We have arrived!
...well, most of us anyway! The rest of our team is traveling tonight. Please continue to keep them in your prayers.
This year, our theme scripture comes from the book of Ephesians.
"For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height--to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundant above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen." Ephesians 3:14-21
It is through His Spirit and because of His love that we have returned to Guadalajara for a third year to work alongside our brothers and sisters at Brazos de Amistad and Calvary Chapel Guadalajara. We are part of one body, with Christ as our head, and to see the depths of His love poured out during our time here is a tremendous blessing. We look forward to the days ahead! Stay tuned for daily updates and thank you for your prayers and support!
Blessings,
Noelle
This year, our theme scripture comes from the book of Ephesians.
"For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height--to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundant above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen." Ephesians 3:14-21
It is through His Spirit and because of His love that we have returned to Guadalajara for a third year to work alongside our brothers and sisters at Brazos de Amistad and Calvary Chapel Guadalajara. We are part of one body, with Christ as our head, and to see the depths of His love poured out during our time here is a tremendous blessing. We look forward to the days ahead! Stay tuned for daily updates and thank you for your prayers and support!
Blessings,
Noelle
Thursday, July 23, 2015
Day 1
Guadalajara! We out here! Ready to serve after a long night of traveling from Ontario to Guadalajara. We made it safely--praise be to God. We arrived at the airport, for some of us as first timers and others of us as returners. When we finally arrived at the soup kitchen, they greeted us with a warm meal and freshly squeezed orange juice. We got to see where each of us was staying for the night, and they gave us an opportunity to rest. I took it; I wanted make sure I had enough energy to play with the kids and give them my all.
My heart was full when I finally was able to see the kids. Their little smiles lit up as they recognized familiar faces. They were also very joyful to make new friends. As soon as the kids were done with their meal, we were ready to play. We played tag, red rover, made bracelets, gave piggyback rides, played soccer, painted nails, and played with chalk.
Towards the end of the night, some of the kids walked back across the bridge to go to their homes.
The church has a regular prayer session, in which we were able to join the members of Calvary Chapel Guadalajara in prayer and worship to Our Lord and King. It was a sweet time to hear the church with one mind, one heart, and one spirit, praying and giving thanks for who God is within our lives. Our praises reverberated outside the church walls for all to hear as sweet burning incense for The Lord. Children gathered around the doors to hear us praise in a different language, giving them a glimpse of what Heaven will be like.
For dinner we had chocolate milk and sweet bread. Some of us stayed and fellowshipped while others went on a hunt for the best street tacos. I decided to stay back. The people who went to get tacos enjoyed 50¢ tacos and driving around in the back of an F150.
After a long day of play, we headed back to our rooms and got ready for bed. Fifteen of our team members arrived in Guadalajara as we slept. The next morning was filled with joyful hellos as we greeted the team members who joined us.
-Tiffanne Martinez
My heart was full when I finally was able to see the kids. Their little smiles lit up as they recognized familiar faces. They were also very joyful to make new friends. As soon as the kids were done with their meal, we were ready to play. We played tag, red rover, made bracelets, gave piggyback rides, played soccer, painted nails, and played with chalk.
Towards the end of the night, some of the kids walked back across the bridge to go to their homes.
The church has a regular prayer session, in which we were able to join the members of Calvary Chapel Guadalajara in prayer and worship to Our Lord and King. It was a sweet time to hear the church with one mind, one heart, and one spirit, praying and giving thanks for who God is within our lives. Our praises reverberated outside the church walls for all to hear as sweet burning incense for The Lord. Children gathered around the doors to hear us praise in a different language, giving them a glimpse of what Heaven will be like.
For dinner we had chocolate milk and sweet bread. Some of us stayed and fellowshipped while others went on a hunt for the best street tacos. I decided to stay back. The people who went to get tacos enjoyed 50¢ tacos and driving around in the back of an F150.
After a long day of play, we headed back to our rooms and got ready for bed. Fifteen of our team members arrived in Guadalajara as we slept. The next morning was filled with joyful hellos as we greeted the team members who joined us.
-Tiffanne Martinez
Friday, July 24, 2015
Day 2
It has been a mere 48 hours of settling in and becoming familiar with this beautiful area that many call home. I am amazed at how quickly the Lord is revealing new things to not only myself but to other members of our team. I feel such love by the people here and their continual desire to serve us in all that they do.
