(Note: This post has been backdated. I plan on doing two more posts after this one to complete the Cali Series of blog posts. Videos will follow as pictures are available.)
Monday began by finding out what we were going to be doing that day.
Our hosts (Vince & Alyson) and logistics officer (Miss Sandra) informed us that we were going out to Pastor and Pastora's family retreat house in the surrounding countryside of Cali. In fact, all the international attendee's of the Master's Plan were going!
So we all got ready and Vince also shared that they would like to go by a house that they have been praying for. This is a pretty neat story in itself and deserves more space than I can give it. They have been looking for a bigger place to do ministry out of God is moving to get one that they found that would do nicely. The trick is the price!
We went by the house and were able to go inside. We walked through and then met on the roof to pray for God's blessing in securing it for the right price. I'll have more information to share tomorrow!
After going by the house it was time to get to the church to catch our bus to Pastor's house.
It was a little bit of a trip out to their house. Backspace. Re-type. . . their AMAZING house! It was beautiful! I'll have pics in the video. So check that out.
We got to relax a bit and tried some fruit that looked like little "tommy toes" tomatoes. They weren't! They were some sort of little fruit that tasted like a cross between grapes and baby tomatoes. Tangy and then full and rich. Very good. I ate too many of them I think!
We sat and relaxed and talked to those we could talk to. Then we came inside. Pastor and Pastora talked to all of us and told us how excited they are to see this Plan going to other countries to help spread the Kingdom.
Then it was time to eat. (Eat? What's that? We didn't ever eat or have too much food!! LOL!)
Did I mention that we ate??!? It was a plate full of food. Four kinds of meat. Potatoes. Plus more. Also, we were offered soup that had a leg of chicken in it. This was not a Weight Watchers portion, people! Ugh. S-t-u-f-f-e-d!
The best part for me was talking with a youth pastor from Guatemala. Often on this trip, we would find ourselves, despite Vince's best attempts, at a time where we did not have an interpreter and a desire to communicate. I have decided I would like to study Spanish more and become fluent. God is gonna have to do something to work that out!! I digress. The point is that I found myself tired often and not knowing enough Spanish (often) to really have a conversation. So, I found it difficult (that's frustrating spelled differently) to communicate with any meaning or depth without Vince or Alyson or Linda Kimberly or Cesar or anybody else that translated for us. Not their fault, just part of it.
But here I was sitting at a table with Pastora's brother who spoke VERY little English and this youth pastor. As we tried to communicate with each other, I began to understand him and he began to understand me. We figured out that we both knew enough of the other's main language to sort of patchwork a conversation together in which we could get our meanings across. It was really fun to talk and laugh and tell stories. God was working in that I believe.
After that, the Cali 8 (that's us gringos from the Prairie Lakes District) got together to cogitate with Dr. Kraemer about the future and how all of the things we had experienced had changed us. And what we were going to do with it.
I have to insert one thing here. While we were talking, there was, unbeknownst to us, a small almost invisible bug that was biting our legs! It wasn't a mosquito. I think they call them (excuse the spelling) seczundos. They didn't suck your blood out. They bit you and left round blood marks on your legs, arms, chests or wherever! Nasty little buggers! But the bites aren't that bad besides looking yucky all over you. It was the next day that was horrible!! We were told that we would really start itching the next day and they were not kidding!!! But I get ahead of myself. : ]
After our talk and a wait for the bus, we left to go back to our "casa." We did see a flame eater guy at one of the intersections! That was cool. Or hot. Depending. Eh.
We got back and we were told that they normally do a banquet for the team's last night there. So there were little boxes on the table for us and instead of Alyson's awesome cooking, they told us they had heard us talking about missing pizza. So they had ordered us pizza, Cali-style!!
It was very good! One was a chorizo, ham and cheese pizza and the other was plantain pizza. Don't make that face!! It was pretty good. Surprisingly. Different, but good. There ya go. That's a good description! Well, you didn't have to eat it. So there. : p
Next, we gathered around the table again. Vince, Alyson and Sandra presented each of us with a box and a verbal accolade that highlighted how they had experienced us during the past two weeks. Nutshell alert: They said nice things about us.
I think I speak for everyone when I say, we had grown together as a team, including Vince, Alyson and Sandra. This was the official moment in time when I realized that the trip was done. And we would miss them. They had become people that we had grown to love. Further, for me at least, it was a realization that the people that we had grown closer to, that lived all over three states, would be going back to those places and the closeness of serving/learning together would be a little more distant.
That part wasn't fun. It was sad.
We had experienced something together and there is a bond there. God orchestrated it. Train of thought here. Then, what is He going to do with it? God does amazing things. Wonder what He knows about this, that we don't know about it? Hmmmmm.
Lastly, we all went upstairs and packed and packed and finally - went to sleep. If you can count going to sleep for three hours (from 12:30 am to 3:15 am) as actual sleep.
Stay tuned for another post tomorrow!
Monday, September 30, 2013
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Our Last Sunday in Cali (For Now)
Our morning began with a great breakfast (as usual) and then we headed to church! We went in early so that we could experience what the church calls Consolidacion. We don't really have a word for it in english, so the best we could come up with was a cross between assimilation and incorporation. It is how they move people from being church attenders into disciples. It is the first step after coming to church.
The service was wonderful, as usual! The speaker was a pastor from a church in Kansas City. He delivered God's word. He spoke on the Master's Plan main theme: Conquering the Impossible! John 11:38, Lazarus being raised from the dead. "Did I not tell you that if you believe you will see the glory of God?" Great stuff, as usual, from God!
After the service, we had lunch and then we went up to see Cristo del Rey. Christ the King. It is not a big a the Christ statue in Rio de Janeiro but it is second! Entonces (then), we went down to the city artisan market. We all had things that we wanted to take back with us to the US and this is the place to shop! They have so many handmade items! Ear rings, hats, clothes, coasters, sandals, etc! We shopped about an hour or so. It was fun to negotiate a bit.
