October Trip to The Village

Front View of the Church in Santa Rosa el Rodeo

 Our trip back to Guatemala was rewarding and exciting. The weather was horrendous and many Guatemalans lost their lives why we made this visit. Apparently, there was a hurricane that made landfall from the Pacific. Besides the horrible wind and rain, the trip was one of my favorite times visiting the country. There was a small group of us from Bethel that went for ten days. The group consisted of Nick Meinhardt, Crystal West, Cadence Robinson, Jennifer Robinson, and myself. We left on October 8^th and returned on the 17^th.

We went down to hoping to accomplish three different tasks. First, we wanted to witness the first baptism service of some of the church members. Unfortunately, the candidates had not finished their discipleship requirements and the services were postponed. Second, we wanted to check on the church plant and the families in Santa Rosa el Rodeo. Third, we wanted to prepare Christmas gifts for the children of the village.

I will never forget the first day that we arrived in the village during this trip in October. We arrived in Guatemala on Saturday, and then we went to the village for church Sunday afternoon. We could barely open the doors of Max’s van when we arrived in the village. There was a mob of seventy kids screaming our names and trying to give hugs. We were excited to see all of the children and anxious to see how the church has progressed.

Initially, I was stunned to see the church property. I was beautiful. When we left in August there was so much left undone. However, the land was clean and gardens were planted around the front of the property. Those gorgeous plants couldn’t contain the beauty of a healthy church that we soon discovered.

I was shocked to see how well the church was doing! Bro. Max is doing a great job overseeing the church and making sure that everything is running smoothly. Pastor Guillermo and Erica are doing a great job of ministering to the people in the village. Their family moved out to the property in September and is trying to readjust to the new living conditions. They have truly sacrificed in order to minister in this area.

Currently, Erica conducts Bible School three days a week for the children. She does an amazing job. The kids are learning about three to five passages a day and then recall other verses from memory. Erica has a group of ladies that volunteers to help everyday. Each Sunday, they have children’s church behind the building during the main worship service.

The church is becoming very organized as well. The church meets every Sunday morning for worship and every Thursday night for ladies Bible study. I noticed a list that is posted that contains various women who have volunteered to clean the building. I also learned that various men are trying to keep the church property clean on the outside as well. It is exciting to see how far this church has progressed in such a little time.

The Team in Front of "Bags of Love"

Christmas gifts for the children were one of the main reasons that we made this trip. The concept was based on the “Christmas Shoeboxes” of Samaritan’s Purse. Unfortunately, Samaritan’s Purse does not currently give presents in this village. Jennifer had a desire in her heart to see this done in the village that we spent our entire summer. So we prayed and raised support to make 100 gifts for the children.

Our biggest problem was trying to decide how to back the gifts. When we went to the market we found some strong plastic-weaved bags. So we decided to call it “Bolsas de Amor” or “Bags of Love” in English. We bought items for 40 boys’ bags and 60 girls’ bags. Every bag contained various boy or girl toys, girls’ makeup, girls’ jewelry, soap, paper, pens, pencils, and a pair of shoes. We are so excited to think that 100 children will receive a pair of shoes for Christmas. I am sure that Christmas is going to be amazing for the children of Santa Rosa el Rodeo. I pray that God will use those gifts to show how much he loves them and will provide for them. I certainly wish I could see those kids when they receive these presents.

During the trip we also learned of some specific ways to continue to minister in the village of Santa Rosa el Rodeo. Here is a short detailed list:

            1. Feed the Children: We would like to start providing a hot meal for the children that attend Bible School during those three days of the week. In order to provide the food we need 40 people to donate $25 per month. Bethel Baptist has a separate missions account designated for the ministry in Guatemala. Every donation made will be a tax-deductible gift.

            2. Medical Clinic: In January, we would like to start a medical clinic that will be                         open once a week inside of the church, probably on Saturday mornings. We will need to only cover the supplies and nurse that will work the clinic.  

            3. Prayer:        Pray for Pastor Guillermo and Erica

                                    Pray that we will continue to have the funds to support the ministry

                                    Pray that God will continue to transform the hearts of the people

The New Chairs Provided by the Children of Bethel Baptist

The trip was amazing! We are thankful for Max and his family and the way that they showed love to us while we visited Guatemala. It was so rewarding to see how God is already transforming this village. Thank you for everyone that made this trip possible. I want to specifically thank Nick, Crystal and Jennifer for going on this trip. We had an amazing time and memorable moments (eating meet from the market). I am honored that you made sacrifices for this trip.

(We will post pictures of the children receiving the Christmas presents on the blog)

Transformation

The Farmers at Almolonga

Transformation. The thought and action of something being transformed for the better can truly be remarkable. The meaning of the word is, “a complete change, usually into something with an improved appearance or usefulness.” The first time that I visited the village in Guatemala, Santa Rosa el Rodeo, I immediately thought about the concept of transformation.

Santa Rosa el Rodeo is between two heavily populated areas. The colonial town of Antigua is towards the East and the city of Escuintla in further West. However, the village has more of the characteristics of a country area. It is very small and very populated.

The village has three roads that intersect with the main road. The first road or “first street” is where the church is located. It is known as the home of all the criminals. Most residents conclude that the drug dealers, prostitutes, and thieves live on this street. It is amazing that God decided that this is the place and exact street to start the church.

