Tuesday, June 2, 2015

Today: a challenge and a teaser

As I am in the midst of typing up the Chiapas Report and prepping for the Mechanic team to come here tonight, I find myself reflecting.

This past year has been filled with some pretty amazing experiences.  There truly have been highs and lows and we have been in awe and wonder at various times.

There have been times that will truly stick to my soul.  Today I have a feeling will be one of those days.  Normally, the times that "stick" have been highlights, times of joy.  Today is not going to be a joyful day....yet anyway.

This morning the plan is for myself, Hermano Jesus, and Yohana to head to Cajagualten to visit with 7 kids.  Dad passed away a few years ago, mom just passed away, the oldest sister (18) just had her gall bladder and appendix removed.  They are hurting and alone.  We are going to investigate the support system, health condition, and determine next steps.  This village is one that we (PBM) built in from 2006 until 2008.  This was also during the early years of forming the core discipleship programs, so today, it is still on the weak side.  We are not sure what we will find.

Words, English or Spanish, will not bring the comfort that is needed today.  Only Hope!  Even if we go to sit Shiva with them, we go.  It will be about a 50 minute drive.

I remember the years as a youth pastor in the States.  I would always carry with me the motto: "I can't take a student to a place Spiritually that I am not willing to go myself".  In other words:  I can't bring Hope in Jesus Christ, if I do not have hope in Jesus Christ.  Thank you Lord for the Hope that you have deposited in me and for the Hope that carries me......may it be shared today and transcend any and all cultures.  Why?  Because our ultimate joy will come, on that Glorious Day...even if that day is not today...it leads to Hope in the day to come!



~Justin


PS-  Here is a teaser from Chiapas....what happens when the Spirit is moving among 20 pastors who are longing for more of the Spirit.....they were tired and felt alone when they came.  They left filled and solidified!

remember this is not a culture where guys normally hug!



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