Starbucks and the Heart of God

The title itself is quite an oxymoron, I know. But let me begin by saying, I'm not supporting Starbucks, but I do enjoy a nice Starbucks frappuccino once in a while. However, I'm also not supporting Christians who have nothing better to do with their time than complain about a disposable cup. I have to wonder, are these same Christians praying or sharing the gospel as much as they're complaining? And if they aren't, then quite frankly, I don't really want to hear their opinion on the color of a cup or the lack of holiday spirit.

This month Missions Month at my church here in Peru. Last week for the kick off, the young adults (feels weird saying that as I don't feel that old myself yet) came in at the beginning of the service carrying flags from varying countries and lined up along the walls of the auditorium. My eyes began to water and my throat tightened as I tried to keep myself from becoming a ball of weeping flesh in my seat.

As I sat there, eyes watering and lips quivering, I thought two things.
1. Why am I responding like this? They're just flags.
2. Am I doing enough? Am I where I'm supposed to be or is God calling me elsewhere?

Then, as the announcements ran and the pastor got up to speak, I began to think and respond to these questions.

1. I responded in this way because my heart is broken for this world. The sinful nature of humanity, the downward spiral even Christians are facing, hate for our brethren, judgement that should be left to God, hidden sins, pride...I could go on an on. Each of those flags represent people who are lost and dying. Each of those flags represent nations where missionaries are working to spread the Gospel, and some of those flags represent nations where the Gospel is forbidden, yet God has sent His chosen ones to go and discretely share the Word.

2. I don't think I am doing enough. So, God sent me to Peru as a teacher, but I should be doing more to share His message, too. What's the next step? It's no longer me who decides where God is calling me, but I have to convince my husband as well. What is he thinking? Are we called to be missionaries somewhere? Are we called to be more involved with a missions organization here?

Honestly, I know I'm not doing enough to be an ambassador of Christ. My last blog post is proof of that, and I can't say I've stepped up my game much since that post either. I also honestly believe that if God calls me to be a missionary somewhere, He'll give that calling to my husband as well. As far as being more involved in missions here in Peru, Javier and I have that talk on a regular basis. It's just so difficult with his schedule to both be highly involved somewhere. We're working on it though.

I've spent this week in earnest prayer for missionaries I know and miscellaneous missionaries around the world. I admire them and what they're doing, and I sometimes wish God had given me that call rather than calling me to be a teacher. But then I'm reminded that being a teacher is one of the greatest callings. It allows me to work with young minds, to shape their thinking and to set an example for them that they may not see elsewhere.

Then there's the Starbucks issue. While I'm over hear worrying about the spiritually dead around the world and praying for missionaries in places much worse than where I find myself, Christians in North America are in an uproar over a disposable cup. First world problems at their finest.

Okay, I get it; the so called "Holiday cup" lacks holiday decorations. But, would you say snowflakes and pine trees represent Christ more than a simple red cup does? As a friend stated tonight, "I don't think the snowflakes of years past had anything more to say about our sinful nature and our gift of a Savior than the color red." She also stated that the red color of the cup could be argued that it represents the cleansing blood of Christ spoken about in many church hymns.

Dear Brethren,

We're missing the bigger picture!! Wake up!! Open your eyes and look around you! While you're boycotting Starbucks and tweeting/posting about how awful they are for eliminating holiday decor from their cups, people are being killed around the world. Christians are being jailed and/or killed for their faith. Have you stopped to pray for them, or are you too busy telling everyone how awful Starbucks is for choosing a red design for their cups? What if they used their normal cups year round, would you complain about that, too? At least the cup is red, right? That must stand for something.

Are you worried about seeing your lost friends saved? Are you taking a stand for Christ and speaking out against sin in a loving way, or are you spreading hate to those who believe different than you? Have you stopped to consider that it's absolutely ridiculous to even think that someone who is not saved should support the Gospel or even find it necessary to have Christmas decorations? Why celebrate Christmas if you don't believe in Christ? Yeah, the gifts are nice, but I could buy the same gift for myself if I wanted.

The unsaved have no reason to think, believe, or act as Christians should. They don't know Christ, they don't know His redeeming power, and they don't know they are lost.

It's our job to get off our our high horses, leave judgement to the Lord, and start sharing the Gospel in a way that causes others to desire what we have. It's time to make a change in our thinking, to change our point of view and to put our priorities in order. We need to stop expecting non-believers to act like believers. It's time to stop spreading hate and to quit making Christianity distasteful to the lost. It's time to start making Jesus desirable and attractive. It's time to bring the Kingdom to the people and make them long for eternal life in heaven.