After that, we had a change of plan (Be flexible!!) and went downtown to see the city center. It was a city square and many old buildings. After our little tourism jaunt, it was time to get back!
Bill and April had been asked to sing, play and drum for the service that night at church. We prayed for them and they went and practiced. We met back up with them for the service but only stayed until they did the offertory. Then we headed back home. As you can see in the video, they gave their best to the Lord. Pastora asked why they weren't playing the whole time?? LOL.
Vince and Alyson had changed the plan today for some secret thing they were trying to make happen tomorrow for us. We still didn't know and so we had to wait until Monday morning to find out. Whatever it is it will be very fun!
Today was the day that I thought more about the fact that our trip is quickly coming to an end. It is a strange feeling. Can't wait to get home to see the family! Yet, have had great experiences here with a dynamic church and dynamic people! It has been a time of renewing the soul. Drawing close to God and serving Him whole-heartedly. We will never be the same.
Post for tomorrow coming soon! And don't forget to go back and make sure you haven't missed a day!
The service was wonderful, as usual! The speaker was a pastor from a church in Kansas City. He delivered God's word. He spoke on the Master's Plan main theme: Conquering the Impossible! John 11:38, Lazarus being raised from the dead. "Did I not tell you that if you believe you will see the glory of God?" Great stuff, as usual, from God!
After the service, we had lunch and then we went up to see Cristo del Rey. Christ the King. It is not a big a the Christ statue in Rio de Janeiro but it is second! Entonces (then), we went down to the city artisan market. We all had things that we wanted to take back with us to the US and this is the place to shop! They have so many handmade items! Ear rings, hats, clothes, coasters, sandals, etc! We shopped about an hour or so. It was fun to negotiate a bit.
After that, we had a change of plan (Be flexible!!) and went downtown to see the city center. It was a city square and many old buildings. After our little tourism jaunt, it was time to get back!
Bill and April had been asked to sing, play and drum for the service that night at church. We prayed for them and they went and practiced. We met back up with them for the service but only stayed until they did the offertory. Then we headed back home. As you can see in the video, they gave their best to the Lord. Pastora asked why they weren't playing the whole time?? LOL.
Vince and Alyson had changed the plan today for some secret thing they were trying to make happen tomorrow for us. We still didn't know and so we had to wait until Monday morning to find out. Whatever it is it will be very fun!
Today was the day that I thought more about the fact that our trip is quickly coming to an end. It is a strange feeling. Can't wait to get home to see the family! Yet, have had great experiences here with a dynamic church and dynamic people! It has been a time of renewing the soul. Drawing close to God and serving Him whole-heartedly. We will never be the same.
Post for tomorrow coming soon! And don't forget to go back and make sure you haven't missed a day!
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Impact and Conquista!
This is the day that the Lord has made!
This was a photo I actually took Friday afternoon. Not bad for an iPhone! There are only two short rainy seasons during the year. And for the most part they happen around 4:30 pm. Almost clockwork. This was the first time we had seen the rain. We had really good weather most of the time. It was a little hot a few days. Being only 3 degrees from the equator, the sun rose and set almost the same time every day.
What an exciting day today was! Today was what the church calls an Impact event. We went so that we could experience one and help out. We had no idea what God was going to do!
Of course this event had been prayed for many weeks before at the prayer times and at the cell groups. An Impact event is an event that impacts the community around the church, or at a specific site in the city they are trying to reach into to make a difference (this means they share Jesus, not some event just to make themselves feel good). Everything this church does is to create an opportunity to tell people about Jesus. This is something I believe that most churches have lost. They are focused and intentional which is why they are growing!
The event we helped with was in a park that they had gone to for several weeks and walked around prayed over. This totally wowed me! The event was to give services that people in lower classes didn't routinely have access to. They had inexpensive clothes for sale (I don't know if they were gently used or new.), pet care, medical care, dental care, a bounce house, domestic abuse help, immunizations, diabetes testing, and help with insurance access. There was entertainment as well. The salsa dancers and a play from a group called Lifehouse that told the forgiveness of Jesus in a innovative way. Also, there were children's events that included a couple of the kids getting a chance to beatbox and rap. Chevere!
We all jumped in and helped out in different ways!
One of my prayers was that during this two weeks, I would have a chance to lead someone to Christ. Today that prayer was answered.
Ron, Genell and I were talking with Linda Kimberly, a church disciple that translated for us during this time. She is so sweet! She had an Evange-cube and asked if we would like to walk around a lead people to Christ. Of course we said yes! She gave us the cube and showed us how they use it to reach people. After a short introduction, off we went! Ron started. We walked through the crowd and Linda randomly picked someone.
Ron asked them if he could tell them his story. They agreed and we went over to a tree that made some shade. Ron walked them through the story of Jesus and his story with Jesus using the Evange-cube. During the course of the story, another lady, Mary, came up to the fence from the other side. She begin to listen and then she begin to cry. When Ron asked if they would like to ask Jesus into their life, all five listening said they did, including Mary. Linda led them through a repentance prayer and then their names and information was taken down for follow up. It was amazing to see God work!
Then it was Genell's turn. She talked with two ladies that prayed the prayer of repentance and asked Jesus into their hearts! God was moving in a mighty way! Others were talking with people and they were accepting Jesus as well! Children were raising their hands to accept Jesus! An outpouring of the Holy Spirit was happening as people asked to change their lives forever. It was too amazing to even describe properly.
I am only giving as much detail as I can give where I was, but I have one more story to share. Mine.
After Genell, it was my turn. I was nervous. But I had just seen the Holy Spirit move and I wasn't going to let Satan take away my chance to impact someone's live for Christ.
