Currently planned speaking engagements while I am back in the US (Dec 17-Feb 2):
January 10 at 6:00 pm - Kansas City First Church of the Nazarene (Kansas City, MO)
January 17 at 9:30 am - College Church of the Nazarene (SS Class of Larry Haffey - Olathe, KS)
January 24 at 6:00 pm - West Chester Church of the Nazarene (West Chester, OH)
January 31 at 10:45 am - Southwood Church of the Nazarene (Raytown, MO)
I still have some open space if anyone knows of any other opportunities. I look forward to being able to get together with each one of you while I am back in the US.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Sunday, October 4, 2009
God Fulfills His Promises...No Matter How Crazy They Sound!
This weekend was packed with Church activities.
Friday
I had the pleasure of attending a birthday party of the children in San Miguel. San Miguel is one of the 3 local preaching points started by Zamacola, the church I attend. Zamacola has set a goal for each of these church plants, by August of next year, to have at least 15 members ages 12 and older.
The poorer children in Peru don't often get birthday parties, because their families can't afford it. So, the purpose of this celebration was to make the children feel special, and at the same time invite the parents in to show them what has been going on. While the children were outside, Pastor Solano had the opportunity to share a simple gospel message with the 5 mothers in attendance. All five accepted Christ, and have agreed to begin meeting every week to learn more about Christ. It is neat to see the gospel message so readily accepted. These women will form the base for the Church in this location.
Saturday
Saturday morning, I remembered that it was my week to teach Sunday school at Chachani on Sunday. So, I spent the morning beginning to prepare for this. I didn't have much time to work on this however, because I was to be back at church by 2 pm, for the final youth quiz meet.
Quizzing was a very important part of learning about the Bible when I was growing up, so it was so neat to see the youth from the 4 Nazarene churches in Arequipa participating in this. And it was great to also see Zamacola win!
After the quiz meet, they had a time of recreation in the park with all of the churches. It was nice to be able to get to know the youth from the other churches, and especially in such a fun way. I played volleyball with a mixed group from all of the churches. Although I am not great at it, it was still fun.
I thought after sports, the church day was over, but it was just beginning! Next, came the festival of music. It was a time for all of the youth to be able to worship together. Each church took turns leading worship. It was definitely a fun but spiritual time.
After church, a group of friends from Church and I, went out to eat, and were able to just laugh and eat together. Perfect ending to the day.
Sunday
I woke up early in order to finish getting the lesson ready. Going on little sleep, I did manage to get to church on time, and with a lesson prepared. Unfortunately, I lost my cell phone in the process :( But, it was a great day of worshipping the Lord! Sunday school and the church service were both very good.
In the afternoon, I headed up to Chachani, another one of Zamacola's preaching points. When I get there, I see there is another celebration going on in the main square of the community where we normally hold Sunday school. Only this celebration is not being held by the church. I don't know completely what was going on, but I could see a little figurine surrounded by flowers and they were singing and dancing all around it. It appeared to be a celebration to an idol of some sort. I began to teach the children anyway, sometimes having to repeat myself due to the loud celebration going on near by. The children stayed focused (well, at least as much as normal), and God was able to work in the lesson despite what was going on around us. It was a really reminder about the difficulties faced in life. Idols and other religions aren't just something talked about in the Bible, but something that is faced in life by many people. A battle is being faced here in Peru, and across the world. I am glad I am on God's side.
God's Plan
Around 3 years ago, I was going through a tough time with the church. It all seemed very fake, and full of programs and useless junk. It was during this time that God spoke to me, and He said, "Kindra, one day you are going to help start a church." I really just laughed it off, thinking it was just a crazy idea in my head, but it continued on for several weeks. I never did anything about it, nor said anything about it to anyone, thinking that it was nuts. Quite honestly, I completely forgot about it until God reminded me this weekend about that promise of several years ago. And He said, "See, you thought I was crazy, but look at what you are doing! You personally are involved with several church plants, and you are working with Extreme whose goal is to plant 120 more!"
I am so glad that I am not in charge of this life, because He knows so much more than I do. Lord, help me to grow my faith in you, and to use this as a reminder that You will fulfill all of your promises.
Friday
I had the pleasure of attending a birthday party of the children in San Miguel. San Miguel is one of the 3 local preaching points started by Zamacola, the church I attend. Zamacola has set a goal for each of these church plants, by August of next year, to have at least 15 members ages 12 and older.The poorer children in Peru don't often get birthday parties, because their families can't afford it. So, the purpose of this celebration was to make the children feel special, and at the same time invite the parents in to show them what has been going on. While the children were outside, Pastor Solano had the opportunity to share a simple gospel message with the 5 mothers in attendance. All five accepted Christ, and have agreed to begin meeting every week to learn more about Christ. It is neat to see the gospel message so readily accepted. These women will form the base for the Church in this location.
Saturday
Saturday morning, I remembered that it was my week to teach Sunday school at Chachani on Sunday. So, I spent the morning beginning to prepare for this. I didn't have much time to work on this however, because I was to be back at church by 2 pm, for the final youth quiz meet.
Quizzing was a very important part of learning about the Bible when I was growing up, so it was so neat to see the youth from the 4 Nazarene churches in Arequipa participating in this. And it was great to also see Zamacola win!After the quiz meet, they had a time of recreation in the park with all of the churches. It was nice to be able to get to know the youth from the other churches, and especially in such a fun way. I played volleyball with a mixed group from all of the churches. Although I am not great at it, it was still fun.
I thought after sports, the church day was over, but it was just beginning! Next, came the festival of music. It was a time for all of the youth to be able to worship together. Each church took turns leading worship. It was definitely a fun but spiritual time.
After church, a group of friends from Church and I, went out to eat, and were able to just laugh and eat together. Perfect ending to the day.
Sunday
I woke up early in order to finish getting the lesson ready. Going on little sleep, I did manage to get to church on time, and with a lesson prepared. Unfortunately, I lost my cell phone in the process :( But, it was a great day of worshipping the Lord! Sunday school and the church service were both very good.
In the afternoon, I headed up to Chachani, another one of Zamacola's preaching points. When I get there, I see there is another celebration going on in the main square of the community where we normally hold Sunday school. Only this celebration is not being held by the church. I don't know completely what was going on, but I could see a little figurine surrounded by flowers and they were singing and dancing all around it. It appeared to be a celebration to an idol of some sort. I began to teach the children anyway, sometimes having to repeat myself due to the loud celebration going on near by. The children stayed focused (well, at least as much as normal), and God was able to work in the lesson despite what was going on around us. It was a really reminder about the difficulties faced in life. Idols and other religions aren't just something talked about in the Bible, but something that is faced in life by many people. A battle is being faced here in Peru, and across the world. I am glad I am on God's side.God's Plan
Around 3 years ago, I was going through a tough time with the church. It all seemed very fake, and full of programs and useless junk. It was during this time that God spoke to me, and He said, "Kindra, one day you are going to help start a church." I really just laughed it off, thinking it was just a crazy idea in my head, but it continued on for several weeks. I never did anything about it, nor said anything about it to anyone, thinking that it was nuts. Quite honestly, I completely forgot about it until God reminded me this weekend about that promise of several years ago. And He said, "See, you thought I was crazy, but look at what you are doing! You personally are involved with several church plants, and you are working with Extreme whose goal is to plant 120 more!" I am so glad that I am not in charge of this life, because He knows so much more than I do. Lord, help me to grow my faith in you, and to use this as a reminder that You will fulfill all of your promises.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Friends and Family in the US
Recently, I have been thinking a lot about my friends and family back in the states. I have received news of friends moving, getting engaged, getting married, getting pregnant, and having children. I have also heard of major life threatening illnesses among close family members. I have had to really entrust my friends and family to God during this time, because I can rejoice with them or pray with them, but I am helpless to do anything else from this far away. Some days, I ask God why he moved me here, and other days, I know exactly why God has me here. I know that they are all in God's hands, and that is the best place they can be.