In the village there is a social cycle that takes place. The men of the village have very little work. They either work in a rock-yard or sugarcane field. The lack of work could be the reason for some of the conditions found among the people. Many men are alcoholics and physically abusing spouses seem to be very common.

The village is dirty. There is trash everywhere and it seems to point to a deeper condition that exists among the people. I believe the physical trash seems to point to the spiritual clutter that exists in the hearts of the people. The village needs to experience transformation. I believe that God is powerful and his transforming power can change this area for generations. 

Recently, a friend we met in Guatemala, Vivian Solares, shared a story with me. The story was about another village in Guatemala that characteristically resembled the village that we have been working. The following story is about a village that has experienced the transforming power of God:

"Almolonga, is a village in Guatemala with an encouraging story of transformation. Before being                        visited by God’s power, it was a place overrun by fear, demons, poverty, idolatry, and drunkenness. The main feature was the alcohol-induced slumber experienced by many of the inhabitants as a result of serving an idol called Maximon. This perverse idol was a figure created to connect with the Guatemalans by highlighting the smoking habits, liquor drinking and immorality of this creation.

Sign in Almolonga that reads, "Jesus is Lord of Almolonga"

God called a humble man, Riscajehe Generated, to fight against the power of darkness found in this village. Because of this man’s obedience, people began to experience the liberation and transforming power of Jesus Christ. It has been reported that 90% of the 18,000 inhabitants surrendered their lives to Christ.

Since the power of God began to transform the community, the crime has had a marked decline. The police chief testified, “Currently, we usually have 20 to 30 people a month in jail.” Before, crowds would gather just to witness the nightly drunken fights. The police chief wouldn’t have any rest. Before, the community had four prisons and they were not sufficient to accommodate all the prisoners.

Today, things are different. People have changed their attitude; the last prison was closed in 1988. Remodeled and is now called the ‘Hall of Honor,’ which is a place for weddings, receptions and do community events.

In addition to the decline in crime, a great social change has occurred. There is an absence of prostitutes and bars. The former bars have been converted into small shops with new names such as ‘Little Jerusalem’ and ‘Jehovah Jireh.’ Before the intervention of God, most men were alcoholics and their homes were untidy. Neglect and physical abuse were rampant. It was very common for men to beat their wives, sometimes with sticks. Today, there is more communication between families and the abuse has declined. The unemployment, beggars, drunks sleeping on sidewalk and other negative things have declined significantly due to the transformation experienced in this village.

Also, there has been an economic renewal. A phenomenon has occurred agriculturally in this village. The celery, cauliflower, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, radishes and other vegetables are incredibly larger in size that those grown in the surrounding villages. Agriculturalist from the United States has visited the location to study scientific principles that have allowed the production of better crops. The only logical conclusion is that God has blessed their crops and the farmers of Almolonga. Today, the people are selling vegetables in all of Guatemala, and exporting them to other nations.

Abnormally Large Carrots in Almolonga

The only logical conclusion is that this village has truly experience the transforming power of God. God has transformed the lives of people, the social influences, and the economy of this village."

My prayer is that the village of Santa Rosa el Rodeo can experience dramatic transformation. I long to see the people to come into a relationship with Christ and allow him to transform them through discipleship. I pray that God will transform the men of this village. Provide jobs for them and teach them about stewardship. I pray that the relationship between men, women and children can be transformed. How amazing would it be if the village appeared clean with very little crime? The clean appearance would point to the clean hearts and desires of the people.

I ask you to join me in prayer for transformation in this village. We met a Canadian woman that worked in this village for twenty years. She has started two schools in this area. However, upon meeting her, she was very bitter. I later found that she was an atheist and a humanitarian. I believe that she was trying to bring transformation in her own power. The truth is that I would be bitter as well if I spent twenty years reaching out to those people without in change. However, I am confident that the transforming power of Christ can bring a change in this village. They need transformation like the story about Almolonga!

Final Thoughts From the Summer Trip

I would like to begin this post by offering up my apologies. I apologize because I should have published this update and message upon our return to Citronelle, Alabama back in August. However, I must be completely honest, it was hard to face the fact that we were leaving Guatemala. It was so hard coming to grip with reality that I didn’t want to reflect on our time there. The following post is a summary of the summer we spent in the country, and the current state of the village and church when we left in August.

The past 12 weeks have been the most memorable in my entire life. I have had amazing moments before then such as memories of my family, the day I accepted Christ, the day of my wedding, the day our first child was born and other moments. However, it has been overwhelming to experience a sustained period of time that has been so memorable.

First Meeting With Roof and Last Service Before We Left

I remember the Sunday morning in April of 2010 that we had a defining moment and felt a call to go to Guatemala and minister longer than a week. We didn’t know when, why, or how. This past January we moved back home to Citronelle and realized that the when would be a few months later in May. We focused that period of time to grow in our relationship with each other, our family, and most importantly with the Lord.

During that period of time, we saved and raised financial support for our trip. I remember one day telling Jennifer that we need to have ‘x’ amount of money in our bank account and ‘x’ amount of money in our Guatemala fund. When we left at the end of May, both accounts contained double the amount that I set. I am thankful that God honored our desire to serve him and blessed us more than we could imagine.