So Linda walked up to two of ether dancers and asked them (she is doing the talking for intros because we don't speak espanol) if we could talk with them. They said something I didn't understand and then we followed them toward a building. Then, they went into that building that had refreshments in it. I thought they must have said no and so we were going to get something to drink in the heat. We went into the building and then we walked into the back of it. As I walked into the room, there was the entire dance team, about 22 people! Linda had me stand in he he middle of the room and then told me that they all wanted to hear what I had to say. Gulp!
So I quickly said a prayer asking God to help me and started to talk. Linda translated for me and as I went along, God did something to my words! He gave them strength and meaning. They were still my small words, but He made them His words as they left my mouth. God used me to speak his Truth and Love into their lives! And as I finished with the cube and my short testimony, I asked them if they would like to have Jesus in their life. And they started nodding. All 22 of them!
Linda led them through a prayer of repentance and then people came in and took their information for follow up. Then, I walked around to each of them and met them. I got their names as well and told them I would pray for them.
What a feeling! God used me to advance his Kingdom. Me. And all I did was be willing to do what He asked me to do. He did everything else. Gloria a Dios!
God used the Conquista that night as well. This church used a secular comedian to draw people to an event where a simple testimony of a loving family led to people asking Jesus to come into their life.
Across the town that day and into the night, God continued to use people to reach people for Jesus and the number of people accepting Christ that day was around 4000.
This day made an impact in God's kingdom! One day changing 4000 lives! Wow. We prayed. God answered. Kingdom growth.
Check out the video below to see what we experienced.
Keep checking back as I continue to poster for Sunday through Tuesday!
Friday, September 27, 2013
Master's Plan Conference
Wednesday through Friday we attended the Master's Plan Conference. This conference is put on by the Casa de Oracion, the church we attended since we have arrived.
It is a leadership conference that inspires leaders through biblical preaching and by showing them how to disciple effectively. The conference is immersed in prayer before, during and after. We felt that we had been surrounded by God's provision, blessing and protection.
There were three main speakers: Pastor Fernando , Dr. Jorge Lopez and Dr. Roberto Motessi. Pastor Aldaberto Hererra and his son, Juan David also spoke. Pastora Nineja Hererra prayed frequently throughout the event.
One of my favorite points was one that Juan David made in his preaching. He said that, "Prayer is like a seed that you plant in fertile ground. Then [we] have to wait. That doesn't mean that nothing is happening." He asked why we don't preach on all the times in the Bible that prayer wasn't answered immediately. Awesome point!
My second favorite that was especially meaningful was one made by Dr. Lopez. He said that now is the time. Do not wait. Now is the time. He said that, "If you never begin a task, it is 100% failure rate." It is wrong to receive a word from God and then procrastinate it away. We don't do what God is commanding us to do and we sin in the act of doing nothing.
All of the conference was built around praise, worship and prayer. Every session included all of this because they are a staple of the church. They are the life of the church. It breathes them and exhales them on all of the people. We were so blessed to breath with this church for two weeks and to be a part of this conference.
It was a time of growth and stretching. We were reminded and challenged to again be filled with the Holy Spirit and what that really means.
The video below is a quick overview of the conference. Enjoy!
It is a leadership conference that inspires leaders through biblical preaching and by showing them how to disciple effectively. The conference is immersed in prayer before, during and after. We felt that we had been surrounded by God's provision, blessing and protection.
There were three main speakers: Pastor Fernando , Dr. Jorge Lopez and Dr. Roberto Motessi. Pastor Aldaberto Hererra and his son, Juan David also spoke. Pastora Nineja Hererra prayed frequently throughout the event.
One of my favorite points was one that Juan David made in his preaching. He said that, "Prayer is like a seed that you plant in fertile ground. Then [we] have to wait. That doesn't mean that nothing is happening." He asked why we don't preach on all the times in the Bible that prayer wasn't answered immediately. Awesome point!
My second favorite that was especially meaningful was one made by Dr. Lopez. He said that now is the time. Do not wait. Now is the time. He said that, "If you never begin a task, it is 100% failure rate." It is wrong to receive a word from God and then procrastinate it away. We don't do what God is commanding us to do and we sin in the act of doing nothing.
All of the conference was built around praise, worship and prayer. Every session included all of this because they are a staple of the church. They are the life of the church. It breathes them and exhales them on all of the people. We were so blessed to breath with this church for two weeks and to be a part of this conference.
It was a time of growth and stretching. We were reminded and challenged to again be filled with the Holy Spirit and what that really means.
The video below is a quick overview of the conference. Enjoy!
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Prayer and Construction
Today is a great example of a full day!
We started our day at 3:30 am. I am starting to understand that whole thing about "we do more before 5 am than most people do all day!"
The prayer time went from 4 am to 6 am. The prayer time was incredible! I have learned so much about prayer! What it really means to pray. We prayed for all of you. We prayed for the church. We prayed for the city. We prayed for their impact event. We prayed for the nation. We prayed for our personal lives and relationships with God. We prayed for our neighbors. We prayed for those that don't know Jesus. We prayed that they would know Jesus. We prayed for our jobs and families. We prayed for our debts, to be financially free. At the end we walked around the worship center walls and prayed for our own concerns. The reason they do this is to claim the Joshua experience for themselves. That our own walls would fall down and God would rush in. I walked around seven times (then realized that they walked around it 13 times total). I have felt the presence of the Lord so incredibly powerful in my life as we have walked and prayed and worshipped and sang. So very powerful.
We got a chance to workout again at the park so many of us did that after coming back at 6 am. I ran around the track and Bill played basketball in a pickup game with some locals. Some walked and some went on home. It was refreshing and energizing.
Breakfast and devotional. Ron did the honors for the the devotional. God answered the prayer of our hearts through Dr. Kraemer. He was supposed to arrive at 11 am, but due to a schedule mixup he didn't arrive until EARLY Wednesday morning. What did God do?
God made it so we could go back over to San Judas to work on their concrete! We had been wanting to go back over and help them some more but did not see how we would be able to do it with the Master's Plan Conference beginning on Wednesday and Dr. Kraemer arriving in the middle of the day. God had His plan for us. He heard our hearts! Doesn't he always hear our heart??
