Heart and Hands

Moving.... again.

2010-01-22T22:17:00.003-05:00

Austin, Texas .
More to come...

Stand at the crossroads and look...

2010-01-10T08:03:00.006-05:00

"Stand at the crossroads and look;
ask for the ancient paths,
ask where the good way is,
and walk in it,
and you will find rest for your souls."
~ Jeremiah 6:16

"I make known the end from the beginning
from ancient times,
what is still to come.
I say:
'My purpose will stand and I will do all that I please"

"See, the former things have taken place,
and new things I declare:
before they spring into being,
I announce them to you."

"Do you not know?
Have you not heard?
Has it not been told you from the beginning?
Have you not understood since the earth was founded?"

"The LORD is the Everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary...
those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength."
~Isaiah

Psalm 84

2009-11-08T17:48:00.006-05:00

"Blessed are those whose strength is in you,

who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. "

~Psalm 84

Buenas Dias from Peru!

2008-06-21T09:32:00.010-05:00

"He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible...all things were created by Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And He is the head of the body, the church; He is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything He might have supremacy. For God was pleased to have all His fullness dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things..." Colossians 1:15-20

News from the Church in Arequipa~
Hello from everyone in Arequipa!

It's been awhile since we have written a full newsletter, so we will try to catch you all up at one time- don't worry, we'll just give you the scoop in a nutshell!
We have been studying Genesis together- yes again!
It is so very rich- a book that speaks of our inheritance, birthed in the first People of God... dominion, redemption, obedience, faith, justice, sacrifice, the new creation- the Kingdom of God!
We are rejoicing as God reveals to us more and more and "giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness & brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves..." Colossians 1:12

Over the last few months, there have been many in our group who are walking through some tough times- would you pray for these situations as you read below?

~One brother has just been told he will lose his job in July. He is a faithful servant of Christ and is believing with all his heart for God's provision (along with his wife and 2 small children). His sincere faith is an inspiration and encouragement to the whole Body here. Please pray for this family.
~Another sister (a single mom) has endured some painful medical problems recently and is still waiting on a diagnosis. Praying God's light will reveal the problem and right it.
~And Julber... the tumors have grown back on his elbow, knee, and hip. He is in pain most days, and now his walking is being affected. He will most likely be undergoing surgery here in Arequipa in July. We will send more information when we know... Please pray for him-

Sometimes we wish we could tell you about each beautiful member of the Body of Christ that we love and are a part of here. The struggles they face and the victories that are won (like our sister Coki, whose brother has come to Jesus through her testimony from another city- we are believing her whole family isn't far behind !). They would encourage each of you in their "understanding of God's grace in all it's truth". For they know and believe that "...in Christ all the fullness of Deity lives in bodily form, and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is head over every power and authority." (Colossians 2:9-10)

God is so good in His timing! This is an exciting sight for missionaries... an airplane bringing dear friends (the peanut butter and other goodies are secondary of course!)

This past month we have be so blessed to have some great friends and fellow laborers visit us here. They each have ministered to the Body in a unique way and so we all have been "encouraged in heart" and "united in love" . We are so very thankful for their desire to share in the work and lives of the people here.

From the Church in Chincha~
Last month, Mike, Lee, Dori and our new friends Rebekah had the opportunity to return to Chincha for a short visit.
Pastor Pepe was so happy to see them and share news about the Church in Chincha. He sends his deepest thanks to all who helped with relief and rebuilding after the earthquake. Rebuilding is going quite well- you can see some pictures we attached below in a previous post...They also wanted to share something special with Mike, Lee and Dori, and Rebekah-

As they were returning from the conference we held in Arequipa in February, they were inspired to write a new song~

It was a beautiful offering as they played the guitar and drums and sang us this joyful song!
Please continue to pray for the Family in Chincha... may they "stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured".

Soon from Argentina and Chile~
Mike, Lee and our good friend will be leaving this Sunday to travel to Santiago, Chile and Mendoza, Argentina. They plan to meet with several brothers who minister through Bible Training Centers located throughout Argentina and Brazil. We are looking forward to building these relationships and hearing about the work the Lord is doing in these places. Please pray for this trip- that their eyes might be opened to see beyond the natural, and that they might be led by the Spirit and be discerning in all things. Update to come...