It's time to stop complaining about all the bad, but to be the positive change.

Yours truly,
Jessica


So in conclusion, think about your words and actions, pray for the lost, and go out and share the Gospel. The world is waiting for you!

1 Corinthians 2:14 - The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit.


**Disclaimer: I am not perfect, and I have a long way to go before I am. I've written this post as much for myself as I have for you. Accept the challenge.

**Disclaimer: I am fully aware that Starbucks has made comments in the past contradictory to our Christian faith. I fully expect that; it's a company ran by non-Christians. I know that due to these previous comments, the removal of winter decorations from the cup comes as another sign that they are not for Christ. However, I will say it again - it's absolutely ridiculous to think that non-Christians should understand the importance of holiday decor when for them Christmas is just a day for gifts that most of them could by for themselves.

Living to Serve - Prayers Please

For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’  “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." ~ Matthew 25:35-40

One of the most important lessons I have learned in the last year is that anyone can serve the Lord. You don't have to have a huge bank account of money or even the grandest of all houses. It simply takes a willing heart and a desire to help others.

One of the first things that drew me to Javier was his desire to help others. We met at the Children's Home in 2009 and every time our paths crossed here in Peru he was one of the first ones to call and make sure I was settled and had everything I might need. At the time neither of us had even thought about a relationship beyond friendship, but God has a way of altering our plans and doing things in his timing.

Upon my arrival to Peru last year, Javier was one of the first people to call me, to help me look for an apartment, and to make sure I was settled into my new home. After a month or two, we both began to realize our relationship was changing, and the rest is history.

Anyways, our relationship is not the purpose of this post.

Upon meeting Javier, I noticed a love for the children of Kids Alive. He'd come and play with the kids, buy things they might need, and he usually returned from his trips abroad with something for each of them. He loved them and loved spending time with them.

Since our relationship has begun, he has taught me so much in means of serving others. He uses the car to give some of the guys at work a ride home who many make less or live further away. A few weeks ago we picked up a young girl and her 15 month old baby walking along the road at 12:30 at night to take them home - a 10 minute drive which would have taken her about an hour walking, not to mention the danger aspect.

We've recently decided together to use our resources, knowledge, and love for the children to begin to help the adolescents at the Juniper Tree (Kids Alive) Children's home. Our desire is to find interests they may have and provide classes or training so that upon leaving the home they have a skill that they can use to support themselves.
A few weeks ago we were able to pay for one of the teenage boys who is a phenomenal artist to take a 2 day course in which he was able to learn techniques for 3D painting using ceramic material and a wooden board. Javier picked him up and drove him downtown both days for his class. After the course finished, we were able to purchase the supplies he would need to continue to practice this new art he had learned.
We'd love to do this with other children as well. However, the key is finding what the children are interested in and then looking for ways to help them to develop these interests. It also takes coordination with schedules and money.
In the future we'd love to open our home (when we have one) to the kids to come a few at a time and stay for a weekend. Our desire is for them to see how a family functions outside of the children's home and to be an example of a Godly marriage.
It's a mission/ministry we both feel very called to, but we are still trying to figure out how exactly it may develop and function.

Please be in prayer for us as we continue to develop our ideas and work with the children to determine their interests and the best way for us to help. Pray for us as we run ideas by directors of the home who thus far have been very supportive - although I've heard rumors that they're praying for us to be house parents and live at the home with 6-7 kids in our care once we are married (a field of ministry we do not feel called to at this point). Pray for time and resources - both of which can at times be limited. Pray also that the Lord would continue to guide us and direct us in the way that He has paved for us to go and that if it means a change in our vision that we would follow as He leads.

Much love from Peru! ~ Jessica

The Saga of the Taxi Drivers

I'm starting to hate taking taxis anymore here. The anxiety and stress makes an hour long trip on the bus (double the amount of a taxi) almost worth it. If you watch the news there are always stories of taxi trips gone wrong - robbery, kidnapping, etc. (Don't freak out Mom and Dad!!) I'm thankful I live in a safer area, so usually from my apartment I don't worry too much, but I still pray as I enter each taxi that I arrive safely and intact at my final destination. I have learned to check that taxi license plate number and ask the taxi driver for it so that I can text Javier the number. I then text him when I get where I need to be so that if something were to go wrong he has the information to contact the authorities.