Yesterday morning, a group of people traveled to the marketplace to pickup some items for the soup kitchen. When they returned, we helped sort the food and organize some of the items within the kitchen. Later in the afternoon, the women boarded the bus and left for the retreat. The rest of the day was filled with fellowship with the community here. We continued to spend time with some of the children, played with them at the park, enjoyed ice cream together and spent time talking and walking through the streets. Although there were not many planned activities, the day was filled with quality time with everyone here.
Later in the evening, some of us could not resist the idea of driving downtown to get tacos. Our team has bonded through conversation and laughter but even more so through sharing such incredible meals together.
As I take this moment to pause and reflect in all that the Lord is slowly revealing in my heart, I realize that there are many things I need to change in myself. The amount of service and dedication that is exemplified by the people here blows my mind. They are an exact representation of what Christ calls us to be with one another. To deny ourselves and serve others in a way that shows the love of Jesus.
Bendiciones [blessings]
Brie Broyles
P.S. Hi mom and dad
Yesterday morning, a group of people traveled to the marketplace to pickup some items for the soup kitchen. When they returned, we helped sort the food and organize some of the items within the kitchen. Later in the afternoon, the women boarded the bus and left for the retreat. The rest of the day was filled with fellowship with the community here. We continued to spend time with some of the children, played with them at the park, enjoyed ice cream together and spent time talking and walking through the streets. Although there were not many planned activities, the day was filled with quality time with everyone here.
Later in the evening, some of us could not resist the idea of driving downtown to get tacos. Our team has bonded through conversation and laughter but even more so through sharing such incredible meals together.
As I take this moment to pause and reflect in all that the Lord is slowly revealing in my heart, I realize that there are many things I need to change in myself. The amount of service and dedication that is exemplified by the people here blows my mind. They are an exact representation of what Christ calls us to be with one another. To deny ourselves and serve others in a way that shows the love of Jesus.
Bendiciones [blessings]
Brie Broyles
P.S. Hi mom and dad
Saturday, July 25, 2015
Day 3
Buenos Dias Familia del Jardin,
Good Morning Garden Family
It has been a blessing after blessing. As you all know, a womens retreat took place from Friday night to Saturday evening in Mazamitla, which is a small town in the woods of Jalisco. It was a privilege to be able to get on a bus with 45 other women from Capilla Calvario Guadalajara. This was not just another retreat, it was the first retreat these women ever got to experience. You can all imagine how excited they all were, it was like a group of 5 year olds ready to go on a school field trip. They were jumping and shouting, looking out the windows as we drove out of the city. On that four hour ride, I asked the Lord to show me what was His purpose for me on that trip. I knew I was in charge of the ice breaker game and as a support to my sisters that would be speaking and sharing with these women. In my heart I trusted on the Lords perfect plan and purpose for each one of us.
Upon our arrival, Ana, Holly, Erica and Lorena had the conference decorated and ready for us. Worship started and the room was completly spirit filled within seconds. Chills down my body, tears down my eyes just to see how each one praised and worshipped in spirit in truth with their whole heart. Lorena was our first speaker and the topic was on How to abide in the Lord. These women were very attentive and encouraged by all that she was sharing. After that Deedee and Dawn took a group out for a bonfire and smores. These women had never made smores or even knew what they were. Deedee and Dawn did a great job loving on these ladies and helping them make the smores. Funny to see that it then turned into making quezadillas instead of smores LOL!! Their smiles were priceless and must say the love of Christ was surrounding us.
-Monica Garcia
Good Morning Garden Family
It has been a blessing after blessing. As you all know, a womens retreat took place from Friday night to Saturday evening in Mazamitla, which is a small town in the woods of Jalisco. It was a privilege to be able to get on a bus with 45 other women from Capilla Calvario Guadalajara. This was not just another retreat, it was the first retreat these women ever got to experience. You can all imagine how excited they all were, it was like a group of 5 year olds ready to go on a school field trip. They were jumping and shouting, looking out the windows as we drove out of the city. On that four hour ride, I asked the Lord to show me what was His purpose for me on that trip. I knew I was in charge of the ice breaker game and as a support to my sisters that would be speaking and sharing with these women. In my heart I trusted on the Lords perfect plan and purpose for each one of us.
Upon our arrival, Ana, Holly, Erica and Lorena had the conference decorated and ready for us. Worship started and the room was completly spirit filled within seconds. Chills down my body, tears down my eyes just to see how each one praised and worshipped in spirit in truth with their whole heart. Lorena was our first speaker and the topic was on How to abide in the Lord. These women were very attentive and encouraged by all that she was sharing. After that Deedee and Dawn took a group out for a bonfire and smores. These women had never made smores or even knew what they were. Deedee and Dawn did a great job loving on these ladies and helping them make the smores. Funny to see that it then turned into making quezadillas instead of smores LOL!! Their smiles were priceless and must say the love of Christ was surrounding us.
