Click here for photos! These are pics I've taken. More to come from Jennifer.
Kathy
Friday, July 31, 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
VBS Update from Richard
WOW!
What a couple of days in VBS with the youth group. We have had about 50 different teenagers and it has been phenomenal. The first question out of our mouth was "We are going to talk about Jesus - Do you guys know Jesus?" We had four young ladies, all around 16 to 17 say, "We know who he is, but he is not our saviour."
We were taken a little off guard, but made changes on the fly and all of a sudden this group of Methodists got a little bit more evangelical.
Praise God that after a day and a half with them, we had six teenagers make a profession of faith. We also had one mother and daughter ask us to lay hands on them and to pray for them because the daughter was in an abusive relationship with a boyfriend. She was scared and wanted God's protection.
What a joy to see God move. To see God change lives. To see God offer Hope. To cross so many cultural and language barriers and to have such fun serving God. What a joy!
I will never have a trip like this again, or work with a group in a setting like this, that I do not share the plan of salvation, and ask if anyone is being led to make a decision.
Praise God! What a couple of days.
What a couple of days in VBS with the youth group. We have had about 50 different teenagers and it has been phenomenal. The first question out of our mouth was "We are going to talk about Jesus - Do you guys know Jesus?" We had four young ladies, all around 16 to 17 say, "We know who he is, but he is not our saviour."
We were taken a little off guard, but made changes on the fly and all of a sudden this group of Methodists got a little bit more evangelical.
Praise God that after a day and a half with them, we had six teenagers make a profession of faith. We also had one mother and daughter ask us to lay hands on them and to pray for them because the daughter was in an abusive relationship with a boyfriend. She was scared and wanted God's protection.
What a joy to see God move. To see God change lives. To see God offer Hope. To cross so many cultural and language barriers and to have such fun serving God. What a joy!
I will never have a trip like this again, or work with a group in a setting like this, that I do not share the plan of salvation, and ask if anyone is being led to make a decision.
Praise God! What a couple of days.
Thursday morning
7:20 am
Good morning, friends! I apologize that I haven't updated in a while, we are moving non-stop. After work, it's hard to resist the chance to get out and see the city! Quito has a beauty about it and I can't wait to assemble photos to share with you.
Yesterday was an amazing day for our team. We had some issues we needed to work through and with prayer and communication were able to do so. It was a turning point for our team. There is a renewed solidarity and renewed openness to God's presence amongst us. Even on a mission trip, Satan and old human nature can get in the way!
After typing that paragraph, I can't say it's coincidence what happened during bible school. Mike and Richard were working with the 12-18 year olds when some announced that they didn't know Jesus. Of course, that completely changed the tenor of their lesson! Mike immediately brought in the help of the pastor and other team members. Richard snuck out and gathered the construction team together for a quick prayer.
I was on the construction team yesterday and can't tell you how cool it was to put down a bucket of wet concrete and link arms with my dusty friends for prayer. We prayed for the kids inside and the adults ministering to them. You could feel the presence of God with us. It was rejuvenating and touching all at the same time.
The children who didn't know Jesus left knowing much more about Him and were very receptive to Him. Out of this wonderful development came even more good news. Three other children decided to take the next step and profess their faith in Christ! I know! It's awesome! The same group returns this morning and I know more wonderful things will happen!
God really moved some mountains yesterday. There were mountains within our group that could have created mountains between us and the kids. Both barriers were removed yesterday. How fun is that?
Today, more concrete work outside and more sweet kids inside. Please continue your prayers for us today. We love and miss everyone!
Kathy Harrison
Good morning, friends! I apologize that I haven't updated in a while, we are moving non-stop. After work, it's hard to resist the chance to get out and see the city! Quito has a beauty about it and I can't wait to assemble photos to share with you.
Yesterday was an amazing day for our team. We had some issues we needed to work through and with prayer and communication were able to do so. It was a turning point for our team. There is a renewed solidarity and renewed openness to God's presence amongst us. Even on a mission trip, Satan and old human nature can get in the way!
After typing that paragraph, I can't say it's coincidence what happened during bible school. Mike and Richard were working with the 12-18 year olds when some announced that they didn't know Jesus. Of course, that completely changed the tenor of their lesson! Mike immediately brought in the help of the pastor and other team members. Richard snuck out and gathered the construction team together for a quick prayer.