When we arrived in Guatemala, the reality hit us hard. What now? We knew that we were going to focus on a village that we visited the prior summer. We knew that the goal for this past summer was to start a church plant. We knew that the goal for the summer was to build a church for that plant. However, we were unsure how or where to start.

Upon reflection of our summer, I realize that many of our decisions are counterintuitive to the mindset and patterns of most Americans. We left our jobs, benefits and insurance in order to live in another country for almost three months. We had no future plan after the summer to ensure us a salary or insurance. We took a baby barely 9 months to a foreign place. We went to a place without being proficient in the language or another viable option to communicate with people. All of these decisions would be considered crazy. At times, I even thought we were crazy, but God provided for us in tremendous ways.

I am excited to see how God is working in this one remote location in a third world country. It makes you fall in love in a greater sense and strengthens your faith in God. It helps me understand that God cares for every person no matter how insignificant that they may seem.

Baptisms in the River

We left the children and families in Santa Rosa el Rodeo in Guatemala with so many mixed emotions. We are excited because today there is a church that meets every Sunday. We loved teaching the children of that village about Jesus Christ. We were overwhelmed to see how God ordained a church to be built in a specific location, and built a certain way. Finally, we feel sad! The previous emotion is the heaviest of all the other emotions that we feel.

Our sadness is a combination of various things heightened in this one moment. We are sad because we know there is so much more that needs to be done in this village. We want to go meet each family and begin to build relationships with them. We want to continue to see the children taught and brought up knowing the Lord and binding his commands to their hearts. We desire to see the church become more organized and taught how to disciple the people. In the midst of all these thoughts is the reality that we are traveling home.

I want to be honest. It has been an honor and privilege to live amongst and minister to the people of Guatemala. We want to thank so many people who have supported us and prayed for us. We want to thank the congregations of Bethel Baptist, Cornerstone Baptist, Toxey Baptist, and Calvart Baptist. We also want to thank our friends, family, prayer partners, and the people that have followed this blog. Finally, I want to thank Pastor Max of Guatemala. There is not enough words in our English language (nor Spanish) to ever describe the character, love, support, faith, and work ethic of this man. Without him, there would not have been a vision to plant a church among the people in this village. We are thankful for him and I pray that God will use his example to mold me and direct my life to serve God wholeheartedly.

I want to conclude by requesting you to continue remembering the people in Guatemala and pray for them continuously. I hope to continue updating this blog with updates on the church plant, the community of Santa Rosa el Rodeo, and Pastor Max’s family. Again, I apologize that it took so long to post these thoughts and emotions. Thank you once again for your prayers and support for our family. God Bless.

A Summary of Our Two Groups

Group Gathered Together Singing with the Children

The time has come and gone and the groups are no more. We have been living here for two months and have spent a majority of that time preparing for our groups. Now we are looking back and evaluating the time that we have spent here ministering to the people of Guatemala. The groups were amazing and I am proud to call each person that came my friends, my family, and my co-laborers in Christ.

I believe that the groups have made a greater impact this year than any other trip I have ever been a part. We were extremely busy and extremely tired but the trip to Guatemala was amazing. I think that the difference was that we focused all of our time and energy in one place, Santa Rosa el Rodeo. In past years, we were as busy, but our time was divided in multiple areas around Guatemala. This year we focused on one community and the difference was evident.

Our Group Throwing Blocks

This year, our groups poured out their lives like servants. I watched people love on children like they were their biological kids. I saw men and women remember names and minister to men, women, and children no matter how difficult or different someone acted. The amazing part was that each person had a certain group of kids that they ministered with. I was afraid that the loveable kids like Kevin, Freddie, Brenda, and Thelma’s kids would be the only kids ministered to because of their active personalities. Thankfully, I was wrong because it seemed like each kid was loved and ministered to by someone.

Building Planning Committee with Bro. Stan and Mr. Randy

Amazingly, God orchestrated the group like a conductor of a symphony. Each person entered into each week with a certain skill set physically and spiritually. Then God organized his servants and used them in harmony to minister to the village of Santa Rosa el Rodeo. Collectively, God used us to begin a work in this dark community in order to bring salvation and transformation. This village is known for its immorality and wickedness. A dark place filled with men without jobs that fill their time with drugs, alcohol, and abusive actions. I am excited to see how God will transform the people of this village.

Feeding the Village

The greatest highlight was to spend time with each person from our two groups. I appreciate how each of them supported us and loved on our baby. I know that God brought each person together in order to proclaim his glory in this dark village. This was confirmed one night when a new and dear friend joined us for supper.

After supper, Jennifer led us into worship as the group was joined together. While we were singing praise songs, my friend Vivian said that she heard God speak a message into her heart. She said that God told her, “The group does not need to worry about anything. I am the Lord and I am in control of everything. I know everything that they need and I will watch over the church in Santa Rosa el Rodeo. I have brought together different people with various skills to reach out and minister to my people, and I will use them to continue to grow this church.” After she heard that message, the groups began to share about the week. Vivian was overwhelmed when each person concluded that God brought together different people for the trip. She knew that she had accurately heard from God because Bro. Stan reminded us that we are the body and Jesus is the head. She told me later that she was weeping because of the message God gave her.