-Monica Garcia
Hello Garden Fellowship,
The eight of us who went from The Garden were so excited for this retreat. As Monica mentioned, most of the women that went had never attended a retreat. For most of us, it is a simple decision to attend a retreat and be able to afford it. However, for these women, this is not the case. These women come from broken homes. Many are abused mentality, physically, sexually, and emotionally. They had to jump through many hurdles to even attend. Some of them were afraid to ask their husbands for permission to attend because they are very jealous and possessive. However, after much prayer, we had a bus full of women (36 in attendance). They were able to take a break from their environment and be ministered to and loved on. This was an amazing experience even for those of us who were running the retreat. We were so touched by these women. They have such a hard life and live on so little and yet, their hearts are full of thanksgiving and joy. They were so hungry to learn more about the Lord and to speak about their experiences and what the Lord has already done in their lives. We were humbled at the lady’s willingness to be so open in showing their love for the Lord. They didn’t hold back in their worship and gave themselves completely to the Lord. We couldn’t hold back the tears after Ailin asked them to come forward if they wanted to commit their lives to the Lord and/or if they needed prayer. Almost all of them got up without any hesitation. Thanks to the generous donations from women at our ABIDE, ADORE, and REJOICE retreat along with other mission fundraisers, we were able to provide a bus to transport these women to the mountains of Mazamitla. We were also able to rent four beautiful cabins for the women to rest and have fellowship. In addition, we provided each of the women with a bag (just like the one the GF women received at their retreat). In the bag, thanks in part to Jordan Outreach Ministries, were many goodies such as a journal, toiletries, a scarf, and a bookmark. The conference room was decorated with fresh sunflowers, and the women couldn’t believe all of this was done for them. We also used the GF theme Abide, Adore and Rejoice for the Guadalajara retreat. Lorena opened the retreat up speaking on Abiding in the Lord. Saturday morning Ana continued with Adore, which in Spanish means worship. Ailin spoke on Rejoicing in the Lord. We also concluded with retreat by partaking in communion together. This vision for a women’s retreat came about over a year ago. Seeing what these women have to endure on a day to day basis is saddening. We wanted to provide the women with an opportunity to be refreshed and refueled and more importantly to have a break from all of the negativity around them. Also, if you have been blessed enough to participate in one of the previous mission trips you know that the women of Brazos De Amistad, that we come to serve, end up serving and taking care of us instead. We wanted to be able to bless and serve them for a change. Taking them to the mountains, they were able to disconnect from everything and everyone and be able to have that quiet time with the Lord and fellowship with other women. Thanks again to all of the ladies from our retreat in the U.S. who not only financially supported these ladies in Guadalajara, but also prayed over each of these ladies. Even though you didn’t know these ladies, you were willing to support them and love on them from a distance. It was beautiful and God’s love was demonstrated through you. We truly worked together as the body of Christ and we felt as if you were with us in spirit. This would’ve been impossible without you. Truly, the women were so thankful and grateful. God Bless and see you soon!! Ana, Hollie, Lorena and Erica |
Sunday, July 26, 2015
Day 4
Good evening, Garden Fellowship! It was another blessed and fun-filled day at Calvary Chapel Guadalajara and Brazos de Amistad. The men and women who work at the comedor are wonderful examples of what it means to have unselfish servant hearts. They serve and serve and serve.
Church service was moved to 4PM, and many members of our team helped to prepare for it by cleaning and getting ready for Sunday school. The church service itself was full, and Pastor Brian blessed everyone in attendance with his message. We had about 40 kids for Sunday school. We had a great time with them, and they seemed to love it. Our lesson was from Acts 13, when Saul and Barnabas were sent out on their first mission. We were able to explain how God sent our team on mission as well. We also worked on crafts, played games, and ended the service with a worship song from last year's VBS. They remembered the song, and joined in singing and dancing. They just loved it! It was a real joy to watch. They demonstrated what it means to rejoice in the Lord. "Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say rejoice." Phillippians 4:4
During the day, we also decorated for Gali´s Quinceanera. Gali is Ana's niece, and several members of our team have had the priviledge of celebrating her birthday on each of our mission trips. She is a beautiful young lady, and we are honored to be here on her special day.