I was on the construction team yesterday and can't tell you how cool it was to put down a bucket of wet concrete and link arms with my dusty friends for prayer. We prayed for the kids inside and the adults ministering to them. You could feel the presence of God with us. It was rejuvenating and touching all at the same time.
The children who didn't know Jesus left knowing much more about Him and were very receptive to Him. Out of this wonderful development came even more good news. Three other children decided to take the next step and profess their faith in Christ! I know! It's awesome! The same group returns this morning and I know more wonderful things will happen!
God really moved some mountains yesterday. There were mountains within our group that could have created mountains between us and the kids. Both barriers were removed yesterday. How fun is that?
Today, more concrete work outside and more sweet kids inside. Please continue your prayers for us today. We love and miss everyone!
Kathy Harrison
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Tuesday morning
5:31am
Looking forward to another day at Villaflora! We'll have the same group of kids this morning as we did yesterday morning. I can't wait to see them! And I can't wait to see their reactions to the tie-dye shirts they made yesterday!
Our construction crew today will be mixing concrete and filling in some massive holes. Please keep them in your prayers for endurance....or the wisdom to come inside when they need a break! It's a good refresher for them to come in and sit with the kids for a while - both parties thoroughly enjoy it.
The weather has been perfect. They say it's been unusually hot here the past week or so...but it's perfect compared to the high temps & humidity you guys back home are probably experiencing! Low humidity here, not too hot, not too cool. The shade is absolutely perfect. We are closer to the sun here than home but don't worry - precautions are being taken!
Pray for good health for everyone. Nothing serious but we've had a few members have a rough morning here and there. Dana, bless her heart, had a bad day yesterday and remained at the hotel. She rejoined us late in the afternoon for a walk to the market, dinner, and the after-dinner fellowship & devotional. She's back to her hilarious self!
Jennifer has been taking pictures, of course, but we've not been able to sit down and transfer them over for posting. I've posted a few of my own pictures but we'll be adding much, much more very soon (hopefully today). Stay tuned!
Thanks for your support from home! We love knowing we can communicate back to you daily via the internet. Keep your comments coming!
God bless,
Kathy
Looking forward to another day at Villaflora! We'll have the same group of kids this morning as we did yesterday morning. I can't wait to see them! And I can't wait to see their reactions to the tie-dye shirts they made yesterday!
Our construction crew today will be mixing concrete and filling in some massive holes. Please keep them in your prayers for endurance....or the wisdom to come inside when they need a break! It's a good refresher for them to come in and sit with the kids for a while - both parties thoroughly enjoy it.
The weather has been perfect. They say it's been unusually hot here the past week or so...but it's perfect compared to the high temps & humidity you guys back home are probably experiencing! Low humidity here, not too hot, not too cool. The shade is absolutely perfect. We are closer to the sun here than home but don't worry - precautions are being taken!
Pray for good health for everyone. Nothing serious but we've had a few members have a rough morning here and there. Dana, bless her heart, had a bad day yesterday and remained at the hotel. She rejoined us late in the afternoon for a walk to the market, dinner, and the after-dinner fellowship & devotional. She's back to her hilarious self!
Jennifer has been taking pictures, of course, but we've not been able to sit down and transfer them over for posting. I've posted a few of my own pictures but we'll be adding much, much more very soon (hopefully today). Stay tuned!
Thanks for your support from home! We love knowing we can communicate back to you daily via the internet. Keep your comments coming!
God bless,
Kathy
Monday, July 27, 2009
Photos from the equator
Click here to see pictures from our trip to the equator yesterday. More coming soon from construction work & bible school!
KH
KH
Monday
8:30pm
Today was a fabulous day! It was our first day at the Villaflora center, working construction and bible school. We worked with two wonderful groups of children; one in the morning, the 2nd in the early afternoon. We took their photos ("smile big!"), painted t-shirts & bags, tie-dyed shirts and made cruz necklaces.
All of this fun, of course, was accented with English & Spanish bible stories. The performance of the day came from the Team HOPE Troupe - consisting of Greg, Ricky & Mike re-enacting the David & Goliath story multiple times to allow for a few different Davids to slay the giant (Mike)!
The guys were right outside the door, coming in to help us out with the kids when they needed to take a short break. The kids were so fun. They just smiled and hugged us and thoroughly appreciated everything we had for them to do. Katie, Alex & Stacey had them singing Jesus Loves Me & other songs, and playing London Bridge.
The guys made great progress outside, getting more done today than expected!