And finally, news from the Styron Family~
Last, but not least... news from our family...
After much prayer, we believe the Lord is again asking for our obedience in following Him to a "new land".
This has been a very difficult decision to make, as we so love our family here in Arequipa. We love the work the Lord has given us here and appreciate just how blessed we have been to have lived in this country for the last 4 years.
We are confident that this move is pleasing to the LORD and so we will be leaving Peru at the end of October. We will be in North Carolina for some time, as we continue to pray and seek God's path for the next steps.
We are sure in the calling and ministry God has entrusted to us. This has not changed !! We will continue to minister, both in the US and internationally, as God provides. We plan to return regularly to Arequipa and other parts of South America while in the US, continuing relationships and ministry among the people God has given us.
PLEASE pray for our family~
*For financial provision as we start all over again- (think cars, beds, pots and pans... all the basics. Yikes! )
*For grace- lots and lots of it!
*For God to bring people along side of us during this time who will desire to be a part of the work we will continue while living in the US.

How good it is to share with you all and know the prayers that will be made on behalf of the Church in all parts!

Grace and Peace be with you all~
The Styrons

Muchas Gracias!

2008-06-03T11:13:00.005-05:00

Pastor Pepe Gives Thanks from Chincha~

Mike, Lee & Dori recently returned from a trip to Lima & Chincha and brought with them this video of one of our friends from Chincha. We thought you all might like to "meet" this brother and hear how thankful he is to God and to all of you who helped him and his neighbors rebuild after the earthquake last August.

Below are also a few pictures of the church "building" where this family of believers meet together now. Many of them were able to come to Arequipa for the retreat we held here in February. They told us of how the Lord really used that time to teach them and they are seeking the Kingdom of God like never before. They even shared with Mike, Lee & Dori a beautiful song that they composed on the way home from the conference (inspired by a session on worship shared by the folks from "Enter the Worship Circle" ).

We'd like to also tell each one of you how much we appreciate the love you showed to our brothers & sisters in Peru and how abundant the fruit has been in that place.

Blessings to each one of you~ Mike & Chenoah

The "road" to Chincha...

The folks from Chincha singing a new song unto the LORD!
AMEN!

Llevame alla~

2008-05-15T11:26:00.005-05:00

Site of the Garden Tomb, Jerusalem

Isn't it the most wonderful place?

The place of rest and peace we find as we take the time to enter into the presence of our Lord? Where time stops and where burdens, fatigue and fears melt away? Where we, as sons and daughters of the Most High, sit and feast with the Messiah?

“Come unto me all you who labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest.” -Matthew 11:28

"The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul. "
-Psalm 23

Recently, we shared a very sweet night with the Church here in Arequipa, worshipping and praying and entering into His presence. We sang a song by Marco Barrientos called "No Voy a Volver Atras" that seemed in a small part at least, to capture this time ...

Llevame alla, donde se que habra paz-

Take me there- where I know there will be peace-

Donde tengo que callar, para escucharte hablar-

Where I have to be quiet to hear You speak-

Donde todo es realidad y el tiempo no existe mas...

Where everything is reality and time doesn't exist anymore...

A psalm of King David~

"Surely you have granted him eternal blessings and made him glad with the joy of your presence." -Psalm 21

Shalom~

Thank You!

2008-02-22T10:10:00.007-05:00

Thanks to all who have prayed, given, and come together to be a part of this gathering~

The Lord's presence was sweet during the whole week and we all were united in Him as we studied, prayed, and worshipped together, and simply enjoyed being in the company of our brothers and sisters.

**If you'd like to 'hear' a bit of the awesome music we enjoyed during the conference you can check out our new friends from 'Enter the Worship Circle' at: http://www.entertheworshipcircle.com/ , http://www.theblackthornproject.com/ , http://www.restorationvillage.com/ and http://www.aaronstrumple.com/ ,

or just go ahead and buy it on itunes!!

