Making a Video!

Last week we were fortunate enough to have two volunteers with us in the community for the day. They are students at a University in Seattle and have been here for three months studying English. Both of them radiate God’s love and love for the people here. We had seen a video that they had put together about their volunteer work with the University here in Guatemala, and were very impressed. They then informed us that they wanted to also do one for us! Having a video is something we’ve thought of doing for a while, but have not had the chance. The girls had all of the equipment, and we spent all day Monday traveling from project to project, home to home to record what smallchangeforbigchange is all about, as well as to interview. The entire day was special because normally we don’t have the chance to be with all of our most special families and students at once! We were reminded, once again, how

important these people are to us. It is such a privilege to be used by God in this way. I most of the time feel so very inadequate and that I don’t know what it is that He has me doing here. But I am certain this is where He wants me.

Last Friday there was also a ceremony given by the municipality of the community we work in, Santa Catarina Barahona, to give a thank you to the organization and donor for providing the 50 stoves in the area. It was a humbling experience and so kind of them do it. The mayor had a small ceremony, spoke some words, and then had us speak some words as well. They gave both Lisa and I a painting and a letter of gratitude.

My friends that were involved in the stabbing have recuperated quickly, thank the Lord. Unfortunately, Daniel is still waiting for his vision back in his left eye. The doctors have not told him whether or not it is certain he will regain sight, but as of right now he has none. I believe that only a miracle from God can heal him. It is almost frustrating to know that the Lord has the power to do it, but has not done it yet. I trust His plan, but it is still painful. Please continue praying for Daniel.

Stove Installations and Luis' English Training

Well the first 25 stoves from the donation for 50 have been installed! There were 25 incredibly special families, who were blown away by the goodness of God in giving them a stove. They first all met to pick up their own blocks (12 are needed for each stove) and they took them to their homes so that they would take a part in the process. Then through the following week the rest of the stoves were installed in their homes. The purpose is not only to meet the basic needs of the people, but to also let them know that God has not forgotten about them. He meets their needs. I wish there was a way to have a daily relationship with each of these people, but since there are so many you have to cherish the time with them. It is also special to be able to spend time with each family, and learn their history and get to know each person. The next 25 are scheduled to begin within the next few weeks; starting with home visits next week.

On a different note, these past few days have been somewhat painful. Without giving a lot of details, a couple friends of mine were involved in an unwarranted accident where one was stabbed in the back, and the other was in serious condition in the hospital because of stab wounds in his stomach and to his eye. Up until today, they thought they were going to have to remove his eye. It was devastating, as you can imagine, to these families and to these young men. Life can be very cruel here, as anywhere, and truly the only answer is Christ. People will do evil things without any remorse. Please keep these two in your prayers, that God would give them healing of their bodies but also of their spirits, and not re-live these memories in their heads.

Luis Pedro, who is the teenager that takes care the aquaponic garden, has begun his English training at the school called Máximo Nivel. It is a two year intensive program, and I cannot imagine a better student for this opportunity! Not only is Luis smart, but picks up English quickly. He wants to learn English more than any other student I met. I am very grateful, as is he, to his sponsor!

Thank you always for prayers of support and of protection.