So we went over to the church (San Judas) and worked from 11 to 6 pm. We continued to work on the rebar. Making many ties to get it ready to pour concrete. On the other side of the wall, it was ready to put the forms on for the concrete. Many of the forms were ready and we were almost ready to mix the concrete. When . . .
. . . we decided to have a quick sandwich so we could continue to get done as much as possible. However, on one side, we had four people coming across the support beam at the same time. This, in hindsight, was not a good idea! April was holding some sandwiches ready for us to take down and as Bob approached the middle, I was halfway to April and Ron was between Bob and the other wall. (This is confusing! I know. Picture April, then me, then Bob in the middle of the beam and then Ron.) The beam collapsed!! And the tin roof became a giant, HOT, slide. April stepped back just in time to the safe scaffolding and the sandwiches tumbled, becoming literal SAND-wiches. Very gritty!! Meanwhile, Ron, Bob and I dropped down the tin that now funneled us toward the second floor. Tin hit the support beam, the support beam hit the bamboo and the now broken beam caught on the bamboo below and corked the end of the slide. Bob soft landed in the corked hole. Ron and I came to rest on the sides of a pile of cascaded debris. Time stopped.
Quickly, Pastor and others began scrambling to get us off the twisted metal. We quickly reached out to Bob and helped him get over to safer ground. We examined ourselves. No one was hurt. There were a few minor burns, from the tin, and a couple of scratches and that was all! However, the sandwiches had third degree burns from cooking on the metal and had to be put out of their misery. We gathered on the second floor construction area, caught our breath and accessed the site.
We prayed and thanked God.
Now. What do we do? We've got a mess. The good news is that we were able, with God's help, to recover and still pour the concrete. After mixing and pouring, we had one more job to do. We needed to make it so the roof would not allow water, should it rain, to enter the worship area below.
After moving tin and creating supports, it was finished. In my opinion, we left them with a poured concrete beam and a more solid temporary roof to continue their work. After feeling down from moving two steps back, I now felt we had gotten to a good place to leave them to continue the hard work of building the third floor. I praised God for what we had done and what, now, He would continue to accomplish in this rapidly growing church. Gloria a Dios!
We said goodbye. Went home. Had dinner. Then most of us went to experience a cell group. I stayed home because I was totally done and emotional spent. The group that went was excited when they came back and said they had a wonderful time with the cell group!
Whew. Time for bed.
Watch the video below to see what was accomplished! Thank you, God.
We started our day at 3:30 am. I am starting to understand that whole thing about "we do more before 5 am than most people do all day!"
The prayer time went from 4 am to 6 am. The prayer time was incredible! I have learned so much about prayer! What it really means to pray. We prayed for all of you. We prayed for the church. We prayed for the city. We prayed for their impact event. We prayed for the nation. We prayed for our personal lives and relationships with God. We prayed for our neighbors. We prayed for those that don't know Jesus. We prayed that they would know Jesus. We prayed for our jobs and families. We prayed for our debts, to be financially free. At the end we walked around the worship center walls and prayed for our own concerns. The reason they do this is to claim the Joshua experience for themselves. That our own walls would fall down and God would rush in. I walked around seven times (then realized that they walked around it 13 times total). I have felt the presence of the Lord so incredibly powerful in my life as we have walked and prayed and worshipped and sang. So very powerful.
We got a chance to workout again at the park so many of us did that after coming back at 6 am. I ran around the track and Bill played basketball in a pickup game with some locals. Some walked and some went on home. It was refreshing and energizing.
Breakfast and devotional. Ron did the honors for the the devotional. God answered the prayer of our hearts through Dr. Kraemer. He was supposed to arrive at 11 am, but due to a schedule mixup he didn't arrive until EARLY Wednesday morning. What did God do?
God made it so we could go back over to San Judas to work on their concrete! We had been wanting to go back over and help them some more but did not see how we would be able to do it with the Master's Plan Conference beginning on Wednesday and Dr. Kraemer arriving in the middle of the day. God had His plan for us. He heard our hearts! Doesn't he always hear our heart??
So we went over to the church (San Judas) and worked from 11 to 6 pm. We continued to work on the rebar. Making many ties to get it ready to pour concrete. On the other side of the wall, it was ready to put the forms on for the concrete. Many of the forms were ready and we were almost ready to mix the concrete. When . . .
. . . we decided to have a quick sandwich so we could continue to get done as much as possible. However, on one side, we had four people coming across the support beam at the same time. This, in hindsight, was not a good idea! April was holding some sandwiches ready for us to take down and as Bob approached the middle, I was halfway to April and Ron was between Bob and the other wall. (This is confusing! I know. Picture April, then me, then Bob in the middle of the beam and then Ron.) The beam collapsed!! And the tin roof became a giant, HOT, slide. April stepped back just in time to the safe scaffolding and the sandwiches tumbled, becoming literal SAND-wiches. Very gritty!! Meanwhile, Ron, Bob and I dropped down the tin that now funneled us toward the second floor. Tin hit the support beam, the support beam hit the bamboo and the now broken beam caught on the bamboo below and corked the end of the slide. Bob soft landed in the corked hole. Ron and I came to rest on the sides of a pile of cascaded debris. Time stopped.
Quickly, Pastor and others began scrambling to get us off the twisted metal. We quickly reached out to Bob and helped him get over to safer ground. We examined ourselves. No one was hurt. There were a few minor burns, from the tin, and a couple of scratches and that was all! However, the sandwiches had third degree burns from cooking on the metal and had to be put out of their misery. We gathered on the second floor construction area, caught our breath and accessed the site.
We prayed and thanked God.
Now. What do we do? We've got a mess. The good news is that we were able, with God's help, to recover and still pour the concrete. After mixing and pouring, we had one more job to do. We needed to make it so the roof would not allow water, should it rain, to enter the worship area below.