I take a taxi to school each morning because with morning traffic and the travel time in bus, I'd rather sleep in a little bit and pay more than get up at 5a.m. to ensure arriving to school on time by bus. A few weeks after moving into my apartment, by chance I ended up asking the same taxi driving two mornings in a row to take me to school. The second day I asked him if he would be willing to take me each morning and he agreed. This worked for about a month and a half and then he quit coming on Mondays. A few weeks later he quit coming at all. And then came the stress each morning all over again...

• Would there be an empty taxi at the stop near my house?
• Would it be a safe taxi?
• How much will I have to pay today? (Each taxi here determines its own price since most are independent drivers rather than being employed by a company.)

Ironically or by God's plan, a little over a week ago I had left my house late. I arrived at the bus stop to hail a cab, and every one that passed was already occupied. I was slightly panicked, worried that I would be late for school when an empty cab finally passed. I was a bit nervous getting in as the numbers weren't on the side door like they normally are, and he was charging me 3 soles (about a dollar) more than normal, but at that point I felt I had no other option. I got in, said "Buenos dias" (good morning), locked the doors, ad prayed silently while asking for the plate number. 

The man kindly gave it to me, and then he asked me if I had worked at LISOFT (the school I worked at in 2009). Come to find out he used to be in charge of maintenance. We talked the whole way to school, and as we got near he asked if I'd like a ride every morning. To make it even better he offered to pick me up at the end of my street rather than me having to walk the 3+ blocks to the bus stop each morning. 

He picked me up each morning this week, and it has been a complete blessing. He's a trustworthy Christian man, trying to support his family. It costs a bit more than I was paying originally, but Javier and I both agreed that for the peace of mind that I will arrive at school safely without having to find a new cab each morning then $5 more a week is worth it. Plus, I'm helping out someone who I know will use the money he is making wisely to support his family.

Please continue to pray for safety throughout my time here in Peru. The plan is to start looking to buy a car when I return from vacations at the end of January, but even with owning a car there are risks one must consider. However, at this point those risks seem minor in comparison to the nerves and stress of hailing a cab.  

Homesick

I try to keep my posts and thoughts here positive, shedding light on the good things God is doing in my life. However, we all know that not everything is happy and carefree all the time. We have valleys, plateaus, moments of frustration and loss. It's a process and at times a struggle. Someone once told me that month 3 is the hardest, and I've also been warned that having a plane ticket to go home can at times make it worse. I think I'm beginning to believe both of those statements to be true as I find myself more and more longing for the things I miss - family, friends, my car, chocolate chips and peanut butter, the comfort of home. Here's to me being vulnerable and asking for extra prayers in the days to come.

Tonight I hit my breaking point. After two different friends cancelled plans for the day and another set of last minute plans was ruined, I'd had enough. Weekends seem to be the worst for missing home, especially when I have nothing to do.

While waiting on a friend to call today, I cleaned my apartment, did laundry, worked on my newsletter and some things for school, and chatted with a few friends back home. I had grocery shopping to do and a few other errands to run, but not sure of when I would be heading out, I decided to stay home just in case. Minutes turned to hours, and soon a whole day was "wasted". Of course I got things done, but they weren't the things I'd wanted to do today.

As I was praying this afternoon, I spent some time in silence asking the Lord to speak to me and to reveal to me whatever His plans are for certain situations I'm currently facing. As I waited this was revealed to me: I never said my followers would gain many friends or multitudes of followers, but I did promise to never leave you nor forsake you. Those words have been on my mind all day. It's a great reminder that Christ is the only friend I need.

I'm not sure what happened to my friend group here. I used to hang out with people all the time when I'd visit during July, but since arriving in Peru in August I've seen maybe a handful of those I once considered dear friends. Some have married, others have children, and the rest I guess they've gotten busy with work. I am frustrated with friends who say they want to hang out but are always too busy to find time to do so. I feel like there are only a few people I can call up at any given time to see if they are free to get together, and if it weren't for my "friend" Javier I wouldn't have a social life at all.

I'm tired of being the one to make the effort. I send texts, make the phone calls, and send emails. You find out who your real friends are when you live thousands of miles away. You also learn who your true friends are when you return to a city to live rather than to simply visit.

I'm not writing this to gain your sympathy or even to persuade you to email, text, or call me. I'm writing this to share with you my struggles, my daily battle recently, an area where I need a lot of prayer. I need to force myself to get involved at church and meet friends there. I need to open up more and let people I've recently met in. I need to quit holding on to the past and the friends I used to spend time with.