Dedicating Juan's House

I want to end this report by proclaiming, “How Great is Our God!” I will never forget the message that God shared with Vivian. I will cherish those words as a promise that God is not only in control, but also going to take care of this church. I will also cherish the memories that were created with so many people while we were serving the Lord. Let us continue to serve the Lord in families, jobs, schools, communities, and places in each of our lives. We need to strive to serve the Lord everyday with every breath! Go. Live. Love.

Ministering to the Children

Mrs. LizAnne Reading the Daily Bible Verse.

Melvin Reading the Bible Story

An obvious switch of authors now….you can always tell when it’s me, Jennifer, writing! It has been amazing to see the children of Rodeo open up, and learn. I remember the first day I pulled out my guitar, and sang “I’ve got the Joy, Joy, Joy, Joy”, and “ Jesus Loves Me”. Most just sat, stared, and listened. Then to hear them while the groups were here, especially the last day all the gringos were in the village, was a huge change! Now the children sing loud, clap, and just praise Jesus. It’s almost as though the whole world stops to hear them sing for those 10-15 minutes. The men working on the church, and people passing by just stop what they are doing to listen. It’s a beautiful sound.

The Children in Line for the Daily Cooked Meal

We also read a few stories daily from the children’s bible story book. I started off trying to read the stories to the children, but they would gather around me, correcting every word I messed up! So we usually choose 1 or 2 children to read the story. Last Sunday during church, Pastor Max asked for ladies to volunteer to help with teaching children after we are gone. There were about 7 ladies that stepped forward. The next day, at least ½ of them attended bible school, and assisted with reading the stories. Please pray for these ladies: that they will first teach their own children, then other children in Rodeo about God, His love, and salvation. A most precious sight that we witness almost daily, is that after we read the bible story, and move onto the craft for the day, there is always 1 or 2 children that would rather continue reading the bible story book. May we all thirst for God’s word as these children do.

Craft Time for the Children

While the groups were here, thanks to a few dedicated people on both teams, we were able to feed the children and men working on the church a hot lunch everyday we were in the village! It ranged from mashed potatoes, black beans and rice, to beef stew and chicken & dumplings. Even some of the village dogs lapped up the leftover juices in the bowls. This was a vision that Marvin and Pastor Irvin of Toxey Baptist had while preparing a few months ago.

And  let me tell you, as much candy that was passed out the past 2 weeks….we will need a dental clinic trip planned soon for Rodeo!

An Exciting Day of Worship

Group Gathered With the Children.

One of the greatest experiences in another country is worshiping the Lord among a different culture. This past Sunday marked our sixth worship service in Santa Rosa el Rodeo and it was another memorable day. Due to some extremely hard work on Saturday, we were able to have church inside the walls. The service was amazing and extremely hot without a roof.

There was a huge response from the village and the people filled up the service for the second straight week. I know that numbers don’t matter, but I think that the seventy plus people represented the way that the group ministered in the name of Jesus Christ. There were people that attended worship  directly because of our group loving on them during the week.

Personally, my favorite part of the service is singing and hearing others lift praises up to the Lord. Jennifer invited the children from the village to sing during the service. One of my favorite times each day is to here these precious children shout and sing praises to Jesus. I will usually stop if I am working and just listen to the sweet praises being lifted to our King.

View of Worship Within the Walls.

The service included Brother Tony and Brother Stan encouraging and preaching to those gathered. Max asked me to preach the longer Sermon. Once again, I had the privilege to prepare to proclaim God’s word in another language. I spoke from John 17:20-26. The message was intended to build upon the last three Sermons that I preached. The prior messages have been about the gospel, true salvation, and discipleship. The message that I preached on Sunday was about focusing on our lives in Jesus Christ. We looked at the prayer that Jesus lifted up for the future believers and the call to be unified, display his glory (message of the Gospel) and have his love in us.

Reuben and Others Gathered for Lunch After Service.

Many exciting things took place during this Sunday. For starters, six women volunteered to work with the children in the church in the future. Also, Reuben was being used to translate English into Spanish for Bro. Tony. Before he translated, he proclaimed to the people gathered that he was not a special man and struggled with four main things in his past. However, he declared that in that place, God changed him by grace. It was exciting to hear this man proclaim that God has changed him. After the service we provide lunch for everyone gathered. It was amazing to see them have full bowls of food after hearing the word of God. Thankfully, the exciting part of the worship was individuals being reconciled to God. There were four people that were saved during the service. Max’s daughter showed me a list after service, and nine people have become Christians since the first week of worship. Seeing people reconciled is the reason that this church is being planted and built in Santa Rosa el Rodeo. A building is being built in this village, but more importantly a church body is being established among these people. 

Santa Rosa el Rodeo Building Update

Front View of The Church Completed With Block.

The most visible sign of progress in the village is the construction of the church building. Many things have been accomplished on the building over the past two weeks while the groups were here. The various stages of the construction process have coincided with the discipleship and church planting in the village.

I recall when the footings had to be dug in order to give the building a solid foundation. The same seemed to be true about the people and children in Santa Rosa el Rodeo. We built relationships with people and began introducing them to the gospel of Jesus Christ. All of our time and that of others were used to build a foundation. Since that time, we have seen people grow stronger and flourish in their relationships with Jesus Christ.

