studies with him.
Israel also wrote a letter that he would like me to share with you (see letter below).
After initially reading Israel’s letter, my husband spoke to Pastor Chuc about it. The pastor felt that Israel’s talents would be best used at this time by employing him to help with the reaping series coming up February 27 – March 6. So we gave Pastor Chuc the remaining funds from our Bible Worker fund to keep Israel working for the Lord for another 1-1/2 to 2 months.
James and I are so blessed to have been given this awesome opportunity to serve the Lord. Our faith has been deepened by seeing how intricately the Lord brought everything together. And He’s not done yet…the Lord’s work continues and He will call each one of us again to His service. It might be a call to serve on foreign soil or it could be a call to serve Him right here in Anchorage, AK.
I have made a commitment to make 2010 the year of obedience to God’s call--wherever that may lead me. Where you are, right now, if you feel the Lord calling you please bow your head and whisper a prayer of commitment to be obedient to His call--wherever He may ask you to serve.
Privledged to serve,
Lynda
Israel's Letter to the Northern Lights and Church Family:
Greetings from the Torres family in Chiapas, Mexico to my Alaska friends and your church family!
I am writing to thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve God by giving Bible studies in northern Chiapas, the district of Plan de Ayala.
Thank you for fulfilling my dream—working for God full-time. Thank you for the 3 months of salary. I am blessed to still have 25 days to harvest souls for God.
There are now 20 people who are studying about the faith of Jesus. In addition, there are 6 more who are married but will need to change their marital status before they proceed any further.
I have a wife and 5 children to support. We spent a happy year working for God. We hope God gives us the opportunity again someday to serve others.
I would like to continue this great work—if my services have been useful. I am willing to devote more time to this ministry. I am a wage laborer and have a low income. I would need continued support if I was to continue this missionary work. Also there are items I would like to request that I could use in my missionary work: a laptop computer and a projector. This will help me give Bible studies and sermons. If you help me, God will magnify it that much more.
I thank God that in 2006 God used me to bring 89 souls to the foot of the cross and they were baptized. I have also helped start 11 church companies and baptized another 282 souls for Christ. My family has a string band and I play the accordion during services.
I am your brother in Christ,
Israel Torres Ramirez
(I would like to add that we were informed by the mission office that he is the best Bible worker in the area- Lynda).
Evidence of God's continued work in Penitas:
2 of Israel's Bible students, Juan Antonio and Miguelina, were recently baptized! Here are their photos:
Thursday, January 28, 2010
More Stories to Come
Good Morning Blog Followers!
I just wanted to give you a quick note that more blog entries will be coming next week. Our team is currently gearing up for our Reporting Back Service to our congregation. I have been pouring over a thousand photos; selecting and editing the best! During the service this week we will have time for each participant to share a brief story about how God has been working in their life—particularly through the mission trip. I hope to post these stories along with additional photos for each team member next week.
God bless,
Lynda
“Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering for He who promised is faithful.” Hebrews 10:23
I just wanted to give you a quick note that more blog entries will be coming next week. Our team is currently gearing up for our Reporting Back Service to our congregation. I have been pouring over a thousand photos; selecting and editing the best! During the service this week we will have time for each participant to share a brief story about how God has been working in their life—particularly through the mission trip. I hope to post these stories along with additional photos for each team member next week.
God bless,
Lynda
“Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering for He who promised is faithful.” Hebrews 10:23
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Preview of a Finished One-Day Church in Mexico
Below is a photo of a church, but it is not the church we just built in Peñitas. It is however a completely finished One-Day Church in the general vicinity of Peñitas.
Concerning the church we just helped build in Peñitas, part of our team stayed after we left to finish pouring the remaining three sides of the sidewalks surrounding the structure. Later the national team will stucco the building inside and outside, install the doors and window grates, and then paint the building. When it is finished Maranatha and the Peñitas congregation will have a dedication ceremony.
The Peñitas church will be a beautiful structure set in lush, rolling ranching land that can be glimpsed from the road as people travel from destination to destination. It will be a place that people can come to worship God and a place to go out from to carry the Good News to the community at large.
Concerning the church we just helped build in Peñitas, part of our team stayed after we left to finish pouring the remaining three sides of the sidewalks surrounding the structure. Later the national team will stucco the building inside and outside, install the doors and window grates, and then paint the building. When it is finished Maranatha and the Peñitas congregation will have a dedication ceremony.
The Peñitas church will be a beautiful structure set in lush, rolling ranching land that can be glimpsed from the road as people travel from destination to destination. It will be a place that people can come to worship God and a place to go out from to carry the Good News to the community at large.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Whatsoever you ask in prayer...
Matthew 21:22 says--"And all things, whatsoever you ask in prayer, believing, you shall receive."