"May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all . "

Cosas Nuevas, Cosas Viejas Leadership Retreat

2008-02-08T14:38:00.000-05:00

"He said to them, 'Therefore every teacher of the law who has been instructed about the kingdom of heaven is like the owner of a house who brings out of his storeroom new treasures as well as old." ~Matthew 13:52

Hello Everyone~

Just a quick reminder that the "Cosas Nuevas, Cosas Viejas Leadership Retreat " will begin on Wednesday, February 13th.

We will be gathering with brothers and sisters from Peru, Chile, and Brazil for a wonderful time of teaching, preaching, worshipping, and taking time together as the family of God to celebrate our lives in Him. We are excited about what the Lord has begun here already and are looking forward to feasting in His presence during these next days!

We covet your prayers for the many aspects of this week...

We are praying for safe and problem-free :) travel for the many folks who are coming up the mountains, by bus and plane, to Arequipa-

We are praying for those who will be teaching, to have clarity, power and faith as they present those things which God has wrought in their hearts (old things & new);

and as we meet together, that "the manifold wisdom of God is made known to the authorities and rulers of the heavenly realms through His Church" !

We are praying for those who will be leading us in worshipping the Lord together, that the Spirit of Lord would move over the people, breaking all barriers of culture (since it is one culture truly, that of the Kingdom of God, uniting us) and language, and that all those seeking to worship Christ in Spirit and truth would be united by Christ alone & filled with joy.

There are so many things to pray about, but better yet, pray as the Lord reveals the needs to you!

We thank you for your prayers & for partnering with us.

I will be posting pictures & updates on the retreat as I can!

"My Father is always at His work to this very day..." John 5:17

Upright in Heart~ Psalm 32

2008-01-31T09:29:00.000-05:00

"Rejoice in the LORD, and be glad, you righteous. Sing all you who are upright in heart."

Just a thought today after reading Psalm 32~

(The Psalm is included at the bottom of this comment)

We can be "upright" in so many areas of our lives...

"upright" in our families

"upright" in our communities

"upright" where we work

"upright" among friends

"upright" in our churches

"upright" in our religiosity

and still not be upright in heart~

The hidden places we keep for ourselves...

Why do we choose ,as though we have no understanding, to be as the horse or the mule, needing the bit and bridle, to come to the LORD with our weaknesses and short comings?

And this, in light of His promise when we come to Him with our sin & strivings~

"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;

I will counsel you and watch over you."

May we come to the LORD and trust in Him~

Trust enough to acknowledge our sin and lay bare our iniquities before Him.

In doing this, we are blessed ... not cursed -

Our hearts will cry out with praise and joy ...naturally.

What freedom we have in our grip that we so casually ignore!

"Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered..."

"Sing, all you who are upright in heart..."

Not only has He covered our sins and forgiven our transgressions... He has

"forgiven the guilt of my sin"!!

"...The LORD's unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in Him..."

Rejoice in the LORD today!

How easy, when I think on these things, to sing Him a new song~

"for it is fitting for the upright in heart to praise Him".

Psalm 32~

"Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.

Blessed is the man whose sin the LORD does not count against him and in whose spirit is no deceit.

When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long.

For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer.

Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the LORD"-

and you forgave the guilt of my sin.

Therefore let everyone who is godly pray to you while you may be found;

surely when the mighty waters rise, they will not reach him.

You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.

Selah.

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;

I will counsel you and watch over you.

Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you.

Many are the woes of the wicked, but the LORD's unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in him.

Rejoice in the LORD and be glad, you righteous;

Sing all you who are upright in heart!

After the rain...

2008-01-26T09:10:00.002-05:00

Volcan Misti,
After the rain...

This is the view from our front steps...
Aren't we lucky!

It's Raining...It's Pouring (well, sort of!)

2008-01-25T18:06:00.000-05:00

It's raining here in Arequipa.

That doesn't happen much-

That wet stuff doesn't smell quite right-

Rain, rain go away!