The building process has reminded me of a rubix cube. There seems to be many moving parts that must be coordinated together, much like the different ideas for this building. We represented a mindset of desires from the United States concerning the building process. Bro. Max also had certain desires and plans that were the same and different. Then, we had a group of Guatemalan workers that work a certain way. All of these components had to come together so we could function properly. If not, we would continue to spin around and never finish the project much like an uncompleted rubix cube. However, when every component functions properly then everything aligns together. Thankfully, God has been in control and led the entire process. We are confident that every decision has been used to allow this building to be a tool for making disciples in Santa Rosa el Rodeo.

While the groups were here, all four walls were erected and all the columns were poured with concrete. The building was originally designed in preparation for another level in the future. The workers erected extra columns in order to strengthen the structure. However, we did not feel like we should prepare the building for another level. When the groups arrived, we cut half the columns out of the building and redesigned the block laying process. The workers wanted to lay six blocks and then pour a solid eight-inch bean of concrete for the next layer. That process would have taken twice as long and unnecessary for a single-story building.  

View of the Steel Rafters Upright.

The groups have been so willing to help on the building in any form or fashion. Together, we have allowed the hired workers to complete their task quicker and more efficient. During the two weeks, we have seen more than just the walls standing. The bathroom building was excavated for the footings, and the footings were poured. The walls for the bathroom building and the plumbing have been completed. The most daunting task for the past week was exhuming the dirt from within the church walls. The entire dirt had to be leveled and required strong-backs, many shovels, and wheelbarrows. It was unreal how much dirt had to be removed. Another job required a couple of our guys to help Max’s son Danny with the rafters. The steel for the rafters were cut, wielded and painted for the roof. Also, we ran electricity to the church building and installed a 12-circuit box inside. These were the most visible changes wile the groups were here in Guatemala.

Today, we returned to the property to minister in the village. We were astounded by how much work was completed since Tuesday afternoon. I don’t know if the workers were extremely tired this week or just trying to make the job last. However, they worked exceedingly slow Monday and Tuesday. Evidently, they put everything in high gear over the last two days. We were flabbergasted when we arrived and saw the entire rafters upright in position and the rest of the blocks finished. The men also blocked up part of the floor for the stage and leveled the rest of the dirt. As I was marveling at all of the work, Nick called out to me and told me that the electricity was connected to the power pole. We were all very excited at everything that we saw.  It was overwhelming to see how close the building is to being completed.

Bathroom Building

I am thankful to be here and be apart of this building process. My only desire was for our groups to see the building with a roof and a floor. However, God is in control and used the willingness of our group members to enable the building to be where it is now. Also, our group accomplished things this week that have a greater impact than a building. 

First Week of Loco Gringos

OK, No we haven’t all fallen off the face of the earth. And we are so sorry for not keeping a better day-by-day account for those who are keeping up with Bethel’s mission team. Week 1 is complete, and we are amazed by how God used us in this village. The team ministered in one village the entire week. We saw God pour out his blessings by focusing our energy and attention to one oppressed village. Bethel’s team worked in perfect harmony alongside each other. Not just in construction of houses, mixing of mortar, tossing of cinder blocks but also in passing out crayons, candy, and food.

The primary focus was the building of the church. `The church is well on its way, and hopefully the structure will have a roof and floor by the end of the second week. All together we had 34 and ½(Cadence isn’t quit tall enough to be counted as one yet, though she eats as much as another person!) gringos invading el Rodeo daily with the love of Christ. The first day is always a little crazy and hectic because new comers don’t really know what to do, the old timers have to figure out how to square up a 12x12 building again, and we had the added element of some just jumping in and working alongside a Guatemalan brick mason. It was interesting to say the least. Marvin was the man of the hour…”Donde esta Marvin?” everyone had questions for Marvin here, there, and everywhere. He was awesome, and in his niche. Everyday he has handled problems or complications that has come up, has been an excellent translator, and has bridged the gap between the Americans and the Guatemalans.

One exciting way that we ministered in the village was cooking the people a hot meal. A few weeks ago, we purchased a gas stove for the church with money raised by Toxey Baptist Church. We are Baptists….we like to meet and eat. So we fed people. We fed around 80 people 3 of the 5 days we were in the village. One sweet boy, Freddy, received his bowl of beef stew and rice on Saturday and just held it for awhile, staring. Finally, a lady from the team walked over to him, smiled, and motioned for him to eat. Once he tasted, the bowl was licked clean just a few minutes later, and he was so grateful for having a full stomach for once. Watching those children eat those hot meals were beautiful and a picture of God’s providence.

Another form of ministry in the village was Vacation Bible School. The V.B.S. in the village was filled with lots of games, singing, coloring, reading Bible stories, and of course snacks and candy. I foresee us really needing a dental mission trip to this village in the next few years due to all the candy we’ve passed out in the last week! We averaged about 60-80 kids daily with one day hitting the 100 mark. It is always amazing to invest in children, and plant seeds early in life. We poured the love of Christ into the future church of el Rodeo, and we know that God will see the harvest even if we don’t.