I still believe this is exactly where I'm supposed to be for this moment in time. Some pretty great things have happened during my time here and in some ways I couldn't be happier with my current life situation. However, I firmly believe the friend situation is the devil's favorite string to pull; it's his way of making me doubt the Lord's plan for me here.

Please pray against Satan's lies and the loneliness I've been feeling. I'm looking forward to returning home in 56 days for 5 short weeks, but I'm sure when that time actually arrives I'll have a hard time saying good-bye.
 

ANGER vs BROKENNESS

I posted the following statement on my Twitter this afternoon following the news of the explosions at the Boston Marathon (follow me on Twitter: jessrenee86)...

Anger may be your first choice, but compassion and 

brokenness for lost souls is what the Lord asks of us.

It's hard to feel compassion and brokenness for individuals who desire to cause pain and destruction, but the Lord does not want us to be angry. He calls us to pray for the lost, to minister to the brokenhearted, and to love the unlovable. It's not easy, trust me, but it's a lesson the Lord seems to be laying on my heart a lot recently.

A story that hits closer to home:

Schools in my county and the neighboring ones were filled with excess security today after a threat had been made to kill 20 children in 5 schools on this particular day. I honestly don't think anyone truly believed the threat would actually be carried through, but taking precautions was necessary to ease the tension of staff and students alike.

As I prepared for work this morning, I was feeling particularly angry, unsettled, and pained. I couldn't believe someone would even think of killing innocent children. I was in disbelief that a person would go so far as creating the said threat just to get attention, yet being too cowardly to sign a name to the paper therefore earning no recognition...yet. I was feeling sorry for the poor individual who would even consider this careless act an act of valor.

As I walked out of my apartment to my car, I was blown away by the sunrise. It was like God was speaking  directly to me, "I got this Jessica; confide in Me and I will protect you." I got into my car and started off to school. Still frustrated but feeling slightly comforted.

As I drove passed an elementary school, I felt compelled to pray. I spent time in prayer for the students in all area schools, but the main focus of my prayer turned from safety to brokenness, and my eyes welled up with tears. My anger and frustration were replaced by compassion and a desire for action. I wanted to find these men (or women) and share Jesus with them. I wanted to tell them that their desire to kill won't bring them eternal peace, but rather it will haunt them forever. I wanted to find them, sit with them, and listen to them as they poured out their hearts, their pain, and their insecurities. I wanted to be a comfort for them and a shoulder to lean on. I was no longer angry, I was full out broken. Ironically, by the end of my prayer, I asked the Lord that if these people were to attack our school that my life would be spared and that an opportunity for me to speak with the intruders would be granted.

As you imagine, the destruction didn't occur in our school, and I haven't heard of anything abnormal occurring in other area schools either. It was honestly a relief, but when I arrived home and heard about the bombings at the Boston Marathon my heart broke all over again.

Here is my prayer this evening...

"Why, Lord? I just don't understand how someone could want to cause so much evil. However, I thank you, Jesus, that your blood shed saves those who confess your name and believe. I thank you, Lord, for the peace that I've found, and I am grateful for the confidence that no matter when my life is cut to an end, I will spend eternity in heaven with you. I ask that you be with those who are hosting hatred deep within their hearts. Provide a moment for divine encounter and reveal yourself in a powerful way. Lord, reach your hand down and touch your people. Bring revival to our land, and heal those who are so desperate for destruction. Give boldness to your people, and allow your love to penetrate from those who profess your name. Allow your glory to be revealed, and permit your perfect plan to prevail whatever that may be. ~ Amen"

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 Operation World Prayer for the Nations Update

Currently, I am praying through a 2 week prayer journey through China. China is a nation growing in Christian population despite years of persecution and forced secret house churches. People are coming to the Lord in masses, and His hand is at work within this great nation.

Other countries of focus since my last prayer update are:

Cameroon (Africa) - Cameroon has one of Africa's highest literacy rates at 67.9%, and it is also one of the world's most corrupt nations. Churches are facing "spiritual poverty" or spiritual apathy, lack of concern for the unreached, and little unity.

Canada (North America) - Canada holds that status of having the world's lowest public debt. It is also the nation in which the most immigration occurs. Christianity is in a long, sustained decline with the rise of pop culture and secularism.

Cape Verde Islands (Africa) - Widespread poverty affects this nation, 80% of the food must be imported. Most residents are Catholic by name, but many are influenced by superstitions and African fetishism.

Cayman Islands (Caribbean) - These islands are extremely vulnerable to money laundering.