A Thought on Discipleship

2008-01-21T15:02:00.001-05:00

"...His yoke is easy, and His burden is light... To go one's way under the sign of the cross is not misery and desperation, but peace and refreshment for the soul, it is the highest joy. Then we do not walk under our self-made laws and burdens, but under the yoke of Him who knows us and who walks under the yoke with us. Under His yoke we are certain of His nearness and communion. It is He whom the disciple finds as he lifts up his cross."

~Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Artwork by Carol Barber

2008-01-20T12:19:00.000-05:00

"The friend who attends the bridegroom waits & listens for Him,

and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom's voice..."

~John 3:29

Year In Pictures....

2008-01-13T11:17:00.001-05:00

A Beautiful Arequipa Sunset !!

Living the abundant life together~

Lake Titicaca- Puno, Peru

"Manos Unidos" work day~

We were the "padrinos" for this kindergarten graduation...

HAPPY HOLIDAYS...HAPPY HOLIDAYS...HAPPY HOLIDAYS...

What do you do when the turkey comes with ALL of it's parts? Take a picture of course!

Gotta love the clean-up crew !!

Alex & Dori are EXCITED about baking Christmas cookies!

Julber (and Tico) after Julber's graduation from his first year of school in the city!! Yeah Julber!!!

HAPPY New Year! And...our happy new casita!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-13T11:17:00.000-05:00

"But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him.
He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream.
It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green.
It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit. "
~Jeremiah 17:7-8

2007
For those of you we most recently have come to know, we count you among the great blessings that the LORD has given us this past year. It has been a very full year. We thank you all for your loving support of our work here and thought you might like to think on the fruit borne this year in the LORD.

~We have had the great joy of baptizing new believers into the Family and living as the Body of Christ together. This is abundant life!
~We were joined by brothers & sisters from many parts of the world this year, to bring encouragement, teaching, and unity in Christ, to the Church here in Peru and in Chile. We spent nearly a month traveling all over Peru and into northern Chile...What an adventure!
~We laboured with local churches in Arequipa- preaching the Kingdom of God and teaching about Jesus Christ.
~We were blessed to be a part of the life of a young man who came to intern with us for 6 months. He has gone back to the States now, but God is being glorified in his life and by his testimony that he has left here!
~The Lord allowed that we might be a part of bringing relief and hope to the people of Peru after the devastating earthquake in August. This work was heart-wrenching and rewarding at the same time... we felt blessed to be able to be here during that time (and continue to work toward rebuilding- on a smaller scale).
~Julber has overcome a huge challenge and completed his first year of school here in Arequipa. He is still suffering a lot from his illness & we all continue to pray for his healing. You can read more about Julber & how you might pray for him at: www.luke109.blogspot.com
~We were able to work on some local projects in our community- such as helping a local school for handicapped children (next door to Lee's old house) with a clean-up of the school, fresh paint, yard work, and a new fence. These were some great kids and very dedicated teachers! Everyone pitched in & we had a great time!
~We were honored to be a part of the marriage of Lee & Dori. This was a beautiful example of God's great love & faithfulness.
~We spent our first Christmas here in Peru- though we missed our friends and families, it was a great experience. We drank hot chocolate and ate Panatone (even though it was summer here)... and we shared our traditions with our friends here. We baked Christmas cookies together (something totally new for them- thanks for the cookie decorating goodies Val!), tried cranberry sauce (not a Peruvian favorite :), taught everyone how to cut out paper snowflakes, made gingerbread houses, sung "Let It Snow" and "Deck the Halls"- (doesn't translate so well!), and decorated our tree!
~And for those of you who don't know, we began the NEW year with a NEW home. Yes! The Styron's have once again moved during Christmas! We were able to find (definately a gift from God!) the cutest little house ever (with the cutest little rent ever)! We believe that there will be a lot of traveling this year, and this change will undoubtedly allow us the freedom to travel together more.

And so, we stretch out our "roots" toward the Stream, the Living Water, as we trust the LORD for the next year....

2008
And so begins a NEW Year!
We are very excited to be able to see already some of the work that has been set before us this year...