The Bible worker, Israel Torres Ramirez, provided us with a list of people in Peñitas who are interested in (or currently) studying the Bible with him. Here are their names so that you can pray for each one personally:
1. Rene
2. Migulina
3. Abel
4. Juan Altonio
5. Juan Carlos
6. Jairo
7. Maria
8. Nohemi
9. Jose
10. Juan Altunar
11. Marta
12. Manuel
13. Miguel
14. Carlos
15. Yaquelin
16. Raquel
17. Catalina
18. Cresencio
19. Yecazard
I have not included their full names since I do not have their permission to post them online. However, I have no doubt that these people would be happy to know that you are lifting them up in prayer. Someday-soon-you will have the wonderful opportunity to meet them face to face!
Lynda
The Bible worker, Israel Torres Ramirez, provided us with a list of people in Peñitas who are interested in (or currently) studying the Bible with him. Here are their names so that you can pray for each one personally:
1. Rene
2. Migulina
3. Abel
4. Juan Altonio
5. Juan Carlos
6. Jairo
7. Maria
8. Nohemi
9. Jose
10. Juan Altunar
11. Marta
12. Manuel
13. Miguel
14. Carlos
15. Yaquelin
16. Raquel
17. Catalina
18. Cresencio
19. Yecazard
I have not included their full names since I do not have their permission to post them online. However, I have no doubt that these people would be happy to know that you are lifting them up in prayer. Someday-soon-you will have the wonderful opportunity to meet them face to face!
Lynda
10 people studying with Israel Torres Ramirez received Bibles on January 9, 2010:
The Great Commission
"Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:16-20
It's not unusual to have a baptism on a mission trip--it would be surprising not to have at least one. The Bible worker in Peñitas had a person who had been studying the Bible with him and was ready for baptism. It was scheduled for a Sabbath when Team Northern Lights was there, but had to be postponed because the local pastor was called away that day.
The team rejoiced that a person was ready to make a public commitment of their faith, but disappointed that they didn't get to witness it. It is always thrilling to watch a baptism. But God was at work in another very surprising way!
On our last Sabbath in Peñitas we had a foot-washing and communion service with our new friends. As I've mentioned before, it is the custom in their culture for only baptized members in good standing to be able to participate in this part of the service. I was informed that one of our own team members was not baptized. I was surprised, but that's due my own assumptions that an adult would already have made this event part of their Christian walk. In actuality, the only two requirements we had put forth to be on the team were a desire to be obedient to the Lord's call to do His work and to be respectful and supportive of our beliefs whether you held the same beliefs or not.
Later, following communion, we casually discussed having this person baptized while in Mexico. For a number of very practical reasons we decided against it, but I suggested the team member follow up on it after returning home if that was the desire of their heart.
I was thrilled today to receive confirmation that our team member has met with the Pastor and is ready for baptism! I cannot begin to describe how much this means to our team! It also reinforces my belief and desire that God will not only work through us while on a mission trip, but He will continue to do so after we return.
His word is the foundation for my belief: Philippians 1:3-6 "I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."
This team member has touched my heart already. I can't wait to witness this special occasion next Sabbath.
Come. Come rejoice with Team Northern Lights and all the angels in heaven!
Lynda
It's not unusual to have a baptism on a mission trip--it would be surprising not to have at least one. The Bible worker in Peñitas had a person who had been studying the Bible with him and was ready for baptism. It was scheduled for a Sabbath when Team Northern Lights was there, but had to be postponed because the local pastor was called away that day.
The team rejoiced that a person was ready to make a public commitment of their faith, but disappointed that they didn't get to witness it. It is always thrilling to watch a baptism. But God was at work in another very surprising way!
On our last Sabbath in Peñitas we had a foot-washing and communion service with our new friends. As I've mentioned before, it is the custom in their culture for only baptized members in good standing to be able to participate in this part of the service. I was informed that one of our own team members was not baptized. I was surprised, but that's due my own assumptions that an adult would already have made this event part of their Christian walk. In actuality, the only two requirements we had put forth to be on the team were a desire to be obedient to the Lord's call to do His work and to be respectful and supportive of our beliefs whether you held the same beliefs or not.
Later, following communion, we casually discussed having this person baptized while in Mexico. For a number of very practical reasons we decided against it, but I suggested the team member follow up on it after returning home if that was the desire of their heart.
I was thrilled today to receive confirmation that our team member has met with the Pastor and is ready for baptism! I cannot begin to describe how much this means to our team! It also reinforces my belief and desire that God will not only work through us while on a mission trip, but He will continue to do so after we return.
His word is the foundation for my belief: Philippians 1:3-6 "I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."
This team member has touched my heart already. I can't wait to witness this special occasion next Sabbath.
Come. Come rejoice with Team Northern Lights and all the angels in heaven!
Lynda
Friday, January 22, 2010
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