The highlight of the week was the worship service Sunday on the church property. The work we are doing is to provide a structure, the people gathered on Sunday was the church. Sunday’s church service deserves an entire blog entry alone. Satan did NOT want us making it to church. That morning we ran late due to a marathon that had traffic slowed to a crawl for several miles, then we found ourselves in a political party parade. When we finally made it to el Rodeo, we all saw one the most beautiful sights. We saw a church family praising and worshiping the one true God despite the construction hazards all around. The people of Santa Rosa el Rodeo sat on benches borrowed from another church. There were over 75 people gathered from the village to worship that morning. As soon as we arrived, it was pretty much time for the kids and the group to sing some of the songs that were sung during V.B.S. The kids did great, and the gringos tried their best to hang in there and sing all the songs in Spanish. Marvin preached in Spanish and spoke about being a disciple. He told a little about the disciples who followed Jesus, and read the great commission for Christians to “go into all the earth.” Marvin also laid out the plan of salvation, and explained why exactly we were in the village building a church. Pastor Max then summed up what Marvin had preached, and had an invitation. Do you recall Reuben that was mentioned a couple articles ago? Well, he and his significant other accepted the gift of salvation! Many others came forward, asking for prayer, and many of the people seemed genuinely broken and just cried out to God. It was probably one the most powerful church services I’ve ever attended. One teenager described the service by saying, “I didn’t understand a lick of what was said, but I felt the power and spirit of God in that place.” The stunning element of the service was that the community gathered for church was the exact people that were ministered to during the week by our group. We saw a direct correlation between the love of Christ we shared, and the people overwhelmed to search for that love from the Lord.

Monday and Tuesday we were all back at it again; building houses, mixing mortar, cooking lunch, singing songs, kicking balls, blowing bubbles, and throwing blocks. The village was buzzing with joyful people all around. Tuesday we dedicated five houses, giving those families a Spanish Bible, bed, blanket, and groceries. All were very grateful, and broken that people would help them out so much. The group also built two more houses that will get concrete floors, fronts, and doors this week before we dedicate Then the gringos had to tell the kids they wouldn’t be back tomorrow because they were returning home in America. Not good. We had a lot of crying children in need of plenty of hugs and candy this afternoon from the handful that stayed back to finish out the day in el Rodeo. I think for my emotional sanity, I may not tell the kids when our last day in the village will be this summer.

And so we end week one with sad goodbyes, but with a promise of more progress and seeds planted during week two. Adios Bethel, it was a blast! We love our church family in Citronelle, AL and we are excited to see where God will lead us next to continue to fulfill the Great Commission. We all need to be reminded to disciple those around us and continue to have compassion for the nations around the world.

           

Arrived and Tired

The vehicles are parked and the group is here safely.

We are thankful that our group from Bethel Baptist Church and Bro. Tony Meinhardt arrived safely in Guatemala today. It is unreal how quick the time has faded since we have been in Guatemala. However, we are extremely excited and exuberant that our group is here in Guatemala. The group is excited to get in the bed and get some sleep. The group left last night 8:30 and traveled to Atlanta (thanks to Mr. Robby DeVore). Then it was a full day of flights. Pray that God will grant them energizing rest tonight.

Tomorrow, we begin work on the church and ministry in Santa Rosa el Rodeo. Our desire is to seek the will and heart of the Lord during this trip. We want to be sensitive to his leading and guidance. We can not do anything on our own! Our best efforts are merely worthless without the blessing and direction of the Lord. We are excited to build houses and the church building. However, the people in this country is our main focus. We want to follow the Great Commission and share the gospel with them. May the Lord grant us the compassion that Jesus had when he looked upon the crowds.

"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." 

Matthew 28:19,20

A Man Named Reuben

Men Working on the Footings

A week that was supposed to be so full of expectations and joy was promptly squeezed-out, or let me say rained upon. There were many parts of the church building that we had hoped would be ready when the groups arrived. Unfortunately, the work was not completed at the rate that would have accomplished those aspirations. I’ll be honest, as each minute has passed over the past few days, I have become more stressed, irritated, frustrated, and mad. However, a shower of rain and a divine moment can change everything.

One of the most time consuming and tedious jobs is the concrete footings for the church. The footings will ensure that the building is sat upon a solid foundation. It is a very important task and one that needed to be accomplished before the groups arrive on Wednesday. The property in the village is not level, so the trenches for the footings are deeper than normal. The footings in Guatemala are usually around three feet deep. However, the trenches in the back are almost five foot due to the nature of the slope. The job has taken almost twice as long as first anticipated for a variety of reasons (two greatest reasons being rain and the workers). Yesterday, the work came to a sudden halt and the job looked like it would not be complete before our group arrived in Guatemala.

The men yesterday morning were more or less working at their normal ho-hum pace. Some of the workers are great men with integrity. Others seem to be milking the job for more time and money. The plan was for the rest of the rebar columns to be erected for the front, back and left wall. Then pour concrete around the columns. That would ensure that the entire trench could then be leveled with concrete on Wednesday, and ultimately be prepared for the group to begin laying block. After a brief conversation with one of the men and a horrendous rainstorm, everything changed. The man explained to me that they might erect the columns for the right side, but they will not pour concrete at their base. Also, he said that they were going to concrete only the left wall. Suddenly, the rain began to pour and all the men quit working. As I sat in the vehicle, I continued to get madder and madder. I began fuming about the words that he had spoken and the men relaxing in the building. I was determined that I was going to get out in the rain and erect those columns and concrete them even if I done it differently.