Central African Republic (Africa) - The CAR faces constant rebellions and military coups. There is presence of the LRA in some parts. HIV (6%), malnourishment, lack of clean water, and faulty hygiene are concerns. Churches have lack of depth and commitment with low moral standards. Some churches in the north are often looted and burned as a form of persecution and rebellion.

Chad (Africa) - 80% of the population lives below the poverty line and corruption is prevalent - known as the world's most corrupt nation. Chad is home to more unreached peoples than any other African country. 

Chile (South America) - Crime, abuse, drugs, and materialism are all on the rise in Chile (1 in 7 women have a child by age 14). There is a massive gap between rich and poor, but focus on holistic ministry within the nation is growing. 

Prayer - Finishing Off the A's and on to the Bs

The end of February and the beginning of March have left me busy, worn out, and lacking the desire to blog. However, I haven't quit praying for the nations, and I've had an amazing time studying the book of Daniel and seeing how faithful he was to the Lord despite unpleasant events he faced. He never quit trusting in the Lord, and he prayed with fervency. Reading his passion in the prayers he offered up really challenges me in my prayer life. Honestly, sometimes it turns into a mundane task to be done before going to bed at night. Of course, there are times throughout my day I pray also, but seldom with the passion that is so evident in the life of Daniel.

Sunday evening we had a praise and prayer night at my church. This sort of stemmed from the worship benefit my Bible study did in order to raise money for my Peruvian friend JP. However, this time it wasn't established as a fundraiser but rather a night of praise and prayer, a night to rejoice and thank God for all He has done for us while also offering up prayer on behalf of those in need. Even though the attendance wasn't high, it was an amazing night. I was blessed to hear the voices around me praying in unison in small groups for various situations. Tears were shed, and God moved.

I do believe this year God is teaching me about prayer. Last year, I felt Him calling me to "know" His word, and I decided to do a chronological study of the Bible. This year He's taking that challenge a bit further and challenging me to really dive into the word and study books in depth while also learning passionate prayer. In doing so, I felt called to pray for the nations as a way of holding me accountable for daily prayer and teaching me about intercessory prayer for my brothers and sisters around the world. I feel like a complete failure most days in comparison to Daniel, but I know that the Lord is working on this area of my life, and already I feel the change that is taking place.

It's awesome how God works and moves in so many different ways for so many different people. I'm still awed by the fact that He desires a personal relationship with me even though there are 6 billion (or more) people on this Earth that are probably a lot cooler than I am. I'm nothing special - just a girl who fails Him daily. Yet, despite my flaws, He still chose to die for me. His blood covers my filthy stains left behind by sin. He loves me for me, and He reaches down to me with love, grace, and mercy.

So because I'm behind, I'm not going to list each country with prayer requests that I've been praying for since my last Prayer for the Nations update, but I will give you a list to pray for, and if you would like more information on any one in particular feel free to comment, and I'll give you specific information. Please join me in praying for:

Australia (Pacific) - including Christmas Island and Cocos Islands
Norfolk Island (self governing dependent territory of Australia)
Austria (Europe)
Azerbaijan (Asia)
Bahamas (Caribbean)
Bahrain (Asia)
Bangladesh (Asia)
Barbados (Caribbean)
Belarus (Europe)

Main concerns for prayer would be the devil's movement through intensifying persecution as well as the intertwining of Christianity with secularism and materialism.

Day 4 - Health

Please, please, please be praying for my health. Yesterday, I woke up with a horrible headache and my stomach was unsettled. I was supposed to meet a friend at 11, but I decided to sleep in a little bit longer and ended up meeting with her at 1pm. After a bit of rest yesterday morning, I was feeling a bit better, but still all day I lacked much of an appetite all day. I normally don't have problems adjusting to the food here, and my allergies don't bother me near as much. I'm not sure what is going on. Praise the Lord that I do feel better today; it seems that I can't get enough to eat. Haha! Prayers would be appreciated.

Yesterday I spent the afternoon with my dear friend Teresa. Her mother fixed lunch, and we ate with her mom and sister (who is visiting from France). I really enjoy her family, and they make me feel right at home. Afterwards we went to the U.S. Embassy to see what Teresa needs for a VISA for a job she is applying for with LAN Airlines. Right now she is out of work, so please pray for her to find something. Her last job was not paying her as they said they would, so she left. A lot of the job market is corrupt here from what I understand. As they were explaining to me, sometimes the jobs don't pay you at all, and other times they can't pay you in full what they owe you for your work. The pay is not high for most jobs either.

