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| A wonderful melting pot representing Cora, Huichol, Tepehuan, Mexicanero, Mexican, and American cultures! |
Dear Friends,
What a great month! So many positive developments and
encouragements I scarcely know where to start. So here goes from the present
working backwards. Collette, Daniela, and I are safely back in Nebraska after a
smooth four-day drive. Please pray for a host Christian family to receive
Daniela as she engages with English and High School studies here in the US.
Collette and I are always reminded as we return home that we are so very blessed
as a nation. Yet
so few understand, or are simply unwilling to share as God intends us to share.
We are certain that the seventeen-member short term mission team
from The Crossing in Gothenburg Nebraska have a greater understanding! They
brought energy, focus, and lots of joy in Christ as they tackled some very
challenging painting and fence building projects that brightened and secured
the school buildings and grounds – Praise the Lord! Joining forces with Jay
Tenbrink and the twelve-member team from Centro Cristiano Church we cross
cultured shoulder to shoulder as Cora, Huichol, Tepehuan, Mexicanero, Spanish,
and English languages and cultures bubbled up during work, devotions, and fun
time! We heard many of the American team reflect upon the amazing joy that came
from their new friends who possessed so little material wealth. Thank God for
people willing to get out of their comfort zones both to serve and receive.
(For lots of pictures of the people and projects go to www.intothemountains.org and
click on the link to Jay’s website and blog.)
Our year living at the school has been both very challenging and
rewarding. We
have watched Santos and the Association cope with threats and oppression from
local Catholic leadership, indifference and incompetence from some Government
offices, and intentional political intervention from both. Yet the school
continues to prevail strengthened solely through faith in Christ. Good progress, though
much yet to be invested to carry forward this work. We are thankful and
encouraged by the many hands and hearts coming forth from friends in Mexico. Please pray with us
that His guidance and provision continue to strengthen the school, the leaders,
and teachers. We treasure the prayers and financial assistance we have received
from you, and hope to personally connect with you while we are back in the US.
Padre Pascual said “We teach the students to pray, study, and work. The fun comes
naturally!” We have experienced God in so many ways this past year at the
school, many rough and challenging moments, many more brimming with contentment
and joy in the Lord. We
praise God, and you the body of Christ, for guiding, helping, and encouraging
this beautiful work in the far away mountains of Mexico. Jesus is speaking
through His Word, His Holy Spirit, His Body of Believers. The lives of His
children are being saved.
Thank you
for being light in a dark and troubled world. “The light shines in
the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:5
Peace
and grace be with you.
Dios te bendiga.