Afterwards, a few of us went to the market and the Calhouns & Richard spend some time in "Old Town." Now we are congregated on our floor, telling tales & massaging sore shoulders. Soon we'll have the evening devotional and turn in. Tomorrow is another big day!
More pictures soon.
Kathy Harrison
Today was a fabulous day! It was our first day at the Villaflora center, working construction and bible school. We worked with two wonderful groups of children; one in the morning, the 2nd in the early afternoon. We took their photos ("smile big!"), painted t-shirts & bags, tie-dyed shirts and made cruz necklaces.
All of this fun, of course, was accented with English & Spanish bible stories. The performance of the day came from the Team HOPE Troupe - consisting of Greg, Ricky & Mike re-enacting the David & Goliath story multiple times to allow for a few different Davids to slay the giant (Mike)!
The guys were right outside the door, coming in to help us out with the kids when they needed to take a short break. The kids were so fun. They just smiled and hugged us and thoroughly appreciated everything we had for them to do. Katie, Alex & Stacey had them singing Jesus Loves Me & other songs, and playing London Bridge.
The guys made great progress outside, getting more done today than expected!
Afterwards, a few of us went to the market and the Calhouns & Richard spend some time in "Old Town." Now we are congregated on our floor, telling tales & massaging sore shoulders. Soon we'll have the evening devotional and turn in. Tomorrow is another big day!
More pictures soon.
Kathy Harrison
Sunday, July 26, 2009
message from Bethany
Thank you for helping us get to Ecuador and make a difference. Please continue to pray for patience and plenty of energy to get through the week. Our team is starting the week off very tired, but in good humor. This is a great team, and I am blessed to be here. Thank you to all.
A special hello to my family. I love yall and miss yall lots.
A special hello to my family. I love yall and miss yall lots.
Message from Richard
Incredible day getting to meet some of the people in Ecuador and visit to the Middle of the Earth - the equator.
Beautiful country and great weather.
Also great worship service this afternoon.
Tomorrow, we begin construction. Tying rebar to build columns that need to stand up to earthquakes. No Problems.
Can't wait.
Beautiful country and great weather.
Also great worship service this afternoon.
Tomorrow, we begin construction. Tying rebar to build columns that need to stand up to earthquakes. No Problems.
Can't wait.
Message from Alex!!
Hey everybody... today was an awsome day. we to the equator and stood on either side of the earth!! it was so cool and we did so many experiments to prove that it was the middle of the earth.. and later we went to church at momma yoli's... and i found the cutiest babies and when i had to leave they didnt know who the baby belonged to and she started crying it was so sad.. and all the little kids followed us to the bus... and some of them cried when the other team left.. then we came back and ate supper.. and tomorrow we start bible school!!!!!!!!:)
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Settled In
What a great day it's been! We began at 2am, traveled to New Orleans, then to Miami for a 7ish-hour layover, then on to Quito. Other than a gate change, we had no complications. We're very thankful for an "uneventful" day of travel. Everyone has been in high spirits and truly enjoying each other's company. Now everyone is making their way to their rooms for some much-deserved rest! Tomorrow will bring us to the "Middle of the World" monument and museum as well as to church services in a church built by SIFAT.
Tonight in our team meeting Richard Baker asked us what we are thankful for. The immediate response was twofold: thankfulness for this team God has assembled and the spirit we feel in our midst; also praise was lifted to God for leading Mr. Alton years ago into his involvement with SIFAT. Mr. Alton's history with this organization and the relationships he's cultivated within our church has laid the essential groundwork for this and other mission trips. And as always, it's a blessing to see the young people we have here with us. This is Stacey's first mission trip and we can see her excitement. Katie & Alex are not newcomers and how wonderful to see their warmth touch other travelers even before we get to our destination.
**The team sends their love to friends & family! And a SPECIAL thank you goes out to Mr. John Shakleford for driving us to the New Orleans airport in the middle of the night! And thank you to Mr. Charlie Campbell for meeting us in the church parking lot just to wish us well as we drove off. Thank you for your special support, Mr. Charlie & Mr. John. We all appreciate both of you!
And thanks to our home team for your continued prayers and support. We appreciate and thank God for each and every one of you.
Click here to see photos from today.
-Kathy Harrison
Tonight in our team meeting Richard Baker asked us what we are thankful for. The immediate response was twofold: thankfulness for this team God has assembled and the spirit we feel in our midst; also praise was lifted to God for leading Mr. Alton years ago into his involvement with SIFAT. Mr. Alton's history with this organization and the relationships he's cultivated within our church has laid the essential groundwork for this and other mission trips. And as always, it's a blessing to see the young people we have here with us. This is Stacey's first mission trip and we can see her excitement. Katie & Alex are not newcomers and how wonderful to see their warmth touch other travelers even before we get to our destination.