The quincenera was a lot of fun. There was delicious food and lots of dancing. The night ended with heavy rain, and we all ran for cover! The kids played in the rain and had a blast!
VBS starts tomorrow, and we are so excited to see the kids and to share God's word and His love with these precious little ones. Please continue praying for the Lord to work in their little hearts. See you soon, brothers and sisters.
God bless you all!
Claudia
Church service was moved to 4PM, and many members of our team helped to prepare for it by cleaning and getting ready for Sunday school. The church service itself was full, and Pastor Brian blessed everyone in attendance with his message. We had about 40 kids for Sunday school. We had a great time with them, and they seemed to love it. Our lesson was from Acts 13, when Saul and Barnabas were sent out on their first mission. We were able to explain how God sent our team on mission as well. We also worked on crafts, played games, and ended the service with a worship song from last year's VBS. They remembered the song, and joined in singing and dancing. They just loved it! It was a real joy to watch. They demonstrated what it means to rejoice in the Lord. "Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say rejoice." Phillippians 4:4
During the day, we also decorated for Gali´s Quinceanera. Gali is Ana's niece, and several members of our team have had the priviledge of celebrating her birthday on each of our mission trips. She is a beautiful young lady, and we are honored to be here on her special day.
The quincenera was a lot of fun. There was delicious food and lots of dancing. The night ended with heavy rain, and we all ran for cover! The kids played in the rain and had a blast!
VBS starts tomorrow, and we are so excited to see the kids and to share God's word and His love with these precious little ones. Please continue praying for the Lord to work in their little hearts. See you soon, brothers and sisters.
God bless you all!
Claudia
Monday, July 27, 2015
Day 5
As always, our time down here is going by quickly--too quickly. Today was an incredibly full day, and we were blessed every moment. God is so good and so perfect, and I marvel at His provision and love for us. I marvel at His wondrous works. He strengthens, He delivers, He restores--He is our all in all. Oh, how He loves us so!
Today was the first day of Escuela de Verano Everest! Just like last year, we invite children from the comedor, ages 2-12, to join us for three days as we praise our Father through song, dance, fellowship, games, and of course...Imagination Station. This morning, the kids made snow during Imagination Station, and the expression of awe on their faces was priceless. Even Eugenio, the director of the comedor, was enthralled with the white, fluffy substance. Chattering with excitement, the kids played with the "snowflakes," cupping them in their hands and letting the flakes fall through their fingers again and again. What simple joys, what simple pleasures.
A total of 90 kids attended VBS today, which is awesome! 60 attended the first day last year, so we were excited to see so many more joining us. Our Bible story today was from 1 Kings 17, in which God provides food and water for Elijah. Our God is our provider, and He knows our needs, and although the needs of these children are great, He is greater. God is faithful and because of Him, these children find food and love here, food and love they may not find at home. This entire mission field depends on Him, and His hand is ever present.
After VBS, the children were fed, and then we were able to sit down to eat. As always, the food is amazing, and I'm sure we will all come back five pounds heavier.:) Throughout the rest of the day, you could see the Holy Spirit working through the members of our team. Several people cleaned up the soup kitchen after lunch. Some played with the children outside the comedor; others played soccer at the park with the kids. Holly and Brianna B. taught the dance team girls a new dance, which they will perform at the outreach on Thursday, and Chris spent the afternoon giving haircuts to women who volunteer at the comedor.
A few members of our team went to the hospital to visit and pray for a 12 year old boy named Sergio and his mother, Vicki. Vicki is a volunteer at the soup kitchen, and the other day, she found her son in terrible pain. The pain was so intense that Sergio cried out to God to take him home to heaven. He soon felt a cooling sensation overcome him, and he thought it was God answering his prayer. Unfortunately, however, his appendix had burst. His mother rushed him to the hospital, but because there was not a surgical room available, he had to wait. By the time Sergio was able to get into surgery, there was a great deal of damage, and the doctors had to remove part of his stomach along with his appendix. We are thankful that they know the Lord and that their church family at Calvary Chapel Guadalajara is able to come alongside them during this time. And even though this is a very difficult time, Vicki says that she is grateful for the opportunity to have attended the women's retreat, because the Holy Spirit had strengthened and filled her during that time, so that she can now be strong for her son. Please keep them in prayer.