I am greatly looking forward to coming back to the US for a visit, and to be able to share with my friends and family back there, what God is doing here in Peru. I will be back in the US from December 17-February 2. I am working on setting up speaking engagements with different churches or organizations. If you are interested in having me share what God is doing with your church, please let me know. My schedule is currently pretty open. One that I am really looking forward to is at KC First Church on Sunday evening, January 10. This is the church I began attending when I was 9 years old, and so it will be great to share with this church family.
I would also like to get together with as many friends and family members as possible while I am back to catch up on your lives and just reconnect. I have missed all of you, and all of you are so important to me, that it will be great to be able to be together again. Please email me, and we can set up a time to get together.
I love each and every one of you, and am grateful for the impact you have made on my life. I would not be where I am today with out you.
I am greatly looking forward to coming back to the US for a visit, and to be able to share with my friends and family back there, what God is doing here in Peru. I will be back in the US from December 17-February 2. I am working on setting up speaking engagements with different churches or organizations. If you are interested in having me share what God is doing with your church, please let me know. My schedule is currently pretty open. One that I am really looking forward to is at KC First Church on Sunday evening, January 10. This is the church I began attending when I was 9 years old, and so it will be great to share with this church family.
I would also like to get together with as many friends and family members as possible while I am back to catch up on your lives and just reconnect. I have missed all of you, and all of you are so important to me, that it will be great to be able to be together again. Please email me, and we can set up a time to get together.
I love each and every one of you, and am grateful for the impact you have made on my life. I would not be where I am today with out you.
Other Ministry Opportunities
I am blessed to be able to use many of my talents and abilities to further God's kingdom in Peru. Below is an overview of some of the things that I have been able to be involved with.
The Office
When most people think about spending hours a day staring at code on a computer, they think about boredom, and would rather jump off the roof. I love it! I am truly honored to be able to use my skills to help others to be able to use theirs. It isn't always easy with computer problems, disagreements with co-workers, illness, deadlines that aren't met, and too much work to do in too little time, but most days, I love what I do. Please pray that God would allow our team to work together more smoothly, in order to be able to do His work effectively.
Bible Quizzing
They recently began doing youth and children's bible quizzing. It was neat to see my kids from Chachani, who are brand new Christians, study and do very well with children's bible quizzing. This was their first year, and although they didn't win the competition, they learn a lot more about Christ. I was also asked to be a part of the youth quiz team. Here a youth is between 12-40 or so. I decided with everything else I had going on and with it being done in Spanish, that it would be better if one of the other youth from the church took my spot. But, I have loved watching it and teaching them tricks I learned from quizzing when I was younger. It has been great to see them doing something that helped me learn so much about God. Please pray that they will be able to learn as much from quizzing as I did, and that it will help to solidify their relationship with God.
Chachani
In Peru, a church is not a full church, until it has planted at least one other church. Every church in Arequipa is in the process of planting at least one other church. Zamacola is in the process of planting several. Pastor Solano has recently decided to become more intentional about the work in Chachani and the other outreach ministries of the church. Chachani, Bedoya, and San Miguel are all now officially on level 1 of the church planting scale. These are called preaching points. We have a goal of having at least 15 members (12 and older) in the next year, in order to move to level 2. It has been neat for me to look at it through these lenses, and to be more intentional about the work there. God is doing great things in this community, and am excited to see what the next year will bring. Please pray for the teachers and students at Chachani, and that God will help a church to form in this community.
English class
Since the projects have ended, I have restarted teaching English. About 2 days a week, I have anywhere from 1-5 friends from the church come over to learn English. They are at various skill levels, which proves challenging at times, but it has been neat for me to do. I have struggled learning their language, so I have a lot of compassion when I am teaching them. It also has helped me to improve my Spanish skills. Please pray that I have the words to say to teach them effectively, and that our relationships will strengthen through this time together.
The Office
When most people think about spending hours a day staring at code on a computer, they think about boredom, and would rather jump off the roof. I love it! I am truly honored to be able to use my skills to help others to be able to use theirs. It isn't always easy with computer problems, disagreements with co-workers, illness, deadlines that aren't met, and too much work to do in too little time, but most days, I love what I do. Please pray that God would allow our team to work together more smoothly, in order to be able to do His work effectively.Bible Quizzing
They recently began doing youth and children's bible quizzing. It was neat to see my kids from Chachani, who are brand new Christians, study and do very well with children's bible quizzing. This was their first year, and although they didn't win the competition, they learn a lot more about Christ. I was also asked to be a part of the youth quiz team. Here a youth is between 12-40 or so. I decided with everything else I had going on and with it being done in Spanish, that it would be better if one of the other youth from the church took my spot. But, I have loved watching it and teaching them tricks I learned from quizzing when I was younger. It has been great to see them doing something that helped me learn so much about God. Please pray that they will be able to learn as much from quizzing as I did, and that it will help to solidify their relationship with God.Chachani
In Peru, a church is not a full church, until it has planted at least one other church. Every church in Arequipa is in the process of planting at least one other church. Zamacola is in the process of planting several. Pastor Solano has recently decided to become more intentional about the work in Chachani and the other outreach ministries of the church. Chachani, Bedoya, and San Miguel are all now officially on level 1 of the church planting scale. These are called preaching points. We have a goal of having at least 15 members (12 and older) in the next year, in order to move to level 2. It has been neat for me to look at it through these lenses, and to be more intentional about the work there. God is doing great things in this community, and am excited to see what the next year will bring. Please pray for the teachers and students at Chachani, and that God will help a church to form in this community.English class
Since the projects have ended, I have restarted teaching English. About 2 days a week, I have anywhere from 1-5 friends from the church come over to learn English. They are at various skill levels, which proves challenging at times, but it has been neat for me to do. I have struggled learning their language, so I have a lot of compassion when I am teaching them. It also has helped me to improve my Spanish skills. Please pray that I have the words to say to teach them effectively, and that our relationships will strengthen through this time together.1 Year in Peru and Another Year Older
Things definitely can change in a year. One year ago, I had just had a big surprise birthday party with my friends and family, and was preparing to head to Peru. Fast forward one year. I just finished having a "surprise" birthday party with my Peruvian friends and church family, and this Friday I will be celebrating one year in Peru.
I was a little worried about celebrating my birthday in Peru. Last year, I had such a grand celebration, that I thought that whatever happened it would fail in comparison. But, as it turned out, although very different, I enjoyed this year just as much. I was fortunate to have the day off on my birthday, and was able to eat lunch with my Peruvian friends/family from church. We then spent the afternoon together watching cheesy horror movies, and just spending time together. Then that night, they threw a party for me, and about 15 friends showed up. It was a "surprise" party. They were so excited about it, that they were really bad at making it a surprise, but that just made it mean more. This group of people is so special to me. Peru would not be the same with out them.
As I reflect on the last year, things have certainly changed. I remember arriving in Peru, scared out of my mind. I sold everything I owned, quit my job, left my family and friends, and came to Peru. It was just God and I. Through this year, God has helped me to learn the language and they culture, make friends, minister to people, use my gifts and abilities to further his kingdom, and grow in my relationship with him. I call it a successful year.
I don't know what God has in store for the next year, but I will follow God wherever He leads.
I was a little worried about celebrating my birthday in Peru. Last year, I had such a grand celebration, that I thought that whatever happened it would fail in comparison. But, as it turned out, although very different, I enjoyed this year just as much. I was fortunate to have the day off on my birthday, and was able to eat lunch with my Peruvian friends/family from church. We then spent the afternoon together watching cheesy horror movies, and just spending time together. Then that night, they threw a party for me, and about 15 friends showed up. It was a "surprise" party. They were so excited about it, that they were really bad at making it a surprise, but that just made it mean more. This group of people is so special to me. Peru would not be the same with out them.