After moving tin and creating supports, it was finished. In my opinion, we left them with a poured concrete beam and a more solid temporary roof to continue their work. After feeling down from moving two steps back, I now felt we had gotten to a good place to leave them to continue the hard work of building the third floor. I praised God for what we had done and what, now, He would continue to accomplish in this rapidly growing church. Gloria a Dios!
We said goodbye. Went home. Had dinner. Then most of us went to experience a cell group. I stayed home because I was totally done and emotional spent. The group that went was excited when they came back and said they had a wonderful time with the cell group!
Whew. Time for bed.
Watch the video below to see what was accomplished! Thank you, God.
Monday, September 23, 2013
Group Meeting
Monday morning we had a group meeting where we worked through what God is doing in us. We met as small groups and we prayed for each other to receive what we believe that God has for us this week. It was hard work, and good work, to be open to each other talk deeply about what God is doing in our hearts. There is something about praying and bonding with each other in pursuing God's best for our lives!
After lunch, it was time for an errand. On Saturday, if you have been following along, we cleaned up an area outside the city, I needed to have a way to get those pictures from Steve and onto my iPad. So to the mall we went. We took the bus and it was a very hot day. On top of that the bus was very full. The best way for most that live here to get around is to buy a motorcycle. They are cheaper and they get better gas mileage. Cars keep their value here. A car sold used in the States for $4000 would be $6000 here.
The mall was an open air mall and very pretty. It was hot so we asked if we could find a iced drink. That's when we saw the Juan Valdez kiosk. These are like Starbucks in their popularity. They are also very prevalent. While we were waiting, an armed security guard came by Guess to do a bank pickup. So of course there had to be a picture. Sawed off shotguns aren't displayed that openly in the States.
We found the store that we were looking for and got the accessory that I needed. Since my keyboard for writing these blogs died a sudden death the previous night (apparently gravity works in Cali the same as the US), we also went to a store kind of a cross between Walmart and Target. But we didn't find what I needed, and it was time to get back for the a portion of 12 Hours of Prayer. So into taxis and then home.
One cultural thing: many, many stoplights have venders that walk between the cars and sell things like gum, drinks, fruit, ice cream and, well, just about anything. One time we got a stoplight and the vender walked by and put some gum on the windshield. If you take it, then when he or she comes back by, you pay. That's right! The windshield is now a marketing display. Pretty smart, huh?
Not all of us went. Some of us stayed back and did various things, like calling family, helping clean the home and resting a bit.
Twelve hours of prayer is done three times a week. 4 am to 12 pm and 3 pm to 7 pm. Every two hours they repeat the same structure with specific church needs. These days cover the times when there are not church functions, like Wednesday night groups for example.
After the prayer time, we had dinner and then met with Pastor's group of disciples and Pastor's wife's group for a group leadership meeting. They are having an impact event on Saturday and a leadership meeting was done instead of meeting as discipleship groups which is normally done. They went over the event from each person that has a responsibility, which consists of about 1/4 of the team. Every event to reach the community has a high level of planning.
We think that we like to have food? Well, this culture is more so. Every time we have had a meeting food has been involved. This meeting was the same. We had empanadas and juice.
After the meeting, we went back to the house, talked and decompressed. Tomorrow would be another filled day and would hold some surprises for us. We are excited what God is doing with us and among us as a group!
After lunch, it was time for an errand. On Saturday, if you have been following along, we cleaned up an area outside the city, I needed to have a way to get those pictures from Steve and onto my iPad. So to the mall we went. We took the bus and it was a very hot day. On top of that the bus was very full. The best way for most that live here to get around is to buy a motorcycle. They are cheaper and they get better gas mileage. Cars keep their value here. A car sold used in the States for $4000 would be $6000 here.
The mall was an open air mall and very pretty. It was hot so we asked if we could find a iced drink. That's when we saw the Juan Valdez kiosk. These are like Starbucks in their popularity. They are also very prevalent. While we were waiting, an armed security guard came by Guess to do a bank pickup. So of course there had to be a picture. Sawed off shotguns aren't displayed that openly in the States.
We found the store that we were looking for and got the accessory that I needed. Since my keyboard for writing these blogs died a sudden death the previous night (apparently gravity works in Cali the same as the US), we also went to a store kind of a cross between Walmart and Target. But we didn't find what I needed, and it was time to get back for the a portion of 12 Hours of Prayer. So into taxis and then home.
One cultural thing: many, many stoplights have venders that walk between the cars and sell things like gum, drinks, fruit, ice cream and, well, just about anything. One time we got a stoplight and the vender walked by and put some gum on the windshield. If you take it, then when he or she comes back by, you pay. That's right! The windshield is now a marketing display. Pretty smart, huh?
Not all of us went. Some of us stayed back and did various things, like calling family, helping clean the home and resting a bit.
Twelve hours of prayer is done three times a week. 4 am to 12 pm and 3 pm to 7 pm. Every two hours they repeat the same structure with specific church needs. These days cover the times when there are not church functions, like Wednesday night groups for example.
After the prayer time, we had dinner and then met with Pastor's group of disciples and Pastor's wife's group for a group leadership meeting. They are having an impact event on Saturday and a leadership meeting was done instead of meeting as discipleship groups which is normally done. They went over the event from each person that has a responsibility, which consists of about 1/4 of the team. Every event to reach the community has a high level of planning.
We think that we like to have food? Well, this culture is more so. Every time we have had a meeting food has been involved. This meeting was the same. We had empanadas and juice.
After the meeting, we went back to the house, talked and decompressed. Tomorrow would be another filled day and would hold some surprises for us. We are excited what God is doing with us and among us as a group!
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Worshipping at Cali
- Just a reminder to make sure you go back and check out any posts you might have missed since I am posting multiple posts per day in order to catch up.
On Sunday, we attended the service at the Casa de Oracion. It was quite an experience! Apparently there was a problem when they started to grow. How to get 2000 people out of the worship center and 2000 more into it in 15 minutes.