**The team sends their love to friends & family! And a SPECIAL thank you goes out to Mr. John Shakleford for driving us to the New Orleans airport in the middle of the night! And thank you to Mr. Charlie Campbell for meeting us in the church parking lot just to wish us well as we drove off. Thank you for your special support, Mr. Charlie & Mr. John. We all appreciate both of you!
And thanks to our home team for your continued prayers and support. We appreciate and thank God for each and every one of you.
Click here to see photos from today.
-Kathy Harrison
Arrived in Quito
We have safely arrived in Quito and are congregated for dinner. Everything went smoothly entering the country and transporting team & luggage to the hotel. Thanks for your thoughts and prayers during our travel.
More info coming later. Suppertime!
More info coming later. Suppertime!
leaving Miami
Boarded & about to shut the door! We will arrive in Quito roughly 6PM. Remember, its the same time zone!
Kathy
Kathy
waiting....
245PM
The team is patiently waiting for our flight to Quito to board. We have card players, movie watchers, book readers, quiet gazers, and Katie has befriended a lady & daughter from Quito. It's been raining steadily since we arrived in Miami but it hasn't created any delays. Next stop, Ecuador! Stay tuned.
The team is patiently waiting for our flight to Quito to board. We have card players, movie watchers, book readers, quiet gazers, and Katie has befriended a lady & daughter from Quito. It's been raining steadily since we arrived in Miami but it hasn't created any delays. Next stop, Ecuador! Stay tuned.
posting comments
In order to post a comment to one of our blog entries, you may have to create a Google account. It is free to do this. Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause!
Kathy
Kathy
Miami Airport
To see photos of the team hanging out in the Miami airport, click on the link below:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=127024&id=109702356893&saved#/album.php?aid=127024&id=109702356893&ref=mf
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=127024&id=109702356893&saved#/album.php?aid=127024&id=109702356893&ref=mf
Miami
10am
First leg of the trip completed! We are in Miami for a 6 hour layover. Everyone has grabbed a bite to eat (pizza at 9am anyone?) and some of us are preparing to catch some ZZZs. Bethany has already started, Greg is reminiscing with photos about the last trip to Ecuador, and Jennifer is breaking out the camera. Dana is taking a brief medical history of everyone. Richard is talking about native dishes we can try in Quito. Why is he asking about cholera?
Everyone is in good spirits and excited about the week ahead.
Stay tuned!
P.S. The time stamp on these posts are not accurate. I'll try to remember to manually enter the times.
Kathy Harrison
First leg of the trip completed! We are in Miami for a 6 hour layover. Everyone has grabbed a bite to eat (pizza at 9am anyone?) and some of us are preparing to catch some ZZZs. Bethany has already started, Greg is reminiscing with photos about the last trip to Ecuador, and Jennifer is breaking out the camera. Dana is taking a brief medical history of everyone. Richard is talking about native dishes we can try in Quito. Why is he asking about cholera?
Everyone is in good spirits and excited about the week ahead.
Stay tuned!
P.S. The time stamp on these posts are not accurate. I'll try to remember to manually enter the times.
Kathy Harrison
New Orleans Airport
We are all checked in and through security! We are excited and ready to go! Ricky and Stacy have joined us so our team is complete. Flight leaves at 6. See you in Miami!
Friday, July 24, 2009
40 Days of Prayer - Day 40 (0 Days Left!!)
Friday, July 24, 2009
Submitted by Richard Baker
Thursday, July 23, 2009
40 Days of Prayer - Day 39 (1 Day Left!)
Thursday, July 23, 2009
The next 60 hours or so will be trying. Finishing up last minute details at work and home before we leave are always stressful. Normally, everything that can go wrong, will go wrong – about 4 o’clock tomorrow afternoon. We will have problems at the airport – something – we can count on it. We will have a long layover – bad food – rude, nosy, or loud seat companions on the flights. But if we are ready, God can use us through all of those. If we handle the adversities that will arise with a Christlike spirit, then He will be glorified!
Submitted by Richard Baker
40 Days of Prayer - Day 38
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Today let’s pray for JOY!
Seeing this rain should make all of us here happy. Even though the day is gray, I can just almost hear the grass and plants, and my garden, soaking up God’s nourishment to them. (Isn’t it amazing how much better God can water the garden than we can?) But we should be celebrating.
