Tuesday, June 21, 2016

May Update



 
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.