Later that evening, Taylor and Casey invited the youth (12-17 years old) to TGF's first youth outreach night. About 40 teenagers came, and the echo of their laughter could be heard down the street as they ate pizza and played games. After the games, they praised God through song, and Taylor taught from 1 Kings 18. The outreach will continue for the next two nights, and we look forward to seeing how Jesus works in the hearts of these young adults.
The night ended with a heartfelt prayer and worship meeting. Eugenio and his wife, Vero, joined us, and we asked them questions about this mission that God called them to. At the center of every one of their answers was one name--Jesus Christ. He has provided for them in so many ways, and He strengthens them when they feel discouraged. Their calling is not easy. There are times when they don't feel like they are doing enough. There are times when children from the comedor are very sick and need a doctor, but there is no money to pay for one. There are times when women come to the soup kitchen, broken because of abuse and seeking refuge. Eugenio and Vero--and all of Pastor Alfonso's family--continually seek the Lord and pray for these children and women they serve. They lay these needs, these broken hearts at the feet of Jesus. They walk by faith, knowing that God hears their prayers. At the end of the meeting, we lifted up Eugenio and Vero in prayer. We also lifted up Lucio and Ailin Vazquez and their family. Like Eugenio and Vero, they have stepped out in faith and now serve as full time missionaries at the east end of the valley. They reach out to those in need, those who are only a few minutes away from where we live, in a variety of ways. Please pray for them, and ask God how He can use you to come alongside the Vasquez family.
We miss you, and we love you! Thank you for everything.
Blessings,
Noelle
"Oh give thanks to the Lord, call upon His name; make known His deeds among the peoples. Sing to Him, sing praises to Him; speak of all His wonders. Glory in His holy name; let the heart of those who seek the Lord be glad. Seek the Lord and His strength; seek His face continually." Psalm 105:1-4
Today was the first day of Escuela de Verano Everest! Just like last year, we invite children from the comedor, ages 2-12, to join us for three days as we praise our Father through song, dance, fellowship, games, and of course...Imagination Station. This morning, the kids made snow during Imagination Station, and the expression of awe on their faces was priceless. Even Eugenio, the director of the comedor, was enthralled with the white, fluffy substance. Chattering with excitement, the kids played with the "snowflakes," cupping them in their hands and letting the flakes fall through their fingers again and again. What simple joys, what simple pleasures.
A total of 90 kids attended VBS today, which is awesome! 60 attended the first day last year, so we were excited to see so many more joining us. Our Bible story today was from 1 Kings 17, in which God provides food and water for Elijah. Our God is our provider, and He knows our needs, and although the needs of these children are great, He is greater. God is faithful and because of Him, these children find food and love here, food and love they may not find at home. This entire mission field depends on Him, and His hand is ever present.
After VBS, the children were fed, and then we were able to sit down to eat. As always, the food is amazing, and I'm sure we will all come back five pounds heavier.:) Throughout the rest of the day, you could see the Holy Spirit working through the members of our team. Several people cleaned up the soup kitchen after lunch. Some played with the children outside the comedor; others played soccer at the park with the kids. Holly and Brianna B. taught the dance team girls a new dance, which they will perform at the outreach on Thursday, and Chris spent the afternoon giving haircuts to women who volunteer at the comedor.
A few members of our team went to the hospital to visit and pray for a 12 year old boy named Sergio and his mother, Vicki. Vicki is a volunteer at the soup kitchen, and the other day, she found her son in terrible pain. The pain was so intense that Sergio cried out to God to take him home to heaven. He soon felt a cooling sensation overcome him, and he thought it was God answering his prayer. Unfortunately, however, his appendix had burst. His mother rushed him to the hospital, but because there was not a surgical room available, he had to wait. By the time Sergio was able to get into surgery, there was a great deal of damage, and the doctors had to remove part of his stomach along with his appendix. We are thankful that they know the Lord and that their church family at Calvary Chapel Guadalajara is able to come alongside them during this time. And even though this is a very difficult time, Vicki says that she is grateful for the opportunity to have attended the women's retreat, because the Holy Spirit had strengthened and filled her during that time, so that she can now be strong for her son. Please keep them in prayer.
Later that evening, Taylor and Casey invited the youth (12-17 years old) to TGF's first youth outreach night. About 40 teenagers came, and the echo of their laughter could be heard down the street as they ate pizza and played games. After the games, they praised God through song, and Taylor taught from 1 Kings 18. The outreach will continue for the next two nights, and we look forward to seeing how Jesus works in the hearts of these young adults.