Children Gathered for Backyard Bible Club

I got out of the car and began moving columns to the excavated slots specifically carved for each column. I noticed one of the men watching me after the second one I carried. Before long, every man was watching me move the columns and working in the rain. Then I grabbed the two wrenches and started angling the steel so the columns could be erected in the ground. When I was bending the second before the last, one of the men came to me and said, “Your bends are not angled enough.” “Here, do it like this.” I am glad that I didn’t know how to express the thoughts in my head in Spanish. I was irritated. I was mad. I was fuming. I was about to say something…and then I experienced a defining moment.

My defining moment was a divine appointment with a man named Reuben. I first noticed him in my peripheral vision, and then I heard a voice proclaim, “Hey big brother!” I was caught off-guard due to the situation and his Latino-styled, Californian accented English. I started speaking to him in Spanish and he said, “English please, my Spanish is bad.” As the conversation continued, I knew that God had allowed us to meet together. The man proceeded to tell me his testimony, information about the village, and encouragement.

Reuben was originally from Belize and went to Sunday School as a child. Later in life, he got caught up in drugs and became a shame to his family. He spent time in prison and time in rehabs. He told me that Jesus became his ultimate rehabilitation. He knew the Bible and continued to quote verses. Every verse seemed to be relevant with either situations that my family is facing or questions about the future. The most powerful statement that he made was, “Marvin, don’t give up. What you are doing to serve God is beautiful. Continue to push and walk forward. Currently, it might feel like you are stepping in the thorns, but one day the soil of the people in this village and project will be like planting your feet in fertile soil.”

Guatemalan Birthday Party for Max's Grandson

I learned many lessons yesterday. I also had other lessons reinforced in my life. I was reminded yesterday that people are led by example. In the past, I have been taught that the best form of leadership is servant leadership. Usually, we all enter our vehicle when it begins to rain. However, yesterday I was determined to work and finish the footings. When I began working and striving in the rain, the other men began to leave the comforts of the shelter. The men rolled up their sleeves and joined me working in the rain. I was also reminded that we serve an amazing God that knows each of us individually. He knew that I needed that divine encounter, the defining moment yesterday. I am in love with God and I pray that each day he will mold my family and me. How great is our God!

“And whatever you do in word or deed, do everything in the mane of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to 

God the Father through him.” 

Colossians 3:17

Gotta Go, Go, Go, Go, Go

Yes, it’s been awhile. Time seems to slip by fast when you’re really busy. Most of you probably know that we made an unexpected trip back to the states for a few days to attend the funeral of Jennifer’s grandmother, Dora Lee Stewart. She was an amazing woman who loved God, and her family. She struggled with Alzheimer’s disease the last two years of her life, but no more. She is dancing and singing with Jesus now, with her memory intact and not a care in the world. We are thankful for the life of love she gave us as an example to live by.

            

We were able to see God’s divine plan by working out all of our flight plans on our return trip Friday. We had someone new to worry about as well. We welcomed Nick Meinhardt into our family, as he joined us on our return to Guatemala. Nick is an awesome young man, who has decided to spend the rest of his summer serving the people in Santa Rosa el Rodeo. It’s also great to have an extra pair of hands helping out with Cadence and work on the property. Anyway, Nick was loaded down with plenty awesome goodies such as Peter Pan peanut butter, beef jerky, tuna fish, and more than enough puffs for Cadence to last awhile. Unfortunately, someone also thought that tuna fish was priceless, and decided to use their “five-finger” discount and take every can of tuna that was in Nick’s bag. Maybe they will choke on it. Just kidding.

           

On Saturday, we arrived in Santa Rosa Rodeo for a long day of work….concrete. If you’ve ever had the privilege to work with a concrete crew in Guatemala, you know it is no easy task. All of the mixing is done by hand; well, with hoes, shovels, and a wheelbarrow. Concrete is now in the “kitchen” building, the “hombres” house, and the material building.

            

On Sunday, we attended the 2^nd worship service with the people of el Rodeo. Pastor Max has a wonderful extended family, and his brother and some members from his brother’s church attended, and provided worship leadership. As with all church planting, you really never know how many people to exactly expect, and we are still in the very early stages.

            

So far this week, we now have 4 men working on the foundation. They are also living on the church property during construction. Jennifer has nicknamed them the “ninja turtles”. Crazy, we know. Starting Wednesday, we had an additional 3 men working on the property Jennifer may possibly have to invent a new name since it will be 8 men now.

            

Please pray that these men will hear the gospel and encounter salvation. Also, pray for the integrity of all the men who pick up a shovel, axe, or wheelbarrow. Also pray for our patience. As Americans, we want everything our way and done yesterday. Everywhere else in the world, things happen when they happen, and no one really gets in a rush for anything. We are working, on a deadline now, as we are trying to get to a certain point with the church building before groups begin coming in next week. WOW. Next week. We have so, so, so much to do!           

            

Also, please to continue to pray for Cadence, as she now has 2 teeth coming in, and is trying to be more & more independent with walking. It’s not easy keeping her clean, so please continue to pray for health and safety. We have also discovered what we call “baby crack” for Cadence…Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, which kept her happy on the plane rides, and always calms her down if she seems to be pitching a fit. She has picked up the words “go, go, go, go, go ” from one of the songs on the episode we downloaded.  Those words are really fitting to describe our family right now. Between traveling to the United States, gathering supplies in Guatemala, and traveling to the village we seem to go, go, go, go, go!