As I reflect on the last year, things have certainly changed. I remember arriving in Peru, scared out of my mind. I sold everything I owned, quit my job, left my family and friends, and came to Peru. It was just God and I. Through this year, God has helped me to learn the language and they culture, make friends, minister to people, use my gifts and abilities to further his kingdom, and grow in my relationship with him. I call it a successful year.
I don't know what God has in store for the next year, but I will follow God wherever He leads.
40/40s...Young Adults Changing the World
For those who don't know what 40/40 is, let me explain. 40/40 is an idea that originated with Jesus. Jesus sent his disciples out in pairs to follow his example. That is the essence of this program. There are 40 single non-peruvians paired with 40 single peruvians, and they go through bible and church planting training together. Then, each pair is sent out to plant 3 churches, and to be Christ to the people. These 40 pairs are then spread out among 7 cities with 4-6 pairs 
per city, and each city has a family that serves as support for the 40/40 pairs within that city.
The first group of 4 40/40 pairs is currently in Iquitos finishing up their training, and will arrive in Puerto Maldonado in November to share God's light with this dark place. Within the next 2 years, there will be 12 new churches in this region! These pairs have grown so much in the close to 9 months of training they have had so far. I am excited to see how God uses them in this dark city.
The second group of non-Peruvian 40/40s, along with a cluster support family, arrived in Arequipa for language training the end of August. They will be in Arequipa through November, and then they will meet up with their Peruvian partner and head up to Iquitos for Bible and
church planting training. 6 of these 40/40s, along with the new cluster support family, will stay in Iquitos after training and plant 18 churches in the Iquitos area. Please pray for them: The Simpson Family, Katie Brandt, Melissa Sutherland, Brittany Hart, Drew Kaminski, Brad Wall, and Kevin Snodgrass. The other 6 of these 40/40s, along with the Fosters, will go to Pucallpa, another jungle city, after training to plant 18 more churches. Ryan and Sarah Foster were the first volunteers I met when I arrived in Peru, and helped me to survive the first few months I was here. I also have worked with Ryan in IT for the last 9 months. They have recently accepted the cluster support position, and will be heading to the jungle with Katie Anderson, Kristina Andrews, Laura Benson, Tabetha Pinks, Gary Crites, and Timothy Mong. Please also pray for this group.
The third and final group of 40/40s and cluster support families (24 40/40s and 4 cluster support families) will arrive in February. There are still may open positions. If you or someone you know, feel led by God to come to Peru to plant churches, please visit http://www.extremenazarene.org/4040 for more info. This is a difficult job, but one that God can and will use to further his kingdom here in Peru.
per city, and each city has a family that serves as support for the 40/40 pairs within that city.The first group of 4 40/40 pairs is currently in Iquitos finishing up their training, and will arrive in Puerto Maldonado in November to share God's light with this dark place. Within the next 2 years, there will be 12 new churches in this region! These pairs have grown so much in the close to 9 months of training they have had so far. I am excited to see how God uses them in this dark city.
The second group of non-Peruvian 40/40s, along with a cluster support family, arrived in Arequipa for language training the end of August. They will be in Arequipa through November, and then they will meet up with their Peruvian partner and head up to Iquitos for Bible and
church planting training. 6 of these 40/40s, along with the new cluster support family, will stay in Iquitos after training and plant 18 churches in the Iquitos area. Please pray for them: The Simpson Family, Katie Brandt, Melissa Sutherland, Brittany Hart, Drew Kaminski, Brad Wall, and Kevin Snodgrass. The other 6 of these 40/40s, along with the Fosters, will go to Pucallpa, another jungle city, after training to plant 18 more churches. Ryan and Sarah Foster were the first volunteers I met when I arrived in Peru, and helped me to survive the first few months I was here. I also have worked with Ryan in IT for the last 9 months. They have recently accepted the cluster support position, and will be heading to the jungle with Katie Anderson, Kristina Andrews, Laura Benson, Tabetha Pinks, Gary Crites, and Timothy Mong. Please also pray for this group.The third and final group of 40/40s and cluster support families (24 40/40s and 4 cluster support families) will arrive in February. There are still may open positions. If you or someone you know, feel led by God to come to Peru to plant churches, please visit http://www.extremenazarene.org/4040 for more info. This is a difficult job, but one that God can and will use to further his kingdom here in Peru.
Short Term Projects Are In Full Swing!
In the last two months since I have written (sorry about that), there have been two short term projects completed, and one that is taking place right now! As a part of the administrative team, I am not as involved in these projects as others, but the first two were in Arequipa, where I live, so I tried to participate as much as my schedule would allow. Below, I will summarize the projects briefly, if you wish to see more information on these projects, please click the name of the project below.
Extreme Peru: Arequipa 0 (July 16-29, 2009)
35 volunteers from across the United States, came down to Peru for two weeks to be the Lord's hands and feet in Peru. They did a fabulous job! This project had a two fold purpose. The first purpose was to make progress on the buildings that will be the Larry and Addie Garman missionary training center for southern Peru, the district center for southern Peru, as well as house Zamacola Church of the Nazarene. The second purpose was to make an impact on the city of Arequipa, and jump start our church planting movement. The devil was working hard to make sure this project wasn't successful. Before the project even started, the schools were closed, and public gatherings were strongly discouraged, due to swine flu. Once the project got going, close to half of the short term volunteers got sick with a virus that spread through the team. But, God is stronger, opening up new opportunities, and in one case even the local police were helping us to accomplish our purpose! When this project ended, there were 175 new Christians, including one of the bus drivers that drove the volunteers around all week. It was amazing to see God at work!
Extreme Peru: Arequipa 1 (August 6-19, 2009)
This project had 79 short term volunteers, and God used every single one! God's impact on Arequipa continued during Arequipa 1. Another 316 people accepted Christ during this project, including ANOTHER one of our bus drivers! I was also able to lead two of the events during this project. The first event took place in the plazas of one of the preaching points of Zamacola church, on the first full day of the project. I was able to see around 30 kids accept Christ. The second event took place in the plaza of Chachani, where I go every week. This event was for the mothers. When they found out this was for them and not there children, a smile came across their face, and for the first time in a while, you could see they felt special. It was a cold night, but that didn`t stop them from coming out. There were around 30 women, 20 kids, and even a few men that showed up. The movie Magdalena was shown, which is basically the Jesus film made specifically for women. The movie got to the part where Jesus stopped the Jewish leaders from stoning a women that had committed adultery, saying "Let he who is without sin cast the first stone", and the movie was stopped. Lonna Vopat gave her testimony of how God had healed her broken past, and how in God`s eyes each one of them was special. This gave a current example of what had just been portrayed in the movie, and it met them exactly where they were. Lonna then asked all who would like to accept Jesus to stand. Around 20 of those 30 women stood and prayed to accept Jesus into their heart. The movie was restarted and they saw the rest of the life of Jesus, and were able to see just the difference that God makes. Despite the cold, after woman and child stayed through the entire movie. You could see in their eyes that for the first time, they realized how truly special they are. This volunteers of this project visited worked with children, prayed with strangers in the main plaza, visited hospitals and children's homes, pampered women in prison, showed the Jesus and Magdalena films, and even participated in an evangelistic dance contest! God was definitely at work in amazing ways. 
Work also continued on the new buildings, and on Sunday, August 16th, the Larry and Addie Garman missionary training center and the district center (built in honor of Daniel Walker) were dedicated! There were over 500 people in attendance! This included all of the Nazarene churches in Arequipa, church leaders from across Peru, new Christians who found God during this project, and short term volunteers. To put it in perspective, there are only around 350 members of the Church of the Nazarene in all of southern Peru, yet there were 500 people in attendance at this celebration! God is on the move!