We should also be celebrating on this trip. The GOD we serve is in control. He is and owns everything! No matter what problems we face here at home – work, finances, relationships, family, sin – God will prevail. I like to think that you are happy because of something, but Joyous in spite of everything. That is what we need to portray as we travel; and maybe even exhibit more here at home. Our salvation and the grace that comes from God is beyond human comprehension. It does cover every aspect of our lives. Let’s remember that on this trip. No one will be attracted to Christ if we, as his followers, don’t show something different than everyone else. Smile. Don’t get hung up on little things. Smile. Love each other. Smile. Laugh out loud. And remember, even with all of our problems, most of the people we will encounter on this trip would give anything they have to just have the chance to live where we are.
See you guys tonight at church.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Today let’s pray for JOY!
Seeing this rain should make all of us here happy. Even though the day is gray, I can just almost hear the grass and plants, and my garden, soaking up God’s nourishment to them. (Isn’t it amazing how much better God can water the garden than we can?) But we should be celebrating.
We should also be celebrating on this trip. The GOD we serve is in control. He is and owns everything! No matter what problems we face here at home – work, finances, relationships, family, sin – God will prevail. I like to think that you are happy because of something, but Joyous in spite of everything. That is what we need to portray as we travel; and maybe even exhibit more here at home. Our salvation and the grace that comes from God is beyond human comprehension. It does cover every aspect of our lives. Let’s remember that on this trip. No one will be attracted to Christ if we, as his followers, don’t show something different than everyone else. Smile. Don’t get hung up on little things. Smile. Love each other. Smile. Laugh out loud. And remember, even with all of our problems, most of the people we will encounter on this trip would give anything they have to just have the chance to live where we are.
See you guys tonight at church.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
40 Days of Prayer - Day 37 (3 Days left)
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
God, please give us a servant spirit as we travel.
Today, let’s really focus on the fact that we are going to serve. We are not vacationing. We are not in charge. We are not in control. We are submitting ourselves to serve God in his time, where he wants, and how he wants. Remember that it may be nothing like what we have planned. We may all haul blocks. We may all hold hands. We may all do nothing but pray. But let’s remember that we are His servants. Period. Make that be at the forefront of our minds as we travel. Let’s put our own agenda, our individualism, our sense of self importance and self righteousness aside and just SERVE CHRIST.
God, please give us a servant spirit as we travel.
Today, let’s really focus on the fact that we are going to serve. We are not vacationing. We are not in charge. We are not in control. We are submitting ourselves to serve God in his time, where he wants, and how he wants. Remember that it may be nothing like what we have planned. We may all haul blocks. We may all hold hands. We may all do nothing but pray. But let’s remember that we are His servants. Period. Make that be at the forefront of our minds as we travel. Let’s put our own agenda, our individualism, our sense of self importance and self righteousness aside and just SERVE CHRIST.
Basic Facts about Ecuador
- Name: Republic of Ecuador
- Independence: May 24, 1822 (from Spain)
- Type of government: Democratic Republic
- Area: 256,370 sq. kilometers
- Population: 13,927,650
- Capital City: Quito (population 1.2 million)
- Principal cities: Guayaquil, Quito, and Cuenca
- Official language: Spanish
- Currency: U.S. Dollar
Monday, July 20, 2009
Today's Weather in Quito, Ecuador vs. Brookhaven, MS
Quito:
68°F/50°F
50% chance of T'storms
Brookhaven:
88°F/65°F
Ecuador's flag looks similar to those of Colombia and Venezuela, but don't say that to an Ecuadorian, as the bandera tricolor (tricolor flag) is a powerful patriotic symbol with Ecuadorian people.
From a very young age, starting in preschool, children have a day dedicated to the flag called "Jura a la Bandera" or loosely translated Pledge to the Flag, and on historical holidays that demark important days in Ecuador's history, the Ecuadorian flag is proudly displayed in the majority of homes throughout the country.
The Ecuadorian flag has a high place in the hearts and the psyches of the Ecuadorian people.
Source: www.ecuadorexplorer.com
Submitted by Kathy Harrison
40 Days of Prayer - Day 36 (4 days Left)
Monday, July 20, 2009
Today, Let’s pray for god to grant us humility.
Lord, please prepare us to serve with a humble spirit. Allow us to be kind, thankful, unassuming, and Christlike in our interaction with each other and with the people we encounter on this trip.