~We continue to pastor among God's people here in Arequipa from day to day... we are all studying and learning and growing together in grace & knowledge. The Lord has added to His Church & we are rejoicing to see the lasting fruit being borne within the Body.
~We are excited to have the opportunity to spend a focused time of discipleship with a young lady, a friend of Lee & Dori's, from North Carolina. She will be coming to spend 3 months with our group this spring.
~We are planning to travel again during the month of June... hopefully, as doors open, through southern Peru, northern Chile, and Argentina, "Proclaiming the year of the LORD's favor and the day of the vengence of our God" ~Isaiah 61:2.
~We also have an opportunity to travel to Israel... we are REALLY praying seriously about this & would appreciate your prayers as well.

AND...

"2008- New Wine, New Wineskin Retreat"
This is a very exciting time for all of us. The last retreat we held in October 2006 was an amazing time. The Lord provoked, equipped, and edified His Church during this time and we believe that He has set this time apart again to minister to the Church here in South America. We are expecting around 100 people from Peru, Chile, Argentina, Brazil, and the USA. Among this gathering will be 15-20 brothers and sisters from Chincha, Peru (this is the town where we ministered to many people after the earthquake).
The retreat will be held February 13-16. We appreciate your prayers and any contributions you would like to make toward this work.

Wishing you & your family a fruitful New Year!
We covet your prayers and appreciate your friendship. As always, we would love to hear from you anytime!

2008-01-08T16:17:00.001-05:00

November

2007-11-07T20:34:00.000-05:00

"Blessed are those you choose and bring near to live in your courts!
We are filled with the good things of your house, of your holy temple.
You answer us with awesome deeds of righteousness, O God our Savior,
the hope of all the ends of the earth and of the farthest seas...
You crown the year with your bounty..." ~from Psalm 65

November 2007

~With Thanksgiving...~
We'd like to thank all of you who welcomed us so warmly during our visit back to the States. God was so good to allow us to gather with some of our long time friends and enjoy the comfort of these friendships, but it was especially great to be able to meet many of you for the first time! We look forward to sharing together with you in the future the "good things of 'His' house", "the awesome deeds of righteousness" as He moves & works in this world, and Christ, "the Hope of all the ends of the earth and of the farthest seas".

~With Joy...~
And so with joy we return to Arequipa!
We are continuing to worship, pray, and study with believing friends in our homes. Everyone is excited as God is faithfully working among us & moving us onward. We are learning what it means to be His disciples- stretching to live by His Word and by His power and His mercies. It is a blessing to be a part of the Body of Christ with these people!
We are also still working together within churches here to fully grasp the Kingdom of God and how really living within it affects everything! As we advance, we are challenged by the stongholds of tradition and the ease in which those who are close to understanding can fall away. The singular authority of God and it's implications to one's life are not always such an easy pill to swallow. Please pray that these hindrances be destroyed and God's Kingship be established deeply in every heart.

~With great hope...~
As some of you may remember, we were able to share an amazing week with Christian pastors and leaders from all over Peru & Chile last year at a retreat we offered here in Arequipa. Over the past year, we have been visiting and building relationships with these new friends. Many of them deeply desire to study the Word of God and are eager to explore what it means as the people of God to live in His Kingdom here on earth. Once again, we believe it is timely to gather together corporately for a time of worship, teaching, and strengthening the Church! We are planning another retreat for the month of February. We will be joined by a wonderful group of teachers whose heart is to see the Church edified and equipped in every way. Also, we will be sharing in a special time of worship with a beautiful group of people whose joy it is to lead the Body into a sweet place of communion with the Lord. We hope to proclaim, provoke, equip, and encourage all who gather together for this week. We are praying for provision in many areas for this retreat. If you are interested in how you might help, please email or call us.

It is very good...

2007-10-18T13:20:00.000-05:00

"Come and see what God has done, how awesome His works in man's behalf!" ~Ps.66

It is official before God and man- our dear friends Lee & Dori are now,
Mr. & Mrs. Lee Williams !
Congratulations guys! We love you!

Rebuilding~

2007-09-22T13:56:00.000-05:00

Good News!