I had Pinkberry ice cream yesterday for the first time. It is an ice cream chain similar to Honey's in Goshen or Sweet Cece's if you've ever been to Nashville. The only difference really is that they serve you rather than you serving yourself, and there is a set price for each size with and without toppings.

Last evening I went to Camino de Vida {the church that has become my regular church here}. It was good to be back, to see some familiar faces, and to worship the Lord through song. I miss singing in Spanish when I am in the States, but I like hearing sermons better in English than in Spanish. I don't mind them in Spanish, and it helps me to learn and focus on the words, but in English I am able to take notes without worrying about possibly missing the next thing the pastor says.

Today I'm headed to Pachacamac to play with some adorable children! Leo is taking me there, and I'm going to attempt the bus home. I've only done it with other people, but Juan Carlos told me an easy/safe way to return home; however, he wasn't sure how to tell me to get there. Usually if I can do it returning home, I can do it getting there the next time. I'm not sure why I'm like that with the busses here; it seems a bit backwards!

Let me leave you with a verse ~ Romans 9:16

It {salvation} does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God’s mercy.

Ramblings of Day 3 (and a few omitted from Day 2)

Taxi Drivers

I forgot to mention in my last post the crazy taxi drivers I had on Tuesday as I arrived at my various friends' homes. The first taxi driver I had was listening to a Peruvian radio station when I got into the car, but being a young(er) man, he promptly changed the station to English when I got in. I had to chuckle to myself as he sang the wrong words, very loud, and off pitch. He then missed a turn I told him to take and in the end when he got turned around to where we were headed, he charged me 3 soles more because it was further than he thought it would be. (I was told he had already ripped me off charging me 8 soles when it should have been no more than 6.) Ten soles and a bit of frustration later, I arrived at Gisell's house. Later on the way to Teresa's home, I got in a taxi with an older man who was listening to awful classical music. I could have handled it better, but he was playing it so loud that when I received a call, my friend on the other end couldn't hear me over the music. Lastly, as I arrived home, I again was in the taxi with an older man. He was quite the talker, and he asked me where I was from and why I was here, told me about his brothers in California, and attempted to teach me Quechua (another language spoken in the mountains of Peru). We also chatted about missions and why church and Christianity is so important to me. Because we were laughing and having a good time, I didn't pay attention to where my road was, and he passed it. Thankfully I realized it another block down the road, and he turned around and went back...free of charge might I add. He asked if I would take his email address and email him because he had some more questions about Christ. I haven't emailed him yet, but I do believe our paths crossed for a purpose last evening.

Mission Trip

My friend Leo asked me last evening if I would want to/be able to go with a medical team July 9th-17th to the highlands of Peru and translate for a doctor. Leo told me I could go free of charge, and I decided I would assist. I would like to ask for prayer as I am nervous about not knowing medical terminology, and I don't know any others going on the trip apart from Leo. The team is coming from the States, so at least we'll have that in common, but I don't know how many, males/females, ages, etc. I do believe, however, that this trip is in the plan of the Lord for me this summer. It will be a very new experience for me, and I know it will stretch me a lot. It will be a mission trip like none I've done before, but I trust the Lord will be with me through it all. Your prayers are much appreciated before and during this trip.

What I Did Today

Today, I was able to go to Manchay to spend time with the kids at the Family Center (a part of Kids Alive here in Lima). I helped with the 2 & 3 year olds mainly to spend time with my dear friend Mary, a  teacher whom I have grown very close to during my trips down here. Mary is a very grateful and humble woman. She is so encouraging and a woman of extreme faith. I have learned so much just from her character, and I am grateful to be able to spend time with her year after year.

There are a few interns here with Kids Alive that I was able to connect with briefly today. I exchanged phone numbers with one of the girls, and I believe I'm going to take them around Lima on Monday. That should be fun!

This evening, I went to dinner with my dear friends Javier and Nilton. We had Chifa (Peruvian Chinese), and sat and talked for a few hours. I love reconnecting with old friends here. It always seems we are able to pick up right where we left off the year before. Of course, the two of them together is a crazy combination, but at least they make me laugh, and we had a great time together!

Upcoming Event/Prayer Requests

My trip to "La Merced" at the edge of the jungle this weekend has been cancelled. I'm beginning to think that it's not meant for me to go to the jungle because it never seems to work out for me to go. However, this weekend is quickly filling up with things to do, so I was slightly relieved to not have to decide which was more important for me to do.

Next weekend (July 6-8) I plan to travel with Teresa and her family 5 hours from Lima (on the coast still though) to camp. We will be staying at a country club where there is lots to see and do. Pray for me as I prepare for this time with them. 