Remind us that we don’t have all the answers and that we are nothing without you. But that through you, all things are possible. It is you, not us.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Today, Let’s pray for god to grant us humility.
Lord, please prepare us to serve with a humble spirit. Allow us to be kind, thankful, unassuming, and Christlike in our interaction with each other and with the people we encounter on this trip.
Remind us that we don’t have all the answers and that we are nothing without you. But that through you, all things are possible. It is you, not us.
Submitted by Richard Baker
40 Days of Prayer - Day 35 (5 Days left)
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Over the last 34 days, we have prayed for all of our team members, the people we are going to see and the trip in general. All of those are obviously a large part of what we are doing, but as much as anything is the transformation that occurs within those of us on the team. God can use this as a life changing act of obedience on our part – if we let him. So, today we start praying for our own relationship with Christ.
Lord, please forgive me for sins in my life. Please cleanse my heart and make me a vessel for you. I pray for the renewed joy of my salvation. I ask that you make that moment of my conversion anew again in my life. Remind me of the treasures you have in store for me. Please give me the strength to honor you on this trip, and father, please do not let me cause another to stumble because of sin in my life.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Over the last 34 days, we have prayed for all of our team members, the people we are going to see and the trip in general. All of those are obviously a large part of what we are doing, but as much as anything is the transformation that occurs within those of us on the team. God can use this as a life changing act of obedience on our part – if we let him. So, today we start praying for our own relationship with Christ.
Lord, please forgive me for sins in my life. Please cleanse my heart and make me a vessel for you. I pray for the renewed joy of my salvation. I ask that you make that moment of my conversion anew again in my life. Remind me of the treasures you have in store for me. Please give me the strength to honor you on this trip, and father, please do not let me cause another to stumble because of sin in my life.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Saturday, July 18, 2009
40 Days of Prayer - Day 34
Hola ninos and ninas,
Sabado, Julio dieciocho, dosmilnuevo
El Dia treintacuatro – seis dias izquierda
Porque de tal manera amo Dios al mundo, que dio a su Hijo unigento, para que todo aquel que cree en El, no se pierda, mas tenga vida eterna.
Today, let’s pray for the language barriers to be broken. Pray for God’s love to cross all obstacles and use us to communicate his message.
I have a bonus for the first one to tell me what the above sentence is.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Sabado, Julio dieciocho, dosmilnuevo
El Dia treintacuatro – seis dias izquierda
Porque de tal manera amo Dios al mundo, que dio a su Hijo unigento, para que todo aquel que cree en El, no se pierda, mas tenga vida eterna.
Today, let’s pray for the language barriers to be broken. Pray for God’s love to cross all obstacles and use us to communicate his message.
I have a bonus for the first one to tell me what the above sentence is.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Friday, July 17, 2009
40 Days of Prayer - Day 33 (7 Left!)
Friday, July 17, 2009
Yep, we travel one week from tonight. Can’t you feel God moving?
Today let’s be in prayer for all of those people we will come in contact with as they serve us on this trip. The airport personnel, the staff at the hotel, the restaurants we will visit, the shop keepers, and the clerks wherever we are. Pray that we will be respectful, that we may share Christ with them through our attitudes, our smiles, our courtesy, and our patience. Pray that we will be ambassadors for Christ as we travel. Americans have a bad reputation in so many parts of the world for their arrogance and pride – and yes this even includes Christian groups traveling. Pray that we will respect those we encounter and learn from them. Pray that we will be on the lookout for ways to minister to those serving us.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Yep, we travel one week from tonight. Can’t you feel God moving?
Today let’s be in prayer for all of those people we will come in contact with as they serve us on this trip. The airport personnel, the staff at the hotel, the restaurants we will visit, the shop keepers, and the clerks wherever we are. Pray that we will be respectful, that we may share Christ with them through our attitudes, our smiles, our courtesy, and our patience. Pray that we will be ambassadors for Christ as we travel. Americans have a bad reputation in so many parts of the world for their arrogance and pride – and yes this even includes Christian groups traveling. Pray that we will respect those we encounter and learn from them. Pray that we will be on the lookout for ways to minister to those serving us.
Submitted by Richard Baker
40 Days of Prayer - Day 32
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Yes – only 8 days left! Wow!