The rebuilding has begun-

Thanks to all of you, whom God has brought together at this time, we were able to purchase 10 two-room ,wood houses for 10 families in a neighborhood and are beginning construction on one brick and cement house this week.

Our family will be leaving on Thursday to travel first to Lima and then to Chincha. We will be visiting with the families who have received these houses, a few churches, and the many friends we have met there over the past few months.

We hope to post more pictures and another update soon. We will be traveling back to the States (NC) for three weeks after our visit in Chincha- We'd love to hear from you while we are there!

Photo (& Smile) of the day...

2007-09-12T14:34:00.000-05:00

In the midst of one of the dustiest, dirtiest places on earth... the sign outside of this house reads, "Wash your hands!"

Back from Chincha...

2007-09-06T14:48:00.000-05:00

We returned just a few days ago from our second trip to Chincha, one of the areas hardest hit by the earthquake that struck Peru on August 15th. Three weeks later and the sights are still overwhelming. People continue to live in the streets. Rubble is visible as far as the eye can see. Children still roam the streets, as many of the schools were badly damaged or completely destroyed during the earthquake. Many are still in shock, as the task of starting all over seems
so difficult. To be honest, to the human eye there seems to be little hope. Everything has been lost. An already poor people have become even poorer in just a three minute span…the duration of the earthquake three weeks ago.

Maybe you are wondering what we are doing in Chincha now. Thanks to all of you, this is how WE (together) were able to contribute... On our last trip we were able to purchase 20 more rolls of blanket material to distribute. This material was sufficient to make around 550 blankets. With people still living outside in the streets, warmth is a real issue. We also spent a good deal of time on this trip visiting with families and various communities to survey what the most pressing needs are now, three weeks later. After taking this time with the people, we believe that the most pressing need is physical help to rebuild. Many are waiting and hoping that the government will fulfill it’s promise to help with the reconstruction. In an ideal world, this would be something to get excited about. But realistically, in countries such as Peru, more times than not, the government never completes what it has promised. The truth is that there are over 200,000 people without homes now. Our group is small…we are not a large organization. Until now, our focus of ministry has not been earthquake relief. There was a need among the people we have come to love very much in this country and we wanted to help in the very best way we could.

We cannot help all with the rebuilding process, but thanks to your generosity we should be able to help 20-25 families. We are pursuing the idea of purchasing 20-25 prefabricated wood houses to take to Chincha in the next couple of weeks. These homes are very, very modest…about 125 sq feet. They are not a permanent fix, but are a good start. They are dry and warm…much better than the homes of plastic and cardboard in which many are currently living. Hope seems lost for so many of these people...and really, that is true! In the natural, there is no hope for them to live with joy, and laughter, and anticipation of a future. Thankfully, God is not a god of the natural. God is merciful and has a plan for Chincha and the surrounding areas.

“…Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens.” The words “once more” indicate the removing of what can be shaken-that is, created things-so that what cannot be shaken may remain. “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our “God is a consuming fire.” Hebrews 12:26-29 NIV

Chincha and the surrounding areas are well known for being some of the most idolatrous areas of Peru. Idolatry, witchcraft and crime run rampant in these towns...but, God is full of grace. Yes, He has shaken the land! Temples have fallen and idols have been destroyed. If we look, we will see that now, there is a great Hope among these people. They now have the opportunity to turn away from these created things and set their sights on things that cannot be shaken. Many will choose to rebuild their temples (before rebuilding their own houses) and make offerings to their idols. They will continue to take their sick children to shamans(witch doctors) and live in fear and uncertainty. The people of Chincha have a decision to make. Choose to trust what can be shaken... or choose Hope. The hope of a new beginning, the hope of a fresh start and the hope to rebuild…with the foundation being God and Christ as the chief cornerstone. A new building…an eternal building…a building that cannot be shaken!

So, if there is anyone that would still like to help…it is not too late. As long as the funds are available, we will continue to help the people of Chincha in the process of rebuilding. Thanks to all of you that have given. You truly have made a difference.