I'm attending a Medical Mission Trip to Juaraz July 9-17. Pray for my nerves leading up to the trip and safety and knowledge while on the trip. (See above for more information.)

Surfing Camp Outreach {July 20-22} - Some friends are planning to help with this outreach and have asked that I attend. I haven't decided for sure that I will, so pray for clarity as I do make my decision. 

This month is filling up fast. It's hard to find time to go to Pachacamac to the orphanage to see the children, but I am hoping to go at least once next week and a few times after I return from Juaraz. I will also be helping in Manchay a few days a week. I love being here, but it's just so much to pack into a short amount of time.

Continue to pray for my safety and my health while I am here, also. My stomach has been a little off since I arrived, but it's nothing to stop me from doing what I love. I miss you all back home who are reading this. 

Mom and Dad, everyone asks how you are and when you are coming! I think it's time for you to make a trip down here :)

Heavy

I'm not sure what it is, but my heart feels heavy. 

I have been having the strangest dreams at night, 

often leaving me waking up slightly frightened
or on the verge of tears.

What are these dreams exactly?
Most of the time, I can't even remember them.

Last night I woke up at 3:43 a.m. nearly in tears. After I gather myself, I tried to recall exactly what had brought on this feeling. The only thing I could remember was that I had been talking with children in Spanish; the children seemed anxious about something. 

At this I woke up, I felt tears burn my eyes, and I heard the voice of God say, "PRAY!!" It was loud, it was clear, and it was demanding. What to pray for, I wasn't exactly sure, so I prayed, "God, whatever it is that you have laid so strongly on my heart, these children you have placed in my dream, bless them. Lead them out of trouble and into Your loving arms. Hold them God, and let them find comfort in You alone." At that, I felt peace, and shortly after I drifted back to sleep. I slept peacefully the rest of the night, yet when I awoke at 6:30, reminders of that earlier episode flooded my mind. Throughout the day I have been reminded of this event, and throughout the day, I have wondered who these children are. Are they kids I knew in Peru? Are they children on a mission field I have yet to find? Are they kids I will one day meet or are they children who only passed through my dream? My heart aches for them, but whoever they are and whatever situation they are facing, I know my God is in control, and He is walking with them every step of the way. 

Even on my worst days, I'm thankful that God has chosen to use me to aide in the advancement of His kingdom. I'm sinful and not very important by the world's standards, but in God's eyes I am loved and adored.

'But He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses so that Christ's power may rest on me.' ~ 2 Corinthians 12:9

Eres Favorecido

Last evening I was unable to sleep. My mind was racing with heavy feelings for my friends, God's grace on me as a lowly human being, and how I was going to incorporate more of Christ into my every day living so that there is not even an ounce of doubt that I am a passionate follower of Christ.

Finally about 12:30 I decided that rather than lay in bed with my eyes open and my mind racing, it would be better to spend some time in prayer. As I began to pray, I had a heavy feeling pressing me to listen to a sermon from my church in Peru. I used to listen to these weekly, but I haven't listened to them in a while. I didn't want to get out of bed to get my computer and take the time to start it up, so I passed off the "thought" as a crazy idea that maybe I would do later. However, as I continued to pray and after I finished, that prompting didn't go away, and I became curious as to why after months of not listening to these podcasts would I randomly have a "desire" to listen to one. I gave in, got out of bed, grabbed my computer, and logged on to the podcast. There were 4 available to watch, all from the month of December. I wasn't sure which to choose, so I asked God which one was meant for me. I quickly heard his response, "December 12", and I realized my cursor was already highlighting that exact sermon.

I took some notes, and thought I would share the most important points.

• We are all children of God; it is up to us whether or not we accept His favor upon our lives.
• When someone has chosen the favor of God they are changed. We see this change in their smile, bright eyes, and the way they love others.
• You are blessed by God; you are favored by God.
• God has blessed you with everything that you have. There will always be people that have less than you and need more than you. 
• Whatever talents you have been given were given to you in order that you use them to glorify the Lord.
• Many times we do not recognize the blessing God has placed on our lives. We ought to be grateful for the things that HE has given us. 
• When much has been given, much is required. When God asks us to do something, it is always to advance His kingdom. 
• We have been blessed by God in order that we may in turn bless others.
• The world is waiting. There are people that are desperate to know the love and peace that only God can give. They are waiting for you to reach out to them and show them the mercy of Christ. You may be the only one to ever reach a specific person. 
• God is faithful. If we do as He asks, He will take care of the details. That which is impossible for man is possible for God. 
• The favor of God does not depend on how you feel. Sometimes the favor of God does not feel good, but in the end, everything is for His glory. Sometimes we think that what we are doing has no worth, but God is using us even when we don't realize it. 
• Look at what God has done throughout your life. Everything, good and bad, has occurred in order to help us to grow in faith and love.