            

Pray for us as we continue to “speak in tongues” as God allows us to speak and understand Spanish beyond our knowledge at times. And pray Satan away! He always chooses to kick us when we are down, and undertaking a project like this requires Satan to stay away and things to go as smoothly as possible.

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL YOU DO AND ALL YOUR PRAYERS!! 

(Jennifer wrote this blog, as I am sure you can tell)

First Worship Service In Santa Rosa el Rodeo

Over fifty people gathered together to worship.

Sunday was by far the best, and most memorable day that we have spent in Guatemala so far. It was a milestone because it marked the first worship service that was held on the church property in Santa Rosa el Rodeo. We are so thankful for all of our family, friends and supporters for praying for the service. Also, we want to thank you for letting us be a part of something so exciting in the kingdom of God.

The weather and attendance seemed bleak when we first arrived to the property. We were supposed to start church at nine, but Max was running late and the rain started to pour. Our family and friends think we always run late, but in Guatemala we are always on time because everyone else is late! However, God poured out his spirit in that place and we had an amazing worship service.

Jennifer leading "Te Doy Gloria" with Kaylee's help.

The rain quickly faded as the worship service began, and it subsided until the worship service was over. As soon as everyone was leaving, the rain started again.

Over fifty people joined together to worship God on the property. I was overwhelmed and saw an unbelievable worship service transpire on the property. The amazing part was that we did not meet in a building, there were no chairs to sit upon, and a live band leading worship was absent. Yet, people humbly joined together to worship the Lord in a way that I have not ever experienced.

The children in the village singing during the service.

The service included various people leading out in worship. Pastor Max’s son-in-law, Guierrmo, shared verses and led in prayer numerous times throughout the service. A lady from the village led everyone in worship choruses, and later Jennifer led a praise song in Spanish. Max dedicated a portion of the service to bring the children up and allowed them to sing and then gave them a short devotional. I was blessed with the opportunity to preach, and it was the first sermon that I have ever preached in Spanish. All together, everything was simply astonishing. The service concluded with people gathered around pleading for God to guide their lives, while at the same time, 2 or 5 people decided to follow Jesus.

Men and women pleading for God's leadership.

I walked away from that service extremely excited, overwhelmed, and convicted. I have described the reason why I was excited and overwhelmed, but I was also convicted during this service. I saw first-hand that we do not need all of the luxuries of our American churches to truly worship God. It reminds me a lot of the topics that David Platt has wrote about in “Radical.” Most of us are so comfortable in our lifestyles and it seems to bleed over into our worship of God as well. We seem to believe that he enjoys us to be comfortable and take a relaxed position in our Christianity. I’m not saying that he doesn’t bless us with certain comforts, but everything that he entrusts to us are intended to be used for his glory. We are definitely excited about building the church building in Santa Rosa el Rodeo, but more importantly we are excited about making disciples of the people that live in that village. The proper perspective is that people are always more important than buildings, programs, or things of this world. Thank God for his grace so we can extend his glory!

Rain, Rain, Rain, and More Rain...Have I Mentioned That It Rained?

 In the United States, most of us have a bad habit of desiring to have things immediately when we want them. We have little patience for change of plans, being late or not receiving what we want. That type of thinking is very dangerous and uncommon in other countries, especially Guatemala. I must confess, I displayed that type of American thinking today.

Today was suppose to be a major work day on the church property in the village. The plans were to finish building the fence, construct a 12'x24' material building, erect a house for the workers, and build a kitchen. All of this seemed like a lofty goal, but let me assure you that it all could have  been done. However, the plans changed completely!

We arrived on the property at 8:15 this morning anticipating a full day of work. Max and five other men arrived shortly after us. A few of the men went to work on the fence quickly while Max and myself designated the placement of buildings on the property. From this point forward, plans changed drastically.

First, the materials for the buildings didn't arrive until 9:30. After unloading the vehicle, Max informed me that he forgot his wheelbarrows and we needed to travel to Escuintla to buy a couple. It took us longer than expected and we didn't return until 11. Unfortunately, the sky looked like it was about to burst open and slap us with a fury of rain. The weather turned horrible and we were all huddled under some tin stretched over the vehicles. I guess that was a good time to rain because our lumber still had not been delivered.

After a quick lunch and the rain subsiding, we went to work full throttle. Thankfully, we were able to finish the material building on the property. It seemed like we were going to be able to meet our lofty goals. Suddenly, the clouds congregated overhead and poured rain upon us fiercefully.

We all gathered under the newly erected building. It rained for a solid two hours. We finally decided to call it quits, but we had to gather all of the material that stretched from one end to the other on the property. All of us was soaking wet when we concluded.

I'll be honest, I was very frustrated!

I wanted to have all of this done today, so the workers can begin living on the property and start on Monday. I was in a bit of a foul mood while we were driving home. Then the Guatemalan Police pulled me over. I was thinking, "What else could happen today."

Everything was fine, but God used that brief moment on the side of the road to correct my thinking. He used Jennifer to show me how he had blessed us today. Everyday, we have certain goals and expectations that each of us set. I wander, how many of us pray for God to guide our steps, expectations, and goals for each day?