The night ended with a heartfelt prayer and worship meeting. Eugenio and his wife, Vero, joined us, and we asked them questions about this mission that God called them to. At the center of every one of their answers was one name--Jesus Christ. He has provided for them in so many ways, and He strengthens them when they feel discouraged. Their calling is not easy. There are times when they don't feel like they are doing enough. There are times when children from the comedor are very sick and need a doctor, but there is no money to pay for one. There are times when women come to the soup kitchen, broken because of abuse and seeking refuge. Eugenio and Vero--and all of Pastor Alfonso's family--continually seek the Lord and pray for these children and women they serve. They lay these needs, these broken hearts at the feet of Jesus. They walk by faith, knowing that God hears their prayers. At the end of the meeting, we lifted up Eugenio and Vero in prayer. We also lifted up Lucio and Ailin Vazquez and their family. Like Eugenio and Vero, they have stepped out in faith and now serve as full time missionaries at the east end of the valley. They reach out to those in need, those who are only a few minutes away from where we live, in a variety of ways. Please pray for them, and ask God how He can use you to come alongside the Vasquez family.
We miss you, and we love you! Thank you for everything.
Blessings,
Noelle
"Oh give thanks to the Lord, call upon His name; make known His deeds among the peoples. Sing to Him, sing praises to Him; speak of all His wonders. Glory in His holy name; let the heart of those who seek the Lord be glad. Seek the Lord and His strength; seek His face continually." Psalm 105:1-4
Tuesday, July 28, 2015
Day 6
One of the toughest parts of ministering to the kids here in Guadalajara is that when many of the kids reach their teenage years they disappear. Especially the kids from across the bridge from La Isla. It just seems that the lure and pressure to be involved with drugs, prostitution, and gangs overwhelms them and they fall into the same vicious cycle of life that their older siblings and parents feel trapped in. It's tough for me, and I'm not here most of the year. It's so heart-breaking for our brothers and sisters here who have been pouring into the children for years.
Today was Day 2 of VBS. Two things stand out to me the most: First, God has the power to heal! That's what we taught the children. Second, Rosa was at VBS today. Rosa wasn't at VBS yesterday, and I was worried I wouldn't see her this year. Rosa is 13 years old now and is at the disappearing age when kids start feeling too old for the soup kitchen, or other kids may make fun of them for going. I was so glad that she showed up, and that we'd have another chance to show her God's love.
I have been seeing Rosa here since she was about 8 years old, and she and her little sisters, Erica, Alondra, and Wendy tend to follow me around when I'm here. When I think about the soup kitchen their little faces come to my mind first. These sweet kids live in a heap of trash across the bridge. Please pray for these children.
At our evening team devotional, Rosa, Teffy, and little Brian joined us. Brian is a kid here who is always running around helping the staff and volunteers. He came in and said that he wanted to pray for us. After he prayed for us we prayed for the three children.
I encourage you to pray with us for vision for this community. Could there be a school here to help teach the children to read and write? Could we purchase a missionary home and steadily send support down? We have many ideas. As always, we need to follow the Lord, and He will lead us in paths of righteousness for His namesake.
-Steve D.
Today was Day 2 of VBS. Two things stand out to me the most: First, God has the power to heal! That's what we taught the children. Second, Rosa was at VBS today. Rosa wasn't at VBS yesterday, and I was worried I wouldn't see her this year. Rosa is 13 years old now and is at the disappearing age when kids start feeling too old for the soup kitchen, or other kids may make fun of them for going. I was so glad that she showed up, and that we'd have another chance to show her God's love.
I have been seeing Rosa here since she was about 8 years old, and she and her little sisters, Erica, Alondra, and Wendy tend to follow me around when I'm here. When I think about the soup kitchen their little faces come to my mind first. These sweet kids live in a heap of trash across the bridge. Please pray for these children.
At our evening team devotional, Rosa, Teffy, and little Brian joined us. Brian is a kid here who is always running around helping the staff and volunteers. He came in and said that he wanted to pray for us. After he prayed for us we prayed for the three children.
I encourage you to pray with us for vision for this community. Could there be a school here to help teach the children to read and write? Could we purchase a missionary home and steadily send support down? We have many ideas. As always, we need to follow the Lord, and He will lead us in paths of righteousness for His namesake.
-Steve D.
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Wednesday, July 29, 2015
Day 7
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Thursday, July 30, 2015
Day 8
1 John 4:19 We love because He first loved us.
One of the greatest characteristics, one of the most Divine of all God’s attributes, something that is inseparable from His person, is His love. Jesus loves with such abandon. Jesus loved when reviled, Jesus loved when rejected, Jesus loved even after being beaten, flogged, mocked and pierced. As He hung on a cross, He still continued to love the people He came to save. Now that all of this is in your mind, you and I are called to love because He first loved us.