What a blessing it was last night to worship with the Hope for Africa Children’s Choir. What joy and energy! (What an understatement!) It was great to see them dancing and singing and great to see some of our own dancing in the aisles at church. It also was great for me to sit next to Pastor Richard – and hear him talk about his young son back home. Also I am so proud that my son was as comfortable with him as someone he had known before last night. Isn’t it awesome to see God just confirm that we are brothers and sisters! What a joy it is to serve a God that is bigger than all of us and to serve a God that controls the whole world! Really makes me think about Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Congo, and Sudan –(5 countries in United Methodist Conference that has the orphanage for these children.) Maybe one day we will have a mission trip to serve with them and to worship together in their church. Sort of gets you fired up about sharing Christ all over the world.
Speaking of that – Today, let’s pray for the medical work that we will be a part of in Ecuador.
Pray for all of the workers coming from the states. Most of the medical team will be coming from Tennessee, but Dana and Lisa will I am sure be a part of it. And if this trip is true to form of every other one I have known about, some of us with no medical background will be right in the middle of that ministry. Pray for God to heal those that are sick. Pray for God to bless them with a new life. Pray for God to allow medicines and the staff to work for him. Pray for traveling mercies with medical equipment and pharmaceuticals. Also pray for the health of the team members. We have such a limited time to spend in country and let’s ask God to allow us to spend it all serving and worshipping together.
Don’t forget the packing party tonight.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Yes – only 8 days left! Wow!
What a blessing it was last night to worship with the Hope for Africa Children’s Choir. What joy and energy! (What an understatement!) It was great to see them dancing and singing and great to see some of our own dancing in the aisles at church. It also was great for me to sit next to Pastor Richard – and hear him talk about his young son back home. Also I am so proud that my son was as comfortable with him as someone he had known before last night. Isn’t it awesome to see God just confirm that we are brothers and sisters! What a joy it is to serve a God that is bigger than all of us and to serve a God that controls the whole world! Really makes me think about Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Congo, and Sudan –(5 countries in United Methodist Conference that has the orphanage for these children.) Maybe one day we will have a mission trip to serve with them and to worship together in their church. Sort of gets you fired up about sharing Christ all over the world.
Speaking of that – Today, let’s pray for the medical work that we will be a part of in Ecuador.
Pray for all of the workers coming from the states. Most of the medical team will be coming from Tennessee, but Dana and Lisa will I am sure be a part of it. And if this trip is true to form of every other one I have known about, some of us with no medical background will be right in the middle of that ministry. Pray for God to heal those that are sick. Pray for God to bless them with a new life. Pray for God to allow medicines and the staff to work for him. Pray for traveling mercies with medical equipment and pharmaceuticals. Also pray for the health of the team members. We have such a limited time to spend in country and let’s ask God to allow us to spend it all serving and worshipping together.
Don’t forget the packing party tonight.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
40 Days of Prayer - Day 31 (9 to go)
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Today, let’s pray for the children and youth ministry on this trip.
Lift up our workers. Lift up the local workers. Lift up the small children. Lift up the youth. Pray for God’s message to cross all of the barriers and reach those it is intended for. Pray that throughout this entire trip, that we will be mindful of our influence on the children and youth of this culture. Help us to represent Christ in a manner pleasing to him. Help us to also represent our country also. Let us be the loving, kind, helpful, and respectful Christians who are full of God’s love and spirit.
Let there be lots of laughter and lots of hugs! God can use those to do glorious things.
Speaking of children – don’t forget the children’s choir from Africa tonight at church. Should be great.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Today, let’s pray for the children and youth ministry on this trip.
Lift up our workers. Lift up the local workers. Lift up the small children. Lift up the youth. Pray for God’s message to cross all of the barriers and reach those it is intended for. Pray that throughout this entire trip, that we will be mindful of our influence on the children and youth of this culture. Help us to represent Christ in a manner pleasing to him. Help us to also represent our country also. Let us be the loving, kind, helpful, and respectful Christians who are full of God’s love and spirit.
Let there be lots of laughter and lots of hugs! God can use those to do glorious things.
Speaking of children – don’t forget the children’s choir from Africa tonight at church. Should be great.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
40 Days of Prayer - Day 30 (10 to go!)
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Today, let’s begin to pray for things in country. Today let’s pray for the construction work. Let’s lift up those locals who we will be working with. Last year, God had a plan for Oscar that we, nor the Pastor knew about. In fact, we had a number of hurdles to overcome to include him, but God used him. God used us to hopefully reach him. Pray for this year’s Oscar. Pray for us to have our eyes and our hearts opened to God’s leading and to be ready when the opportunity arises.