Pastor knew that our God is an organized God. He likes order. So they knew that it had to be done. They then made an extra sliding door that accessed the street for a main exit and created a line that folded around the building for an entrance. They have six services on Sunday so you can see why this is so important.
Another main focus of this Sabbath day, was a special Colombian lunch dish that is called sancocho. This meal is served by many families as a traditional lunch. The family helps prepare it. So we all jumped in and cut and diced and stirred and prepared lunch.
It is a chicken, beef or fish soup with yucca, carrots, plantains and corn pieces. Very good!
After lunch we had a little free time to rest or to explore. Some of us went to the grocery store with Alyson and then also to see some areas, within walking distance. Some took naps and caught up on a little lost sleep. Others went to go play some basketball. I haven't played in a long time so I didn't make a single shot. But it was very fun!
Unfortunately, after a rebound from the goal, Wellington ran across the court just as Vince was grabbing the ball. They got tangled together and Wellington hit his head. He didn't have a concussion. Praise God! But he did get a big goose egg. We prayed for him. And, it was time to go back anyway, so we went.
I have to take a moment to mention three things in particular. First, it is very beautiful here. Please notice the pictures of the flowers, trees, vistas and mountains. Steve has a wonderful eye for capturing God's beauty here.
Second, here there is a tiny lizard that is frequently found around the house. It is called lagartija. They chirp a lot and it tends to echo around the house. It is completely harmless and stays away from people. It is just unique to see it around the house. There is one at the end of the video.
Lastly, they have amazing fruit here! We have been blessed by having many different types of juices and fruits. Most of them were very good. And my favorite is not exported. Very sad. I wish you could try them all. But wait! You can! How about praying about coming down here on a mission trip? Start now! And be open to what God may call you to do. Think of the fruits you could bear from a trip like this!
On Sunday, we attended the service at the Casa de Oracion. It was quite an experience! Apparently there was a problem when they started to grow. How to get 2000 people out of the worship center and 2000 more into it in 15 minutes.
Pastor knew that our God is an organized God. He likes order. So they knew that it had to be done. They then made an extra sliding door that accessed the street for a main exit and created a line that folded around the building for an entrance. They have six services on Sunday so you can see why this is so important.
Another main focus of this Sabbath day, was a special Colombian lunch dish that is called sancocho. This meal is served by many families as a traditional lunch. The family helps prepare it. So we all jumped in and cut and diced and stirred and prepared lunch.
It is a chicken, beef or fish soup with yucca, carrots, plantains and corn pieces. Very good!
After lunch we had a little free time to rest or to explore. Some of us went to the grocery store with Alyson and then also to see some areas, within walking distance. Some took naps and caught up on a little lost sleep. Others went to go play some basketball. I haven't played in a long time so I didn't make a single shot. But it was very fun!
Unfortunately, after a rebound from the goal, Wellington ran across the court just as Vince was grabbing the ball. They got tangled together and Wellington hit his head. He didn't have a concussion. Praise God! But he did get a big goose egg. We prayed for him. And, it was time to go back anyway, so we went.
I have to take a moment to mention three things in particular. First, it is very beautiful here. Please notice the pictures of the flowers, trees, vistas and mountains. Steve has a wonderful eye for capturing God's beauty here.
Second, here there is a tiny lizard that is frequently found around the house. It is called lagartija. They chirp a lot and it tends to echo around the house. It is completely harmless and stays away from people. It is just unique to see it around the house. There is one at the end of the video.
Lastly, they have amazing fruit here! We have been blessed by having many different types of juices and fruits. Most of them were very good. And my favorite is not exported. Very sad. I wish you could try them all. But wait! You can! How about praying about coming down here on a mission trip? Start now! And be open to what God may call you to do. Think of the fruits you could bear from a trip like this!
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Saturday in Cali
Wanted to let you all know that we have been very busy since Saturday and it has been difficult to find time to post. We have also had some tech problems (my keyboard broke and we had a photo transport problem). So here it is! I have post dated it back to the original day!
We started this day at 12 am! The House of Prayer is truly a house of prayer. There were around 800 people that showed up to pray for three hours that morning. The people are so passionate for God and want his direction.
We came back home and we back to sleep for a few hours, but we had more to do. So we got up, had breakfast, and went to the Northwest part of the city to help a church impact it's community around it.
The pastor of this church has focused on prayer, the Word and reaching the community. And it is making a difference! No surprise!! It is biblical!!
We cleaned up alleys and gutters! Handed out food staples kits and hygiene kits! And yes, even pulled weeds (God teaches lessons about your past even in the weeds!)
While we were having empanadas with some of the local people (very hospitable), one girl hurt her leg and Ron was able to look at it and tell them what he thought could be wrong. It was awesome that he was able to minister to her and her friends as helped her. Also, we gathered around her and prayed for her.
When it was time to go we gathered up and the local people wanted to take pictures with us. These people love God and are serving Him. There's a reason that this little church has grown from 40 to 320!
Next we came back for a little rest time where we had some free time. This didn't last long though!
We got ready and went to the Youth Service. It was the release of the Worship Team's new DVD and CD. En Esta Cruz. It was a concert in form, but not in the way they gave God the glory and genuinely praised him as we all sang the songs and praised God. It was very good music and lyrics!
After this we went back and collapsed. Very busy day and a very fulfilling day!! God was with us and worked in and through us. God is doing amazing things!!
Enjoy the video!!
Saturday in Cali from Dave Foshee on Vimeo.
We started this day at 12 am! The House of Prayer is truly a house of prayer. There were around 800 people that showed up to pray for three hours that morning. The people are so passionate for God and want his direction.
We came back home and we back to sleep for a few hours, but we had more to do. So we got up, had breakfast, and went to the Northwest part of the city to help a church impact it's community around it.
The pastor of this church has focused on prayer, the Word and reaching the community. And it is making a difference! No surprise!! It is biblical!!
