March 2024
Church?
23/03/24 18:29
Is this a church? Almost. They're not all professing Christians, but we are gathering to discuss a community issue: security. I've been concerned for a long time that the church here in Ecuador tends to look inward and not outward. Worship services and bible studies are all an integral and necessary part of the church, but where's the community service? I once suggested to a church elder in Riobamba that instead of meeting one Sunday for worship, why don't they visit the neighborhood and talk with folks about their needs. That's a bit radical for most, but here where we live in El Tingo I'm finding that strategy very effective. We're getting to know our neighbors.
The photo captures the Friday night meeting at our home on how to use the community alarm, installed by the city hall. I felt like it was congregational meeting to discuss our daily concerns. Almost a church.
Illegal immigration
19/03/24 14:53
Three weeks ago, Abel and his family flew to El Salvador to begin a journey to the US. He said he wanted to go legally, but I doubted his plan. Last week he messaged me that they were in South Mexico with a 30 day visa. He added "that things hadn't gone as planned, but that they were okay." My only prayer is for their protection. I don't support illegal immigration. Here in Ecuador, when "they get the itch to go the US," it's hard to convince them to stay. I hope and pray to be able to keep track of them and see how this adventure pans out.
(Read about their last visit to us.)
How many?
10/03/24 09:06
"How many psychologists does it take to change a lightbulb?" Only one, but it has to WANT to be changed.
We joked about this as kids, but now I'm finding its truth. Our friend in the park (an alcoholic) recovered his house (after 7 years). We have offered several times to help him clean it out and fix it up. But every time we "agree" to do it, he doesn't show up. In the end, he doesn't want to do anything. I think he prefers sleeping on the street. We can't help him if he doesn't want help.
Disappointing
03/03/24 10:23
For the second Saturday in a row, we only had two girls (the third in the photo showed up later). As a result, our host Anibal has decided to take a break until we can reorganize the classes. Disappointing, but we have sown the Word in these children for a whole year. My theory is that someone in town spread some rumor about us and the parents are finding excuses not to send their kids. We'll continue to pray and wait for God's direction.