Puerto Construction 1 (September 24 - October 7, 2009)
This is the first project outside of Arequipa. This is a much smaller project with only 14 volunteers, but from early reports they are doing great work! This project is mainly a construction project with the goal of making significant progress on the home that will house the 40/40s and cluster support family for Puerto, who will be moving to Puerto on November 3 to begin their work. Puerto Maldonado is a city of around 50,000 people, and there are more prostitutes than Christians in this dark jungle city. The Church of the Nazarene began work in this city in January 2008, and through the partnership with Extreme, they hope to bring light to this dark place. Please pray for the continued work in this place.
Extreme Peru: Arequipa 0 (July 16-29, 2009)
35 volunteers from across the United States, came down to Peru for two weeks to be the Lord's hands and feet in Peru. They did a fabulous job! This project had a two fold purpose. The first purpose was to make progress on the buildings that will be the Larry and Addie Garman missionary training center for southern Peru, the district center for southern Peru, as well as house Zamacola Church of the Nazarene. The second purpose was to make an impact on the city of Arequipa, and jump start our church planting movement. The devil was working hard to make sure this project wasn't successful. Before the project even started, the schools were closed, and public gatherings were strongly discouraged, due to swine flu. Once the project got going, close to half of the short term volunteers got sick with a virus that spread through the team. But, God is stronger, opening up new opportunities, and in one case even the local police were helping us to accomplish our purpose! When this project ended, there were 175 new Christians, including one of the bus drivers that drove the volunteers around all week. It was amazing to see God at work!Extreme Peru: Arequipa 1 (August 6-19, 2009)
This project had 79 short term volunteers, and God used every single one! God's impact on Arequipa continued during Arequipa 1. Another 316 people accepted Christ during this project, including ANOTHER one of our bus drivers! I was also able to lead two of the events during this project. The first event took place in the plazas of one of the preaching points of Zamacola church, on the first full day of the project. I was able to see around 30 kids accept Christ. The second event took place in the plaza of Chachani, where I go every week. This event was for the mothers. When they found out this was for them and not there children, a smile came across their face, and for the first time in a while, you could see they felt special. It was a cold night, but that didn`t stop them from coming out. There were around 30 women, 20 kids, and even a few men that showed up. The movie Magdalena was shown, which is basically the Jesus film made specifically for women. The movie got to the part where Jesus stopped the Jewish leaders from stoning a women that had committed adultery, saying "Let he who is without sin cast the first stone", and the movie was stopped. Lonna Vopat gave her testimony of how God had healed her broken past, and how in God`s eyes each one of them was special. This gave a current example of what had just been portrayed in the movie, and it met them exactly where they were. Lonna then asked all who would like to accept Jesus to stand. Around 20 of those 30 women stood and prayed to accept Jesus into their heart. The movie was restarted and they saw the rest of the life of Jesus, and were able to see just the difference that God makes. Despite the cold, after woman and child stayed through the entire movie. You could see in their eyes that for the first time, they realized how truly special they are. This volunteers of this project visited worked with children, prayed with strangers in the main plaza, visited hospitals and children's homes, pampered women in prison, showed the Jesus and Magdalena films, and even participated in an evangelistic dance contest! God was definitely at work in amazing ways. 
Work also continued on the new buildings, and on Sunday, August 16th, the Larry and Addie Garman missionary training center and the district center (built in honor of Daniel Walker) were dedicated! There were over 500 people in attendance! This included all of the Nazarene churches in Arequipa, church leaders from across Peru, new Christians who found God during this project, and short term volunteers. To put it in perspective, there are only around 350 members of the Church of the Nazarene in all of southern Peru, yet there were 500 people in attendance at this celebration! God is on the move!Puerto Construction 1 (September 24 - October 7, 2009)
This is the first project outside of Arequipa. This is a much smaller project with only 14 volunteers, but from early reports they are doing great work! This project is mainly a construction project with the goal of making significant progress on the home that will house the 40/40s and cluster support family for Puerto, who will be moving to Puerto on November 3 to begin their work. Puerto Maldonado is a city of around 50,000 people, and there are more prostitutes than Christians in this dark jungle city. The Church of the Nazarene began work in this city in January 2008, and through the partnership with Extreme, they hope to bring light to this dark place. Please pray for the continued work in this place.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Weeks in Review (6/29-7/12)
These past couple weeks have had highs but also quite a few lows. The devil has really been working trying to discourage me. Please keep me in your prayers. Below is an overview:
Chachani - Definitely a high. Last Sunday, for the first time I actually taught the lesson by myself. I also did it all in Spanish. I think it went over very well. I taught about Zaccheus. I read the story as the kids acted it out. They then learned a memory verse "Porque el Hijo del hombre vino a buscar y a salvar lo que se había perdido. (Lucas 19:10)" which means "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost. (Luke 19:10)" It was great! Pilar (the other teacher) and I are going to trade off weeks, so I will be doing this more often, and I am looking forward to it!
Church - Another high! It is great to see relationships continue to build with those at church. It is also great to realize my Spanish is improving once again, which makes it easier to communicate, especially with those at church. This past Monday was teacher day, yet another holiday here in Peru. That evening, all of the Sunday School teachers got together at the Sunday School Superintendent's home. It was a great time to hear stories about what is going on in the other groups. It also helped me to realize just how important Sunday School is. I often take for granted all that I learned in Sunday School growing up, and this meeting along with teaching for this first time really helped to remind me. I am excited about helping young ones form a basis for their relationships with Christ.
Project - Excitement is in full gear in the office! The first group of 35 short term volunteers arries in Arequipa this Friday! This is the first of 11 groups of people who will be coming down over the next year. We also are excited about the growing number of 40/40 and cluster support applications. Financial contributions for the project are also growing. I think General Assembly really helped to make the Nazarenes in the US aware of what is going on, and they are really responding. Please pray that all will come together.
Sick - Now the lows begin. I have had two different bouts of illness in these two weeks. I had been pretty healthy, but last week I had a little bit of stomach problems, and this week a sinus infection. I have had to miss several days of work, and have been locked up in my house the past 3 or 4 days. I have medicine which is helping, but still not completely well. I hope to make it back to the office tomorrow, but we will see. Please pray for my health.
English Lessons - Due to me being sick and some schedule conflict, Jonathon and I haven't had English class in over 2 weeks. As with learning any skill, consistency is key. So I hope he has been practicing, and this won't set us back too much. Hopefully we can have class tomorrow, but this depends on how I feel tomorrow. We will see...
My Grandma - I received an email from my dad stating that my grandma has had a stroke. She is currently in the hospital. They are running tests to see the extent of the damage, what they find will determine her treatment, probably a stint, an operation, medication, etc. She currently is numb in her left arm. Until she gets use of her arm back, she won’t be able to live alone. It is very difficult to hear news like this, especially when you are very far away. She is my only living grandparent. Please pray for her and my family during this difficult time.
Computer Work - The websites have been a major source of frustrations over the past week especially. Due to problems beyond my control, the web site has been down for almost 3 days in a 4 day period. I have been continually feeling like everything I touched had major unforseen hurdles and roadblocks. This was made much worse because I was sick, but had to be working to get these problems resolved. It caused me to have a bad attitude, but God has had to continually reminding me that he is in control. Please pray that I will continue to remember this is His work, and to allow him to use me.
Loneliness - Last but not least. As I have mentioned many times on this blog, this is one of the major ways the devil has been working on me since being here. When I was back in the states, I never really had an issue with the fact that I was single. I have always felt that God wanted me to work on my relationship with him first, and then he would provide for me in this area. Here, I have been dealing with that issue a lot, especially with the fact that dating anyone here is really not an option. I feel like the devil is really using this to try to prevent me from doing what God wants. I know that I could easily take my desires in my own hands and make it happen, but then I wouldn't be open to what God wants. I have been going through this women's bible study, and it feels like every week I am reminded of this. I know God loves me, and I know that God has incredible things planned for me. Please help me to leave my future, all of my future in his hands.
