I’m sorry it’s been so long since the last blog! It’s been very busy, and the internet was not working for a while. Last week we went to a town called Baños so that some of the guys from the street ministry could be baptized. We drove way up into the mountain and stopped at a river called Rio Blanco. There, the guys were immersed and baptized! It was very special to be able to be there for this very important commitment in their lives. After that we were able to walk around the town, and on the ride home (in the back of the truck) we heard their testimonies. Many of them grew up in the streets and had very difficult childhoods. But at some point, the Lord sent His Holy Spirit to touch them and transform their lives! The other girls and I have been having a great time getting to know them.
This weekend the other girls and I also got the chance for a “mini-vacation.” We went back to Baños from Saturday to Sunday. We relaxed, ate some good food, walked around a very nice small town, and hiked up the mountain on a trail that leads to a famous statue of the virgin Mary. The view was spectacular, and pictures couldn’t even capture how it truly was! This particular town is in the middle of the Andes, the middle of what seems to be valleys. I always feel so small and powerless when compared to the majesty and power of God through His creation; especially these mountains and volcanoes.
Even though it may not sound like it, we did work as well! One of the baby boys went back with his mother, and another 1-week old baby came in. He had been given away at the hospital, and the person to whom he was given to sent him here. There was also another 7-year old boy who arrived last Thursday night. He had been badly beaten by his brother.
I’m still adjusting to the cold! It gets very chilly here at night, even sometimes during the day. The landscape is breath-taking, everywhere you go you can see patchwork mountains and low clouds. I can always use prayers for strength and against homesickness! So many random things remind me of my family and I think of them a couple times a day. Thank you all for your continued support and for being a part of this journey I’m on!
Jess what a wonderful wonderful thing to be able to be a part of these baptisms and hear of God's working in their lives! He is so good and His Spirit is at work everywhere. It is so uplifting to read about your experiences. Miss you so much but am so happy for you and proud, I have to admit! You are a precious and strong girl of God and I am blessed that God let me be your mom. I love the picture of the guy being baptised and he is under the water, with hands lifted high in praise to God! Alleluia, the picture says it all!!!!
ReplyDeletelove you my sweet girl
momma