When VBS started, I wasn’t loving like this. I was holding myself back a little bit. Last year was so difficult. It was so hard to leave these precious kids. There is such a strong connection that is formed during VBS; your heart gets so quickly attached. As VBS started, I had the notion that I would guard my own heart. I would love, but I would hold a little bit back in an effort to not hurt so much when the trip reached its conclusion. An hour in, my plan is working. I start to leave the corporate time of worship and go out to play games with some of the other kids, and these kids start repeating, “Contigo, contigo, contigo!” I keep answering I don’t understand, I don’t speak Spanish. As I reach the door, I ask one of our bilingual speakers on the team what “contigo”means. She told me it means “with you”. I turned around and there were all these faces, begging me to be with them. I am still reluctant, I don’t want my heart to hurt like it did last year. But what do I do? I say a silent prayer, Lord, what should I do? What would you do here Lord? The Lord answered me, I’d already be over there! I would have never left their side in the first place. Go and love them like I do and quit holding yourself back. I walked back and crossed over that emotional barrier and haven’t looked back. The love of our Lord Jesus is in-credible! We are to love because He first loved us.
God has been showing me on this trip that I have been holding back my heart. When we get hurt we have the tendency to love less the next time, thinking that we can prevent it from reoccurring. But what happens in reality, when we love less, we act less like Jesus to those around us. There was never a time when Jesus loved with reservation and neither should we.
Brian
One of the greatest characteristics, one of the most Divine of all God’s attributes, something that is inseparable from His person, is His love. Jesus loves with such abandon. Jesus loved when reviled, Jesus loved when rejected, Jesus loved even after being beaten, flogged, mocked and pierced. As He hung on a cross, He still continued to love the people He came to save. Now that all of this is in your mind, you and I are called to love because He first loved us.
When VBS started, I wasn’t loving like this. I was holding myself back a little bit. Last year was so difficult. It was so hard to leave these precious kids. There is such a strong connection that is formed during VBS; your heart gets so quickly attached. As VBS started, I had the notion that I would guard my own heart. I would love, but I would hold a little bit back in an effort to not hurt so much when the trip reached its conclusion. An hour in, my plan is working. I start to leave the corporate time of worship and go out to play games with some of the other kids, and these kids start repeating, “Contigo, contigo, contigo!” I keep answering I don’t understand, I don’t speak Spanish. As I reach the door, I ask one of our bilingual speakers on the team what “contigo”means. She told me it means “with you”. I turned around and there were all these faces, begging me to be with them. I am still reluctant, I don’t want my heart to hurt like it did last year. But what do I do? I say a silent prayer, Lord, what should I do? What would you do here Lord? The Lord answered me, I’d already be over there! I would have never left their side in the first place. Go and love them like I do and quit holding yourself back. I walked back and crossed over that emotional barrier and haven’t looked back. The love of our Lord Jesus is in-credible! We are to love because He first loved us.
God has been showing me on this trip that I have been holding back my heart. When we get hurt we have the tendency to love less the next time, thinking that we can prevent it from reoccurring. But what happens in reality, when we love less, we act less like Jesus to those around us. There was never a time when Jesus loved with reservation and neither should we.
Brian
Friday, July 31, 2015
Day 9
Today is our last full day here! Every moment of every day has been a blessing and a joy! Last night, the power of the Holy Spirit was ever present at the park outreach. We invited members of the community to join us as we served hotdogs, danced in the streets, performed a skit, and played with the kids. Most importantly, however, we invited the community to hear the gospel, the good news of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
The Lord anointed the lips of Lucio as he delivered the gospel, and as Lucio spoke, I watched the people in the audience. Many who know the Lord nodded along as he delivered the message of repentance and salvation. Those people know the truth of the gospel and the power of God's word. (Amen!) Others in the audience starred intently at Lucio. They clung to the Holy Spirit's every word. Their eyes remained fixed upon where Lucio was standing, and you could see the power of the Lord working in them. When Lucio gave the alter call, it was those people who stepped forward. They stepped forward to receive the free gift of grace, to receive the Holy Spirit, to receive everlasting life. Glory to God in the highest!