Thank you~

The Lord bless you.
Mike

Chincha- 2 Weeks Later

2007-09-02T21:00:00.000-05:00

2007-09-01T11:37:00.000-05:00

'For as the soil makes the sprout come up and a garden causes seeds to grow, so the Sovereign LORD will make righteousness and praise spring up before all nations.'

Hello Everyone~
Thank you all so much for your faithful prayers.

Today has produced, of more value than anything else, several new friendships that have deeply affected everyone. Mike, Alex, Lee & Michael spent much of the day today with several new friends. These are Pastors from Chincha and Hoja Redonda. These men shared their lives with the group today~ their fears, their questions, their hopes and their faith. As they gathered together, there was a real bond of brotherhood in what they had shared in... Men with no homes, no jobs, young families, and great burdens for all those in their care, who are living through the same trials. They talked together, and prayed together, and laughed together, and ate together, and planned for the future together, and rejoiced that the Lord had gathered them at this time.

'Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.'

Though the task is quite daunting, and everyone has times of feeling completely overwhelmed by what they see, the relationships that have been made today make it impossible to be too tired, or too cold, or too frustrated with the speed of movement in this country to be disheartened...Today was spent preparing and planning for the future! Rebuilding...Restoring...Renewing.

Wherever the presence of the Holy Spirit is, there is hope... there is a future... there is a garden growing somewhere that causes praise to spring up from the depths of our souls.

'Therefore, holy brothers, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus...whom we confess.'

Chenoah

Treasures in the Rubble

2007-08-30T22:22:00.000-05:00

"Praise be to God!...In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope...and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade-"
~I Peter 1:3-4

Hello Everyone~
Once again the guys are back in Chincha, and I am gladly sharing with all of you, who are laboring right along with us in prayer and giving, their journey.

Treasures in the rubble...
Tonight, I am rejoicing in a beautiful treasure that Mike, Alex, Lee and Michael found in the midst of the ugliest place they have been to yet! Earlier this afternoon when I talked to Mike, the whole group was feeling exhausted and a bit overwhelmed with the needs of the people in Chincha. They met again with a large group of Pastors from the area to discuss and organize the most efficient way to continue the distribution of supplies. There are still lots and lots of people sleeping in the streets with little to no shelter. It is very cold there at night and there is so much suffering.
Late in the afternoon, they were able to meet with a group from a church there. They met in the middle of a vacant street, as the church building was destroyed. Again, they were met with such despair and need. The people were grateful to receive the supplies and the guys were able to pray for and encourage them a bit, but they left feeling the same burden and tiredness with the gravity of the situation still there.

After this, they picked up a friend, Pastor Luis, who took them about 15 miles outside of Chincha, to the small town of Hoja Redonda. 95% of the town was built of adobe and nearly everything in the entire town was destroyed. There literally is nothing left standing. Because the town is so "far" out, they have received almost NO help at all. These guys have seen a lot of devastation, but this by far was the worst yet. What could they say to these people? Again, they were faced with the knowledge that they could not help everyone... and these people needed everything!

What they did not know however, is that the people of God, in Hoja Redonda, having nothing in this world, had a sweet, sweet gift to give to our group. JOY!
Just as before, they gathered together in the street, but this time there was something different. The people they met here were HAPPY! With absolutely total destruction in every direction, these people were filled with hope! And of course, it was contagious! Tiredness and feelings of helplessness were forgotten and a happy reunion of friends old and new took place in the midst of piles of rubble. They asked Lee to preach and everyone was encouraged by God's tender words for the night. They went tonight to meet the needs of the people in this town, and God chose to meet the needs of their hearts through this precious family of believers. I think this is a night they will remember for a long time to come!

Plans for tomorrow...
Tomorrow, the plan is to finish distributing the supplies they brought and continue to do some long term planning for rebuilding. They will be meeting with others to coordinate the work. They are also hoping to visit Hoja Redonda again tomorrow, too~
~Chenoah
"Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all ye that HOPE in the Lord."
"Therefore, the redeemed of the Lord will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away."

Guadalupe

2007-08-30T08:43:00.000-05:00

News photo from article below.