We cleaned up alleys and gutters! Handed out food staples kits and hygiene kits! And yes, even pulled weeds (God teaches lessons about your past even in the weeds!)
While we were having empanadas with some of the local people (very hospitable), one girl hurt her leg and Ron was able to look at it and tell them what he thought could be wrong. It was awesome that he was able to minister to her and her friends as helped her. Also, we gathered around her and prayed for her.
When it was time to go we gathered up and the local people wanted to take pictures with us. These people love God and are serving Him. There's a reason that this little church has grown from 40 to 320!
Next we came back for a little rest time where we had some free time. This didn't last long though!
We got ready and went to the Youth Service. It was the release of the Worship Team's new DVD and CD. En Esta Cruz. It was a concert in form, but not in the way they gave God the glory and genuinely praised him as we all sang the songs and praised God. It was very good music and lyrics!
After this we went back and collapsed. Very busy day and a very fulfilling day!! God was with us and worked in and through us. God is doing amazing things!!
Enjoy the video!!
Construction Day 2 in Cali
We started the day with what has become the routine. Devotions and breakfast. Everyday is so full so we get started pretty early. Today, (Friday) we worked at the church again to try to get them closer to pouring the first horizontal beam for the third floor. Our hope was to actually pour, but that didn't happen. Here is a quick video of what the day was full of.
The people of the church would just come by and stay for awhile and work. Some came out for the whole day. They worked on the third floor or cooked food to sell to the community. This day they made $120 dollars to go toward building the roof. Their passion is amazing!
It was such a joy to work toward a common goal in the name of Jesus that we did not want to leave. In fact, I personally wanted to do "just one more thing." But it was eventually time to go. Muy triste! There were tears shed. It had been a ministry to them, but in turn it ministered to us.
We came back and Alyson had made chicken and rice soup with cabbage salad. It was very good. We then rested as we were going to Casa de Oracion for midnight prayer. We were exhausted!! It has been a very full two days.
One last note. When the people of the church pray here they pray together at the same time. The Spirit was so heavy on us as we joined together in prayer. It was such a blessing!
At the end of the day it was difficult to leave. We had worked together with the people of the church for two solid days and gotten to know them. They had been so hospitable and truly loved on us.
The people of the church would just come by and stay for awhile and work. Some came out for the whole day. They worked on the third floor or cooked food to sell to the community. This day they made $120 dollars to go toward building the roof. Their passion is amazing!
It was such a joy to work toward a common goal in the name of Jesus that we did not want to leave. In fact, I personally wanted to do "just one more thing." But it was eventually time to go. Muy triste! There were tears shed. It had been a ministry to them, but in turn it ministered to us.
We came back and Alyson had made chicken and rice soup with cabbage salad. It was very good. We then rested as we were going to Casa de Oracion for midnight prayer. We were exhausted!! It has been a very full two days.
One last note. When the people of the church pray here they pray together at the same time. The Spirit was so heavy on us as we joined together in prayer. It was such a blessing!
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Construction Begins! (For Us)
One project while we are here is to work at a church where they have been praying for people to help build the next level of the church, literally. Today I decided to put some of our pics into a video instead of typing it all out for you.
This church has grown to the point where they need more space. The bottom floor is kind of like a garage type area. They dug out the sides to put footers down in the ground about 8 feet so that they could build up. After pouring the footers they then have been pouring the concrete supports that will give them the second and third floor. The second floor will be a balcony and the third will be classroom space for small groups for kids and adults.
Much of the time it is only the pastor that can build it because most others work during the day. It was a JOY to serve alongside these highly passionate people. There were two teens there that were so on fire. I would look over at them during the course of the day and they would have their eyes closed and be praising God or praying to God. Instead of being out playing or running around, they are working with us. This is their church family and they clearly love God with all their hearts, mind, soul and strength.
Pray for us tomorrow! God is answering prayers here. Steve and Genell arrived safely and are with us now. God is moving here. He is good.
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
On a Plane. No snakes. : ]
The dessert was very good! International flight was a very nice thing! After we arrived at Bogota, we went through Immigracion.
The flight from Bogota to Cali was a good flight. I thought I would get to blog a bit and read. But instead I got to talk with Estella. She was traveling with her nephew to Cali and then to smaller city. The funny thing is, I learned all about this without her knowing more than five words in espanol! In fact, from Miami to Bogota and then to Cali, there were not that many people that I encountered that knew english. Estella (means star) and her nephew, Camilo, and I had a good talk and I was so humbled on how little I knew in espanol and how lost I was in the conversation. She was patient with me and they laughed at me a few times. This is her below.
Buenos noches!
Off We Go!
Got up this morning really early! And didn't get a lot of sleep last night. Imagine that!
Got to the airport and was checking in and ran into Ron Keysor! We went through security (fun) and made it to the gate at 5:10 am. As we boarded, we ran into the rest of the Minneapolis crew, Bill and April Hodge. Got on the plane and took this photo right before takeoff.
On our way to Miami for the first leg of our trip!
More later!
Posted with BlogsyMonday, September 16, 2013
Packing!
Hello all,
Thought I would give a heads up!
Today I have been packing and getting ready to leave. It is an interesting balance. I need to get this done so I can spend time with my family before I leave.
They made me a little note envelope to give me 15 days of sunshine in my day.
If you were one of the ones that said you would pray for me on this trip, please remember my family as well. I have never been away from them for this long and having them brought before our LORD as often as possible is a good thing!
So thank you!!
Tomorrow I leave for Minneapolis and VERY early on Wednesday morning, I get on the plane for Miami. Meet up with everybody else and then on to Cali.
Pray for us!
Will write again soon and keep you posted.
Here is a picture of my daughter rolling my clothes for me as I packed. : ]
Thought I would give a heads up!
Today I have been packing and getting ready to leave. It is an interesting balance. I need to get this done so I can spend time with my family before I leave.