As you can see, it has been a couple weeks of many struggles. I know that all of these struggles are things that I would face no matter where I was, and I know that these things are things that other people face. So, I am writing this for two reasons:
1) As a reminder of specific ways that you can pray for me
2) To be completely honest with what is happening in my life so that when God helps me work through these situations, God will be glorified and others will see how God can work in their lives as well.
Chachani - Definitely a high. Last Sunday, for the first time I actually taught the lesson by myself. I also did it all in Spanish. I think it went over very well. I taught about Zaccheus. I read the story as the kids acted it out. They then learned a memory verse "Porque el Hijo del hombre vino a buscar y a salvar lo que se había perdido. (Lucas 19:10)" which means "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost. (Luke 19:10)" It was great! Pilar (the other teacher) and I are going to trade off weeks, so I will be doing this more often, and I am looking forward to it!
Church - Another high! It is great to see relationships continue to build with those at church. It is also great to realize my Spanish is improving once again, which makes it easier to communicate, especially with those at church. This past Monday was teacher day, yet another holiday here in Peru. That evening, all of the Sunday School teachers got together at the Sunday School Superintendent's home. It was a great time to hear stories about what is going on in the other groups. It also helped me to realize just how important Sunday School is. I often take for granted all that I learned in Sunday School growing up, and this meeting along with teaching for this first time really helped to remind me. I am excited about helping young ones form a basis for their relationships with Christ.
Project - Excitement is in full gear in the office! The first group of 35 short term volunteers arries in Arequipa this Friday! This is the first of 11 groups of people who will be coming down over the next year. We also are excited about the growing number of 40/40 and cluster support applications. Financial contributions for the project are also growing. I think General Assembly really helped to make the Nazarenes in the US aware of what is going on, and they are really responding. Please pray that all will come together.
Sick - Now the lows begin. I have had two different bouts of illness in these two weeks. I had been pretty healthy, but last week I had a little bit of stomach problems, and this week a sinus infection. I have had to miss several days of work, and have been locked up in my house the past 3 or 4 days. I have medicine which is helping, but still not completely well. I hope to make it back to the office tomorrow, but we will see. Please pray for my health.
English Lessons - Due to me being sick and some schedule conflict, Jonathon and I haven't had English class in over 2 weeks. As with learning any skill, consistency is key. So I hope he has been practicing, and this won't set us back too much. Hopefully we can have class tomorrow, but this depends on how I feel tomorrow. We will see...
My Grandma - I received an email from my dad stating that my grandma has had a stroke. She is currently in the hospital. They are running tests to see the extent of the damage, what they find will determine her treatment, probably a stint, an operation, medication, etc. She currently is numb in her left arm. Until she gets use of her arm back, she won’t be able to live alone. It is very difficult to hear news like this, especially when you are very far away. She is my only living grandparent. Please pray for her and my family during this difficult time.
Computer Work - The websites have been a major source of frustrations over the past week especially. Due to problems beyond my control, the web site has been down for almost 3 days in a 4 day period. I have been continually feeling like everything I touched had major unforseen hurdles and roadblocks. This was made much worse because I was sick, but had to be working to get these problems resolved. It caused me to have a bad attitude, but God has had to continually reminding me that he is in control. Please pray that I will continue to remember this is His work, and to allow him to use me.
Loneliness - Last but not least. As I have mentioned many times on this blog, this is one of the major ways the devil has been working on me since being here. When I was back in the states, I never really had an issue with the fact that I was single. I have always felt that God wanted me to work on my relationship with him first, and then he would provide for me in this area. Here, I have been dealing with that issue a lot, especially with the fact that dating anyone here is really not an option. I feel like the devil is really using this to try to prevent me from doing what God wants. I know that I could easily take my desires in my own hands and make it happen, but then I wouldn't be open to what God wants. I have been going through this women's bible study, and it feels like every week I am reminded of this. I know God loves me, and I know that God has incredible things planned for me. Please help me to leave my future, all of my future in his hands.
As you can see, it has been a couple weeks of many struggles. I know that all of these struggles are things that I would face no matter where I was, and I know that these things are things that other people face. So, I am writing this for two reasons:
1) As a reminder of specific ways that you can pray for me
2) To be completely honest with what is happening in my life so that when God helps me work through these situations, God will be glorified and others will see how God can work in their lives as well.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Encouragement from My Father
Everyone who knows me well knows how important music is to me. It is one of the easiest ways for me to worship. You could say it is genetic :) Before I left, my dad was thinking about the journey I would be taking, and he wrote a song. I refer back to this song often, and it is a great encouragement. It is encouragement from my Father, both earthly and heavenly...
God's challenge is great, your ability small.
You want to obey, but you can't do it all.
Just trust him and rest as a branch in the vine,
And do what he tells you one day at a time.
Remember the one who has brought you this far.
Remember the call that went straight to your heart.
Stand firm on the rock of His unchanging Word.
Be strong as you walk hand in hand with your Lord.
God's challenge is great, your ability small. You want to obey, but you can't do it all.
Just trust him and rest as a branch in the vine,
And do what he tells you one day at a time.
Remember the one who has brought you this far.
Remember the call that went straight to your heart.
Stand firm on the rock of His unchanging Word.
Be strong as you walk hand in hand with your Lord.
Thanks Dad for your words of encouragement! You and mom have helped to form me into who I am today. Thank you for constant prayers and support! It is because of you that I have a great image of my heavenly Father.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Week in Review (6/22-6/28)
The Hunts - They were in Lima all week, and after many, many exams, it has been determined that he is healthy. They believe that his episodes were caused by either complicated migraines or Transient Ischemic Attack (the "mini" stroke. They have now given him medicine for both, and the Hunts are returning to Arequipa today. They plan to send the test results to a doctor in the states for another opinion, but please pray that the medicine does it job and there are no occurences.
Computer Work - This week was a productive week, since there were very few people in the office. I got three enhancements done. First, there is now a long term volunteer page which shows all long term volunteer positions. If they are full, it shows the name of that volunteer. If it is open, it shows a description and a link to apply. If you are considering a long term volunteer assignment...check it out. Second, a news section has been added. This lists any news going on within Extreme as well as articles written by other organizations about us. Great way to keep up to date. Also, I added an RSS feed for this, so that those of you who use RSS readers, you can add our feed and automatically get any news. Third, for all volunteers who have a blog, their blog is now being read onto their page. So you can read what they have been doing recently directly from their page. Check mine out: www.extremenazarene.org/bible Both things with the RSS feeds were really fun for me to work on. I learned a lot!
Hair - Many people may not care about this one, but I was excited. Last week, I was getting really bored with my hair, and hating it. I didn't want to cut it, but wasn't sure what to do. Discovered this week that if I take a shower at night and double french braid my hair when it is wet, in the morning my hair is curly (and I think looks pretty good). So, this has been a fun new thing to experiment with...okay on to other things.
English Lessons - This week I was only able to have one lesson. We went over the alphabet and the different sounds the letters make. English is so not straight forward! I think Jonathon was more confused when he left, but he was able to use English several times this week, so progress is being made.
JNI Outing - As I think I have mentioned before the JNI (same as NYI in the states), is for people between like 12-40. On Saturday we got together and took a day trip to Quizcos which is a "hot spring". There were 14 of us that went. We loaded up into the combi, and most of the way there I was being asked to translate Michael Jackson songs...interesting. When my parents were here we visited a hot spring, and it was like a swimming pool with really hot water. So, that is what I was preparing for. What I got was...different. It was a small pond in the middle of...no where. I didn't wear my swim suit because I figured I would change there, but there was nothing but dirt, bushes, and water....Well, I ended up changing...sitting on the floor of the bus...with two people holding up a towel to block. Let's just say...awkward! Once we got in the water, that wasn't what I expected either. It was not hot, but luke warm, and at the deepest part went up to about my knees. But, this day was another example of even though things aren't what you expected, roll with the punches, and you can still have fun. We spent all day playing games together in and out of the water, eating together, and just having a good time. I got burnt on my back, but the rest of me is burn free. Yippee! Here are a few pictures, there are more at http://picasaweb.google.com/kindrabible or in the right column of my blog.