The guys are on their way to Chincha this morning~
I am including a news article I read last night... a good example of how much more there is to be done!
12k People in Guadalupe Town in Ica, Peru Forgotten After Earthquake
The coordinator for the international humanitarian aid organization, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), has stated that the 12,000 inhabitants in the town of Guadalupe have been forgotten by those that are providing aid. It was pointed out that two weeks after the violent earthquake, the town is in a "precarious and unacceptable" situation." They are receiving clothes, food and water, but almost two weeks after the earthquake on August 15, tents have not been distributed. People are living in shelters made of cardboard and plastic," stated MSF coordinator, Luis Encinas. MSF reported that on August 25, a team carried out a quick analysis in the town of Guadalupe, southeast of Pisco and 325 km south of Lima. It was reported that up to 95% of the houses had been destroyed in the town center and 60% in the surrounding areas. Thus amounting to a total of 3,500 destroyed houses. The MSF team also reported that most of the 10,200 affected people are living in shelters made up of cardboard and bed sheets, lacking latrines and living in poor hygiene conditions.

"The Hope of all the ends of the earth..."

2007-08-29T13:36:00.000-05:00

Houses destroyed in Chincha, Peru (top)
After earthquake & tsunami in Pisco, Peru

Wow!

There is so much to tell and so many thank-yous to give. I do need to say how very grateful I am to each and everyone of you that has taken the time to lift us and this country up in prayer during this difficult time. Also, to all of you that have given, I want to say a very heart-felt thank you. You have blessed so many lives by your generosity. You will never know how much of an impact that you have made in the lives of so many that you do not even know. My prayer for each of you is that you will be blessed as you have blessed others.

What a week! We just returned Thursday night from our trip to Chincha and Pisco helping the victims of the massive 8.0 earthquake that struck the coast of Peru 10 days ago. We arrived in Chincha three days after the initial quake that killed over 500 and destroyed or damaged well over 50% of all homes and businesses in the area. On our first night, we had to evacuate the hotel twice because of the aftershocks....many of which were quite strong (6.0). We returned to our candle-lit accommodations to try to rest, which was quite difficult between the aftershocks and the distant (and somtimes, not so distant) sound of gunfire. A prison had been destroyed during the quake and therefore more than six hundred prisoners were running the streets of Chincha. Needless to say, we all slept very lightly with flashlights in hand those first couple of nights.

The next morning, we met with representatives with Food for the Hungry and a team of missionaries from Lima to try and organize the local churches and begin distributing food to the communities. Chincha is a city of about 250,000 people with more than 100 local congregations. Because we were familiar with the area, our team was able to organize a meeting in the afternoon between 40 local pastors and the representatives of this relief organization. The meeting was a success and should be very helpful in creating some sort of long-term care in the area. However, it did not take us long to realize that immediate help was not anywhere close to coming. As with any large organization, it takes time to mobilize and act. These people need long-term care, and groups like Food for the Hungry, Samaritan's Purse and the Red Cross are going to be there to provide that for them. However, these people also need immediate help. And thanks to you all, we were able to be there to provide that for them. During our time there, we were able to distribute over 1000 kilos of rice, 1000 kilos of pasta, 2000 liters of potable water, 1000 liters of milk, 500 kilos of sugar, cases of tuna fish, cases of crackers and baby food. In addition, we gave out other items such as matches, candles, first aid supplies and bleach. We also distributed over 100 blankets, hundreds of meters of plastic for shelter and foam for bedding. In a city of 250,000, this may not seem like much...but believe me, in a time of crisis such as this, this was a tremendous help.

So, where do we go from here? Well, we are planning on a return trip. We have already purchased tickets for this Wednesday. We will go back to Chincha and do whatever we can to help. We spoke to a friend today who lives there. According to her, some help has started to arrive, however there are still many areas on the outskirts of town that are being neglected. We plan to go back with whatever funds that we still have and continue to try to meet some of the basic needs of these people.

Thanks for your generosity and thanks for your prayers. We will try to keep you informed as this week goes along.

Blessings to you all.

"...so that we may comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God." ~2 Corinthians 1:4