One of the women to step forward was Rosa's older sister (see Wednesday's blog). She said that she felt something inside her, something she couldn't describe. It was the power of the Holy Spirit alive in her. This young woman has seen the effect God has had in her younger siblings' lives. She has seen their joy; she has seen the power of Jesus working in them. God has used Brazos de Amistad as a vessel to reach Rosa, Erica, Alondra, and Wendy, and in turn, He is using these young ones to plant seeds in the hearts of their other family members. How wonderful and awesome is He! We will continue to pray for those who received salvation last night. We pray that they will be on fire for the Lord, come to church, read His word, and minister to others in the community. There were many in the audience who are still in a pit of darkness and despair. You could see their conflicting emotions as Lucio spoke. You could see that they long to have what we all have, they long for the peace and joy of the Lord, but they are in bondage to sin, and they long to hold on to it as well. We also pray for them, and we pray for the ministry down there as they continue to shine brightly as a light on the hill for all to see.
"That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the Scripture says, 'Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.' For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. For 'whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.'" Romans 10:9-13
Love you all,
Noelle
The Lord anointed the lips of Lucio as he delivered the gospel, and as Lucio spoke, I watched the people in the audience. Many who know the Lord nodded along as he delivered the message of repentance and salvation. Those people know the truth of the gospel and the power of God's word. (Amen!) Others in the audience starred intently at Lucio. They clung to the Holy Spirit's every word. Their eyes remained fixed upon where Lucio was standing, and you could see the power of the Lord working in them. When Lucio gave the alter call, it was those people who stepped forward. They stepped forward to receive the free gift of grace, to receive the Holy Spirit, to receive everlasting life. Glory to God in the highest!
One of the women to step forward was Rosa's older sister (see Wednesday's blog). She said that she felt something inside her, something she couldn't describe. It was the power of the Holy Spirit alive in her. This young woman has seen the effect God has had in her younger siblings' lives. She has seen their joy; she has seen the power of Jesus working in them. God has used Brazos de Amistad as a vessel to reach Rosa, Erica, Alondra, and Wendy, and in turn, He is using these young ones to plant seeds in the hearts of their other family members. How wonderful and awesome is He! We will continue to pray for those who received salvation last night. We pray that they will be on fire for the Lord, come to church, read His word, and minister to others in the community. There were many in the audience who are still in a pit of darkness and despair. You could see their conflicting emotions as Lucio spoke. You could see that they long to have what we all have, they long for the peace and joy of the Lord, but they are in bondage to sin, and they long to hold on to it as well. We also pray for them, and we pray for the ministry down there as they continue to shine brightly as a light on the hill for all to see.
"That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the Scripture says, 'Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.' For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. For 'whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.'" Romans 10:9-13
Love you all,
Noelle
Saturday, August 1, 2015
Day 10
For these past ten days, God has touched our hearts, and we seek to know His will for us, our church, and our future mission trips to Guadalajara.
I remember sitting in the Vintage Nursery amphitheater just a few short years ago, when Ana Davis made the first announcement about an upcoming mission trip to Guadalajara to work in a soup kitchen. I felt the Spirit nudge me as I sat there, listening to her. I had never been on a mission trip before; I had no idea who Ana was or what God had planned for me, but I knew something was stirring. Thus, I prayed, and I sought the Lord. A few months later, I signed up to be part of the first mission team. Since then, my eyes have been opened, my heart has been transformed, and my life has been changed forever.
God has knitted The Garden Fellowship and Calvary Chapel Guadalajara together. He called us there for a purpose, and we delight in His plan. It is exciting to see the ministry growing there; it is exciting to see how God has continued to raise up our church members to come alongside the various--and ever growing-- ministries at Brazos. It is exciting to think about what the future holds for our two churches. You have all been a part of this journey, in one way or another. Steve and Ana thank you, the mission team thanks you, and the men, women, and children of Brazos de Amistad and Calvary Chapel Guadalajara thank you. Praise God for all that He has done and continues to do! Sing praises of thanksgiving. Sing praises of joy, for He is Lord and He is good.
In the year to come, please continue pray for the men, women, and children of Brazos and CCG. Pray for wisdom as plans for the next mission trip unfold. Pray for The Garden Fellowship and its role in Guadalajara. God has a plan for each one of us, and I pray that you seek the Lord as He unveils that plan to you. As we know, there is great need in our own valley as well as in Mexico. Whatever God may call you to do, in whatever capacity, seek Him diligently, because it is for His glory that we serve Him.
God bless you church family,
Noelle
"But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. And above all things have fervent love for one another, for 'love will cover a multitude of sins.' Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen." 1 Peter 4:7-11