General Assembly - As many of you know General Assembly for the church of the Nazarene is this week in Orlando. This is a big event that happens every four years that Nazarenes from all over the world go to. However, I am in Peru, and was not able to go. Extreme is there, with Rico and the Extrememobile. From what I have heard, things are going well. If you haven't visited yet, please do so before it ends. I was okay with not going, until I got reports that many of my friends from all over the countery were there together! It made me kind of miss being in the states to see them, but God reminded me why I am here. They will just have to visit me in KC when I am there in January 2010 or come to Peru! (Hint Hint...)
Singing/Mission Sunday - Last Sunday, Pastora asked if I would sing a special next Sunday. She said it was "Mission Sunday". She said it could be me only or with others, either in English or Spanish. I have sung a couple times before in English, so I decided to take the next step and sing in Spanish. I also invited Janelle (another volunteer) to sing with me and Daniel (another volunteer) to play piano. Since it was mission Sunday, I really wanted to involve as many of the other missionaries as possible. I picked two of my favorite songs in English (Amazing Grace and I Love You Lord), and decided to do both in Spanish. We got together on Wednesday night to practice at Daniel's house. It was great opportunity to get to know people at the same time! Daniel also has recording software so he recorded us practicing, and it turned out not to bad!
Today, Pastor Solano preached a sermon to a congregation that has many young Christians, explaining how all are called to go and to share. It was a great sermon, especially for "Mission Sunday". They also brought down the kids from one of the other church plants "Bedoya", and they sang and shared about what they were learning. This is a group that we just did outreach to for the first time in March, and it steadily has 20-30 kids showing up every week. It was neat to see the results of some of the "going". Then, Janelle and I sang our songs. I was very pleased with it, and if nothing else, it helped me to connect with God! The service finished with a skit by some of the young people urging everyone to get involved in something. Each person may have excuses as to why they can't go to another country, but everyone can go and do. Very cool.
The Durans, Janelle, and I were then invited up to the Pastor's house for lunch. It was a great relaxed time to get to know everyone, and the food was delicious! Great time.
Chachani - The afternoon was capped off with time up at Chachani. We arrived a bit late, but it was still great. Pilar is beginning a sort of "Quizzing" program with the kids so they were studying questions and such. It was neat to see the kids want to learn, and memorizing things. Quizzing was important in my life so it is neat to see them doing something similar. We then had some time to play some games with them. I always enjoy them. Next week, I will be sharing the lesson. Please pray for me in this. It will be a new experience to do in Spanish, but glad God gives me the opportunity to grow and do new things.
Computer Work - This week was a productive week, since there were very few people in the office. I got three enhancements done. First, there is now a long term volunteer page which shows all long term volunteer positions. If they are full, it shows the name of that volunteer. If it is open, it shows a description and a link to apply. If you are considering a long term volunteer assignment...check it out. Second, a news section has been added. This lists any news going on within Extreme as well as articles written by other organizations about us. Great way to keep up to date. Also, I added an RSS feed for this, so that those of you who use RSS readers, you can add our feed and automatically get any news. Third, for all volunteers who have a blog, their blog is now being read onto their page. So you can read what they have been doing recently directly from their page. Check mine out: www.extremenazarene.org/bible Both things with the RSS feeds were really fun for me to work on. I learned a lot!
Hair - Many people may not care about this one, but I was excited. Last week, I was getting really bored with my hair, and hating it. I didn't want to cut it, but wasn't sure what to do. Discovered this week that if I take a shower at night and double french braid my hair when it is wet, in the morning my hair is curly (and I think looks pretty good). So, this has been a fun new thing to experiment with...okay on to other things.
English Lessons - This week I was only able to have one lesson. We went over the alphabet and the different sounds the letters make. English is so not straight forward! I think Jonathon was more confused when he left, but he was able to use English several times this week, so progress is being made.
JNI Outing - As I think I have mentioned before the JNI (same as NYI in the states), is for people between like 12-40. On Saturday we got together and took a day trip to Quizcos which is a "hot spring". There were 14 of us that went. We loaded up into the combi, and most of the way there I was being asked to translate Michael Jackson songs...interesting. When my parents were here we visited a hot spring, and it was like a swimming pool with really hot water. So, that is what I was preparing for. What I got was...different. It was a small pond in the middle of...no where. I didn't wear my swim suit because I figured I would change there, but there was nothing but dirt, bushes, and water....Well, I ended up changing...sitting on the floor of the bus...with two people holding up a towel to block. Let's just say...awkward! Once we got in the water, that wasn't what I expected either. It was not hot, but luke warm, and at the deepest part went up to about my knees. But, this day was another example of even though things aren't what you expected, roll with the punches, and you can still have fun. We spent all day playing games together in and out of the water, eating together, and just having a good time. I got burnt on my back, but the rest of me is burn free. Yippee! Here are a few pictures, there are more at http://picasaweb.google.com/kindrabible or in the right column of my blog.
General Assembly - As many of you know General Assembly for the church of the Nazarene is this week in Orlando. This is a big event that happens every four years that Nazarenes from all over the world go to. However, I am in Peru, and was not able to go. Extreme is there, with Rico and the Extrememobile. From what I have heard, things are going well. If you haven't visited yet, please do so before it ends. I was okay with not going, until I got reports that many of my friends from all over the countery were there together! It made me kind of miss being in the states to see them, but God reminded me why I am here. They will just have to visit me in KC when I am there in January 2010 or come to Peru! (Hint Hint...)
Singing/Mission Sunday - Last Sunday, Pastora asked if I would sing a special next Sunday. She said it was "Mission Sunday". She said it could be me only or with others, either in English or Spanish. I have sung a couple times before in English, so I decided to take the next step and sing in Spanish. I also invited Janelle (another volunteer) to sing with me and Daniel (another volunteer) to play piano. Since it was mission Sunday, I really wanted to involve as many of the other missionaries as possible. I picked two of my favorite songs in English (Amazing Grace and I Love You Lord), and decided to do both in Spanish. We got together on Wednesday night to practice at Daniel's house. It was great opportunity to get to know people at the same time! Daniel also has recording software so he recorded us practicing, and it turned out not to bad!
Today, Pastor Solano preached a sermon to a congregation that has many young Christians, explaining how all are called to go and to share. It was a great sermon, especially for "Mission Sunday". They also brought down the kids from one of the other church plants "Bedoya", and they sang and shared about what they were learning. This is a group that we just did outreach to for the first time in March, and it steadily has 20-30 kids showing up every week. It was neat to see the results of some of the "going". Then, Janelle and I sang our songs. I was very pleased with it, and if nothing else, it helped me to connect with God! The service finished with a skit by some of the young people urging everyone to get involved in something. Each person may have excuses as to why they can't go to another country, but everyone can go and do. Very cool.
The Durans, Janelle, and I were then invited up to the Pastor's house for lunch. It was a great relaxed time to get to know everyone, and the food was delicious! Great time.