They made me a little note envelope to give me 15 days of sunshine in my day.
If you were one of the ones that said you would pray for me on this trip, please remember my family as well. I have never been away from them for this long and having them brought before our LORD as often as possible is a good thing!
So thank you!!
Tomorrow I leave for Minneapolis and VERY early on Wednesday morning, I get on the plane for Miami. Meet up with everybody else and then on to Cali.
Pray for us!
Will write again soon and keep you posted.
Here is a picture of my daughter rolling my clothes for me as I packed. : ]
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
A Week Out
Hello again!
I now have all my shots done. Glad I met my deductible already!! Those are spendy!
In case you were wondering, that means I've had Hepatitis A and B (and a booster), Tetanus and a Typhoid shot(s). Yes, me! The human pin cushion! Got in tacks you would like me to pick up?
In case you have not had these in your life, let me tell you. As you would expect, the Hep A & B are not bad. Barely notice them. The Tetanus burns as bad as it did when I was a kid (almost). The Typhoid was almost warm feeling when I got it. But it also caused me to be the most sore in my arm in even into my back a bit. So there ya go. Just what you wanted to know today. Go forth and spread the word! : ]
Aside from some small things, like deodorant and other weird things like that, I'm ready. Don't get me wrong! I'm not packed. But I think I've got everything I needed to have to be ready. It is so exciting!
It is strange to be away from Alissa and my girls that long. It has raised my level of awareness in every moment with them. Audrey has it marked on her calendar.
Then I think, what is God going to do? How can HE use this?
And I think, I can't wait.
I now have all my shots done. Glad I met my deductible already!! Those are spendy!
In case you were wondering, that means I've had Hepatitis A and B (and a booster), Tetanus and a Typhoid shot(s). Yes, me! The human pin cushion! Got in tacks you would like me to pick up?
In case you have not had these in your life, let me tell you. As you would expect, the Hep A & B are not bad. Barely notice them. The Tetanus burns as bad as it did when I was a kid (almost). The Typhoid was almost warm feeling when I got it. But it also caused me to be the most sore in my arm in even into my back a bit. So there ya go. Just what you wanted to know today. Go forth and spread the word! : ]
Aside from some small things, like deodorant and other weird things like that, I'm ready. Don't get me wrong! I'm not packed. But I think I've got everything I needed to have to be ready. It is so exciting!
It is strange to be away from Alissa and my girls that long. It has raised my level of awareness in every moment with them. Audrey has it marked on her calendar.
Then I think, what is God going to do? How can HE use this?
And I think, I can't wait.
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Cali Update
Hello!
Wanted to give an update on where I'm at in regards to the trip.
The airplane tickets were purchased last month and they got them for about $100 or so less than they thought! Given God the glory!
After the price adjustment, my balance left was $698.60. (Again, praise God for this! God has used you awesome people to get me this close to the goal.) I am so grateful to God for this coming together. I have been praying that it would all come together.
This morning I called Extreme Nazarene and made a payment. I had been given some monies from my congregation and needed to get it in. So! I am happy to let you all know that after that payment, I had only $250.00 left for the trip. And that just blows my mind.
Really. Those of you that know me well, you know that I am not great at accepting gifts. I know what that is and I am working on it, but I am still overwhelmed at gifts and acts of generosity. They are hard to accept. And so, I have had a lot of practice in graciously accepting gifts lately because you have all blessed me, GOD has blessed me through you all. So thank you God! And thank you for listening to God's prompting.
The story doesn't end for today, yet. I have more to tell you!
I got a phone call from a friend this morning. They live on a very tight budget. Very tight. He has a second job to support his family. He was calling to see how I was and ask me a tech question.
We were sharing some details about our lives and I told him how much I am looking forward to this trip. He asked me when we leave and I told him about how I was just about to call make the aforementioned above payment. And let him know how God had blessed me with this trip and I only had $250.00 left. We chatted some more. And then we got off the phone.
About 30 minutes later, I got a call back from my friend. He had been praying and felt led to send me a check for the last $250.00!! I didn't/don't know what to say. God IS so good.
I'm sitting here as I type with tears on my cheeks because I am humbled by God's care and provision.
My trip is fully funded. Praise the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob! The great I AM!
So VERY humbled by God right now. Thank you, God!
Wanted to give an update on where I'm at in regards to the trip.
The airplane tickets were purchased last month and they got them for about $100 or so less than they thought! Given God the glory!
After the price adjustment, my balance left was $698.60. (Again, praise God for this! God has used you awesome people to get me this close to the goal.) I am so grateful to God for this coming together. I have been praying that it would all come together.
This morning I called Extreme Nazarene and made a payment. I had been given some monies from my congregation and needed to get it in. So! I am happy to let you all know that after that payment, I had only $250.00 left for the trip. And that just blows my mind.
Really. Those of you that know me well, you know that I am not great at accepting gifts. I know what that is and I am working on it, but I am still overwhelmed at gifts and acts of generosity. They are hard to accept. And so, I have had a lot of practice in graciously accepting gifts lately because you have all blessed me, GOD has blessed me through you all. So thank you God! And thank you for listening to God's prompting.
The story doesn't end for today, yet. I have more to tell you!
I got a phone call from a friend this morning. They live on a very tight budget. Very tight. He has a second job to support his family. He was calling to see how I was and ask me a tech question.
We were sharing some details about our lives and I told him how much I am looking forward to this trip. He asked me when we leave and I told him about how I was just about to call make the aforementioned above payment. And let him know how God had blessed me with this trip and I only had $250.00 left. We chatted some more. And then we got off the phone.
About 30 minutes later, I got a call back from my friend. He had been praying and felt led to send me a check for the last $250.00!! I didn't/don't know what to say. God IS so good.
I'm sitting here as I type with tears on my cheeks because I am humbled by God's care and provision.
My trip is fully funded. Praise the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob! The great I AM!
So VERY humbled by God right now. Thank you, God!
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