Reflections

Some individual perspectives on the missions trip so far...

"Wow, this has been quite a trip! It is amazing what God has been doing here in El Paso. Today, (Monday) we went to a run dawn Pentecostal Church to renovate and repaint the interior. That was very fun and enjoyable (and messy)! Mr. G painted Eden's head mustard yellow! That was quite a site!!! Also we went to give away around $200 worth of toys and games to a group of kids. It really touched my heart when I saw the look of true, authentic joy and happiness. It was incredible. God is soo good!" ~ Cache Anderson

"God is Great! It's quite a site to see such a great city living on the border of one of the worst cities. Today, we went out to a Pentecostal Church and painted and renovated it. The pastor was so grateful. We also went out to dollar stores around town and bought about $200 worth of toys for kids who live in poverty. The site on there faces is one i will not forget! What God has done in El Paso and how he has done to protect it from what has happened to Juarez." ~ Brendan Klassen

"Tonight we got to hear from Pastor Armando and his wife Blanca about the terror and the triumph of Jaurez.  He and his family live and minister in Jaurez, a city where churches and pastors are being threatened continually by extortionists, where gang wars and violence have killed many and driven many people into hiding or as illegal immigrants into the US.  They shared stories of God's miraculous protection and encouragement as they have fervently prayed and fasted for protection, provision, and effective ministry.  They shared about a radio ministry they are running that is reaching at least 15,000 listeners a week who are spending more and more time in their homes, with little to do other than listen to their radios because of the danger outside.  I was so encouraged by the steadfast faith of our brothers and sisters in Christ who are not fleeing but are falling to their needs and pleading for God to work mightily.  We can't relate in our comfortable Canadian culture.  I pray that we won't have to... could I stand firm in my faith if it meant the exploiting of my home, my children being kidnapped for ransom, the loss of loved ones, or my own death...  God forbid I should be content to be comfortable and complacent because it is my 'brothers' house, my 'sisters' children, a stranger's life that is being lost and not my own.  Let's pray for our brothers and sisters in Jaurez and around the world."

"...praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints..."   Ephesians 6:18 ESV©

~ Pastor Nathan