Chachani - The afternoon was capped off with time up at Chachani. We arrived a bit late, but it was still great. Pilar is beginning a sort of "Quizzing" program with the kids so they were studying questions and such. It was neat to see the kids want to learn, and memorizing things. Quizzing was important in my life so it is neat to see them doing something similar. We then had some time to play some games with them. I always enjoy them. Next week, I will be sharing the lesson. Please pray for me in this. It will be a new experience to do in Spanish, but glad God gives me the opportunity to grow and do new things.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Update on the Hunts
Below is a link to an update on Brad Hunt, written by his wife Michelle. Please continue to pray.
http://inovermyhead-michelle.blogspot.com/2009/06/home-is-where-suitcase-is.html
http://inovermyhead-michelle.blogspot.com/2009/06/home-is-where-suitcase-is.html
Friday, June 19, 2009
Update
Brad was able to get into a doctor in Lima last night (Thursday night). The doctor in Lima said that the equipment in Arequipa did not produce clear/accurate images/results. The doctor in Lima believes it was a small stroke. The doctor now wants to do a series of tests to see why this happened so that is will not happen again. These tests will take 3-4 days. The Hunts will stay in Lima until the tests are completed and they have sufficient answers.
Please continue to pray.
Please continue to pray.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Urgent Prayer Request
Please pray for the Hunt family. They are volunteers with me down in Peru. Monday morning Brad woke up with a bad headache, and was unable to speak. He could think, but was unable to get his mouth to vocalize the words effectively. It went away after 5 or 6 hours. He was in the hospital for a couple days. The doctors ran a bunch of tests and found a nodule on his brain, and some abnormal brain activity. But, they released him saying he was fine. Today, it happened again. He is now back at the hospital.
Brad is only around 30 years old. It is very scary to go through something like this, especially in a foreign country. Please pray for him, and for his wife as they try to figure out what is happening.
Brad is only around 30 years old. It is very scary to go through something like this, especially in a foreign country. Please pray for him, and for his wife as they try to figure out what is happening.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Time in the US
I am beginning to schedule a trip back to the states. This will be a time to catch up with family and friends, as well as raise money so that I can continue to work in Peru. Right now, I am planning to be back in the states from December 17-February 2. I would love the opportunity to catch up with each of you, and to share what God is doing whether it be in a formal speaking setting in a church, one on one, or anywhere in between. If you are interested, please let me know, especially if it is in a church or other formal setting, so that I can make sure I catch everyone.
God is doing amazing things, and would love to be able to share it with everyone!
God is doing amazing things, and would love to be able to share it with everyone!
NYI
Down here the NYI is anyone from about 12-39. Saturday night is when they meet. I have been attending regularly for several months, and up until recently the group has been rather small. But recently, the leaders of the group have really been trying to reach out, and it is working! Last night, we had a bonfire in what will in a few months be the new sanctuary of the church! There were 20 people there! This may seem small to some, but the group had been running 5-10. It was a great night of getting to know one another, playing games, worshipping God, and growing closer to one another. The goal is to get the group up to 50. Some of those coming don't attend church anywhere, including at Zamacola on Sundays. This is their church, and church it is.
Extreme's phrase for the Peru project is "Carry the Light". It is neat to see the Peruvians taking that light and passing it on in their world. Official 40/40 outreach hasn't yet begun in Arequipa, but the church is already growing and the light is being carried. Please pray this light continues to spread and that more people will stand up and be willing to carry the light.
Extreme's phrase for the Peru project is "Carry the Light". It is neat to see the Peruvians taking that light and passing it on in their world. Official 40/40 outreach hasn't yet begun in Arequipa, but the church is already growing and the light is being carried. Please pray this light continues to spread and that more people will stand up and be willing to carry the light.
Teaching English to Learn Spanish
I have recently been realizing that my Spanish has gotten much worse. I am understanding less, and having more problems speaking. I had really just stopped putting the effort in, and it was showing. I mentioned it to one of the guys in the church, and he offered to help me practice my Spanish. He also asked if I would help teach him English. So, twice a week for about an hour and a half each time, I teach him English, which I have to speak mostly in Spanish since he doesn't know much English yet. Who knew that an English class could help teach two languages! My Spanish has improved having to use it again, and his English is getting better.
Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord!
I Love Those Kids!
Recently, it seems like things have prevented me from going up to Chachani to spend time with the kids.Three weeks ago, we got up there and discovered one of the two Peruvian teachers wasn't coming. I was there, but not much was able to be accomplished without the lead teacher.
Two weeks ago, the lead teacher wasn't able to make it again, and we considered not going. We decided to go, but then we waited and watched as two buses passed that were headed up there, but they were too full to get on. After looking at our watches and seeing that it was time for us to be headed home, and we still hadn't made it...we decided to head home.
Last week, another volunteer decided to go with us...he had a car. We weren't sure all the turns it took to get up there, having never driven, so we decided to try the bus again. After waiting 45 minutes for a bus and it never came, we decided to drive. So, I went to take out my cell phone to call and ask for directions, and it was no where to be found. After looking and looking, we decided to head to the church to ask in person, but no one was there. Two out of the three of us had been there before, so we decided to try to find our way. Now this sounds easy, but it is literally a maze of twists and turns to get there. But, GOD was with us. He helped us to find our way up there. We were very late, but we got there. We played a game of soccer with the kids. Daniel (one of the other volunteers) was the captain of one team and I was the captain of the other. I haven't played soccer in many, many years, but it was fun. My team won 5-2 and I even scored a goal! Upon leaving, we stopped back by the church, and turns out my cell phone was there! So after a day of many issues, God worked them all out. He is a God of miracles.
So, this week, we wondered if we would be able to make it up or not, since there have been so many issues getting up there. We decided that although it was nice to drive up, it was more cost effective to take a bus, if we could find one. This week we found one right away, and actually made it up there early. We actually had extra time to spend. Those kids have so much energy, but they also have so much LIFE! They have nothing, but they are happy. The more time I spend with these kids, the more I love them. We had a lesson, and I spent a good portion of the time trying to keep a hold on all of their energy! After the lesson, we played soccer again. Yet again, I was one captain and Daniel was the other. It was neat to see how all of the kids that I spent time with trying to keep them under control, when it came time to pick teams, they ALL wanted to be on my team. I felt loved. This week, I have no idea who won, and I didn't score a goal. In fact, I spent most of my time not playing the game. I settled arguments, helped comfort those that got hurt, encouraged those who made a mistake, and cheered for those that made a good play. It was great.
Prayer Request: Zamacola church is trying to find a property to purchase in this community to have a building for this mission so that the kids can have a place to have class when it is cold or raining, a place to call their own "church". Please pray we can find a place, and find the money to pay for it. Jesus said the kingdom belongs to such as these, and I am seeing that sometimes a church begins with them too.
Crash
On Monday of this week, I was working from my apartment when I heard a loud noise. I looked out the window, and I saw that a taxi had crashed into a light pole. There was glass all over the ground. The taxi pulled forward, and I saw that toys had flown out of the car and were laying in the ground. This meant kids were involved.
As crazy as driving is down here, this is the first accident I have seen. Within minutes, there were crowds of people, a fire truck, and lots of police. There was no ambulance, so I believe all of the people in the car were okay, including the kids.
One of our staff members (a Peruvian) went out to check it out. He discovered that the taxi driver had turned to talk to his passenger. The pole was a little further out in the street than most, and he missed it and ran into it.
I took a few pictures from my window. Just a little Monday afternoon excitement!
As crazy as driving is down here, this is the first accident I have seen. Within minutes, there were crowds of people, a fire truck, and lots of police. There was no ambulance, so I believe all of the people in the car were okay, including the kids.
One of our staff members (a Peruvian) went out to check it out. He discovered that the taxi driver had turned to talk to his passenger. The pole was a little further out in the street than most, and he missed it and ran into it.
I took a few pictures from my window. Just a little Monday afternoon excitement!
My Testimony
I recently was asked to a devotion for our weekly staff lunch. So, I decided to give my testimony. I have given my testimony many times, but I was way more nervous because I had to do it in English and Spanish. It was definitely good practice, but hopefully if I do it again I will be less nervous the next time. My previous post shows the Spanish version, but wanted to include the English version in here as well.