Another great example of why I miss Peru so much...my Pastor Robert Barringer hits me on the spot all the time!! Lo and behold, this sermon hit right on the spot with my thoughts, and after hearing it, I quickly drifted off to sleep for 7 1/2 straight hours.

Earlier in the day I had read a short blog about serving others and living out the

will of God in 2011. At the end of the blog there was a quote listed

by Donald Miller. It went something like this...

"I will not watch 2011. I will participate!"

My question for you is...

Pasion para Servir! Lo tienes?? = Passion to Serve! Do you have it?

Proverbs 16

¹ We can make our own plans,

      but the Lord gives the right answer.

⁹ We can make our plans,

      but the Lord determines our steps.

 ³³ We may throw the dice,

      but the Lord determines how they fall.

I love the book of Proverbs. There are so many great messages and themes that can be derived from this text. Earlier this week, I was reading chapter 16 for my devotions, and the above verses stuck out to me.

You see, anyone who knows me knows that I almost always have a plan. I'm not as "planned out" as I used to be (Peru changed me a little in that department), but I still do like to think about the future and imagine where I will be in 5 years, 10 years, and 50 years. However, I've learned that no matter how much I plan and imagine, life never turns out just the way I picture it in my mind. My life and my plans have changed drastically since my college graduation just 2 years ago. I never would have imagined then that I would teach overseas; now I am trying to pay off my loans so that I can go back. 

Just last week I was talking to friends about my plans for the future. I was telling them all about the length of time I planned to work here to pay off my loans, and then my plan to return to Peru to teach after that. Ironically, that night, about 2 hours after this conversation, I came across Proverbs 16 during my devotions. To top it off, the next morning I woke up to an email from a friend about my heart's desires and God's heart. This friend spoke of my longing and brokenness for the country of Peru, and how maybe what I think is an appropriate, responsible plan, may not be God's plan at all. 

Each day since returning home last December (2009), I pray about a future in Peru. My desire to be there grows daily, yet I feel confident that God is telling me right now isn't the right time. However, I don't know that He plans to keep me here in the States as long as I have "planned" to stay. These verses just helped to reassure me that God is in control, and that no matter how much I plan, He makes the final decision. 

Mi Dios Es Tan Grande

Talk about spiritual warfare. If it isn't something personal to me being attacked, it is someone close to me. It seems as if one thing comes after another, and it is making me sick to my stomach. I pray that it will end, but then again...no one ever said being a Christian was easy. If anyone understands that, the Apostle Paul knew it full well.

In the last month multiple friends have come to me with prayer needs for wrong choices and/or injustice. Add to that the sickness and physical pain of those around us, and it becomes obvious that this world we live in is a dark, nasty place.

I am learning more and more about the Bible and it's truth each day. As I currently study 1 Corinthians, Galatians, John, and Proverbs (all for different purposes), I am seeing similar themes of salvation and living a Christian life. I find hope and encouragement. I find peace that only a living Savior can provide. I am learning now more than ever what it means to cling to the cross, carry every need before our Creator, and to depend on him for wisdom, strength, and healing.

Paul's life is a perfect example of strength and perserverance even in the most difficult circumstances. He was imprisoned multiple times for preaching the gospel, yet he never gave up. He was blunt, honest, and personal with those around him wanting nothing more than to see people saved. God gave him huge responsibilities because God knew that Paul could handle it. 1st Corinthians 10:13 says, "No temptation  has seized you except that which is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it." Paul never gave up when things got tough.

I am thankful for Paul's example. I am grateful to God that he is big and mighty. Like the Spanish song says, "Mi Dios es tan grande, tan fuerte, poderoso. No hay nada q no pueda hacer." I pray that even in the tough situations and the moments of spiritual warfare that I never forget the God of the universe who loves me enough to care about me, an insignificant human being living on this earth with 6 billion plus other human beings. I pray that through conversations and mentoring relationships that I would have the words of God to speak to others that would reveal to them the love of Christ and the power of his resurrection. I pray the I not give up in the tough times and that I would perservere to the end.

God is in control, and I will not let Satan defeat me!