Testimony
Testimony
When I went to college, I looked like a “good christian girl”, but inside I felt like I couldn’t be further from God. Just a couple years before I watched as my brother got involved in drugs and alcohol, and watched as this destroyed my parents. I couldn’t hurt them like that so, I continued to act like the “good christian girl” I was brought up to be, but inside I hated God.
This lasted my first two years of college. The summer before my senior year, I heard God speak to me. He said, “Kindra, next summer you are going to go on a trip, a trip that will change your life. But, you have to trust me.” I was shocked, since it had felt like so long since I had heard from him. I responded, “Ok, I trust you.” Not really believing, but really saying it more to appease him than anything. During the first month of school, Youth In Mission came to visit the university. They told how they were inviting young people to give their summer to God, and join one of many groups travelling around the world to serve. I knew immediately this was what God had meant. So, I applied, and was put on a waiting list. I was angry. If this was what God had meant, why wasn’t I accepted. I heard God say again, “Kindra, do you trust me?” At this point I felt like Peter when God asked him repeatedly “Do you love me?” I began to cry, and at this point I gave my life completely to him.
Within the next week, I received a letter from YIM saying that I had been accepted and would be going to Brooklyn New York. God was right, it did change my life. But, this was only the beginning of my journey. Over the next few years, God continued to work in me. Providing me a job with the church working with computers, leading me to go to seminary to learn more about him, working with inner city kids, and much more.
In 2006, when I graduated from seminary, I still felt completely inadequate for his work. I heard God’s voice again, “Kindra, I have a plan for your life, and I have been preparing you and will continue to prepare you. But you have to trust me.” I found comfort in this promise. Within the next month, God led me to reduce my hours at my job, and work for less money at a center for inner city youth. It was here that God began to demonstrate to me, just how much more prepared I was than that first summer. He showed me the gifts and skills that he had given me, and a glimpse of how he could use them.
A few months later, I felt God leading me to go on a Work and Witness trip to the Ukraine. I knew that this would be more than just a two week trip. I felt like God was using this to speak to me once again. While there, God began to build in me a passion for his people around the world. He showed me how those gifts and talents that he has given me can be used for more than just the people in my own backyard, but also for those around the world. When I returned, I immediately applied with Mission Corps to do overseas missions. This led me to Extreme.
After hearing the story of Extreme, I heard God speak again. He said, “Kindra, this is where I want you, but this is too big for you to do alone. You have to trust me.” Over the course of the next year as God was preparing me to come to Peru, I learned what it meant to truly trust God. I was completely at peace, even as trials came and went. Now, being in Peru, it is amazing to feel completely in the center of God’s will. I see how he has prepared me to be here, and am excited to see the big things that God has in store for me, for this team (Extreme), and for this country (Peru).
My prayer for you comes from Philippians 1:3-6,9-11
3I thank my God every time I remember you. 4In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
9And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, 10so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, 11filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.
Mi Testimonio
Cuando fui a la universidad, yo parecía una "buena chica cristiana", pero por dentro sentía como que no podía estar más lejos de Dios. Sólo un par de años vi como mi hermano se involucró en las drogas y el alcohol, y vi como esto destruyó a mis padres. Yo no los lastimaba así, de manera que seguí actuando como la "buena chica cristiana" que se me enseñó a ser, pero por dentro odiaba a Dios.
Esto duró mis dos primeros años de la universidad. El verano antes de mi último año, escuché a Dios hablarme. Él dijo, "Kindra, el próximo verano vas a ir a un viaje, un viaje que cambiará tu vida. Sin embargo, tienes que confiar en mí. "Me sorprendió, ya que no me había sentido así desde hacía mucho tiempo que había oído de él. Yo respondí: "Bueno, yo confío en ti." La verdad es que no creía, pero en realidad lo estaba diciendo para apaciguarlo a él más que nada. Durante el primer mes de la escuela, Jóvenes en Misión fue a visitar la universidad. Ellos hablaron de como estaban invitando a los jóvenes a dar su verano a Dios, y e afiliarse a uno de los muchos grupos que viajan alrededor del mundo para servir. Supe de inmediato que se trataba de aquello a lo que Dios se referí. Entonces, me presenté, y fui puesta en una lista de espera. Yo estaba enojada. Si esto era a lo que Dios se refería, ¿Por qué no fui aceptada? . Oí decir una vez más a Dios ", Kindra, ¿no confías en mí?" En este punto me sentía como Pedro, cuando Dios le preguntó varias veces "¿Me amas?" Empecé a llorar, y en ese momento, di mi vida por completo a él.
En la siguiente semana, he recibido una carta de JEM diciendo que había sido aceptada y estaría yendo a Brooklyn Nueva York. Dios tenía razón, esto hizo cambiar mi vida. Sin embargo, esto fue sólo el comienzo de mi viaje. En los próximos años, Dios continuó trabajando en mí. Me proporcionó un trabajo en la iglesia trabajando con computadoras, lo que me llevó al seminario para aprender más acerca de él, trabajando con niños del centro de la ciudad, y mucho más.
En el 2006, cuando me gradué de seminario, me sentía todavía totalmente inepta para su trabajo. Yo escuché de nuevo la voz de Dios,” Kindra, tengo un plan para tu vida, te he venido preparando y continuaré preparándote. Pero tienes que confiar en mí. "Encontré consuelo en esta promesa. El siguiente mes, Dios me ha llevado a reducir mis horasde trabajo, y trabajar por menos dinero en un centro para la juventud el centro de la ciudad. Fue aquí que Dios comenzó a demostrar me, cuánto más preparada estaba que ese primer verano. Me mostró los dones y habilidades que me había dado, y una idea de cómo podía usarlos.
Unos meses después, sentí que Dios me guiaba a ir a un viaje de Trabajo y Testimonio a Ucrania. Yo sabía que esto sería más que un viaje de dos semanas. Sentía como Dios estaba usando esto para hablarme una vez más. Mientras estuve ahí, Dios comenzó a crear en mí una pasión por su pueblo en todo el mundo. Me mostró cómo esos dones y talentos que él me ha dado pueden ser utilizados para más que solo la gente de mi propio patio trasero, sino también para los de todo el mundo. Cuando regresé, me llené mi solicitud inmediatamente con Mission Corps para hacer misiones en el extranjero. Esto me llevó a Extreme.
Después de escuchar la historia de Extreme, he oído hablar a Dios de nuevo. Él dijo, "Kindra, aquí es donde yo te quiero a ti, pero esto es demasiado grande para que lo puedas hacer sola. Tienes que confiar en mí." En el transcurso del siguiente año, Dios me estaba preparando para venir a Perú, yo aprendí lo que significaba realmente confiar en Dios. Yo estaba completamente en paz, incluso las pruebas, vinieron y se fueron. Ahora, estoy en el Perú, es sorprendente sentirse totalmente en el centro de la voluntad de Dios. Veo cómo Él me ha preparado para estar aquí, y estoy emocionada de ver las cosas grandes que Dios tiene para mí, para este equipo (de Extremos), y para este país (Perú).
Mi oración por ustedes viene de Filipenses 1:3-6,9-11
3 Doy gracias a mi Dios cada vez que me acuerdo de ustedes.4 En todas mis oraciones por todos ustedes, siempre oro con alegría,5 porque han participado en el *evangelio desde el primer día hasta ahora.6 Estoy convencido de esto: el que comenzó tan buena obra en ustedes la irá *perfeccionando hasta el día de Cristo Jesús.
9 Esto es lo que pido en oración: que el amor de ustedes abunde cada vez más en conocimiento y en buen juicio,10 para que disciernan lo que es mejor, y sean puros e irreprochables para el día de Cristo,11 llenos del fruto de justicia que se produce por medio de Jesucristo, para gloria y alabanza de Dios.
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