Pray for the actual work. Pray for the safety of the workers. Pray that the supplies and tools will be available and that we will be able to be good stewards of the money used in the construction job. Pray for the vendors that we will buy materials from. Let God speak to them through a simple business transaction. Pray that we will accomplish the amount of work that God has in store for us. Pray for his will to be done.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Today, let’s begin to pray for things in country. Today let’s pray for the construction work. Let’s lift up those locals who we will be working with. Last year, God had a plan for Oscar that we, nor the Pastor knew about. In fact, we had a number of hurdles to overcome to include him, but God used him. God used us to hopefully reach him. Pray for this year’s Oscar. Pray for us to have our eyes and our hearts opened to God’s leading and to be ready when the opportunity arises.
Pray for the actual work. Pray for the safety of the workers. Pray that the supplies and tools will be available and that we will be able to be good stewards of the money used in the construction job. Pray for the vendors that we will buy materials from. Let God speak to them through a simple business transaction. Pray that we will accomplish the amount of work that God has in store for us. Pray for his will to be done.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Where in the world is Quito, Ecuador?
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You can "grab and drag" the map with your mouse to get a good idea of where Ecuador is in relation to Mississippi. Or click "View Larger Map." You can also navigate using the controls in the top left corner of the map.
Monday, July 13, 2009
40 Days of Prayer - Day 29 (11 to go)
Monday, July 13, 2009
Today, let’s continue to pray for those who had originally planned to travel with us, but who are not able to. Today, let’s pray for Glenn Howell and his wife Lou. Glenn is Greg’s father and a true example of living his faith, and going where God calls him to go. From prisons to churches here in the US to all over the world. Glen has just returned from Honduras – is going to Alaska and is going to Nicaragua in the next couple of months. It is obvious the passion with which he serves God and the passion to share the gospel he instilled into his children and now, even grandchildren.
Let’s lift him up and pray that one day, we will all be able to travel together
Submitted by Richard Baker
Today, let’s continue to pray for those who had originally planned to travel with us, but who are not able to. Today, let’s pray for Glenn Howell and his wife Lou. Glenn is Greg’s father and a true example of living his faith, and going where God calls him to go. From prisons to churches here in the US to all over the world. Glen has just returned from Honduras – is going to Alaska and is going to Nicaragua in the next couple of months. It is obvious the passion with which he serves God and the passion to share the gospel he instilled into his children and now, even grandchildren.
Let’s lift him up and pray that one day, we will all be able to travel together
Submitted by Richard Baker
Sunday, July 12, 2009
40 Days of Prayer - Day 28 (12 to go)
Sunday, July 12, 2009
What a blessing it was last night to visit together as a group with our families and friends. Thanks everyone for bringing everything and I hope no one left hungry.
Today, let’s lift up Charlie and Linda Campbell. Charlie and Linda are a vital part of our church’s mission ministries. He is our district UMCOR coordinator and has traveled extensively in that role and on other mission trips. In Nicaragua last year he was our construction coordinator and was even pretty easy to room with - as long as we got to sleep before he did – HA! Even though Charlie, nor Linda, are going to travel with us this year, we know they are praying and lifting this effort up.
It is amazing how close I personally feel to Charlie even though we don’t spend much time together now. Our lives don’t cross much outside of church services, but after serving together on a trip like this, you are just different. You learn things about each other. You see good and the not so good in each of us. The devil tests us. He tries to break us apart over petty things. But God is in control. The bond we have as brothers and sisters in Christ is more than sufficient to keep us together. Our team will be victorious in the end.
Things like last night help God build a team out of us. Continue to pray for all of us and I promise, we will all make friends on this trip that will change our lives forever.
See you at church.
Submitted by Richard Baker
What a blessing it was last night to visit together as a group with our families and friends. Thanks everyone for bringing everything and I hope no one left hungry.
Today, let’s lift up Charlie and Linda Campbell. Charlie and Linda are a vital part of our church’s mission ministries. He is our district UMCOR coordinator and has traveled extensively in that role and on other mission trips. In Nicaragua last year he was our construction coordinator and was even pretty easy to room with - as long as we got to sleep before he did – HA! Even though Charlie, nor Linda, are going to travel with us this year, we know they are praying and lifting this effort up.
It is amazing how close I personally feel to Charlie even though we don’t spend much time together now. Our lives don’t cross much outside of church services, but after serving together on a trip like this, you are just different. You learn things about each other. You see good and the not so good in each of us. The devil tests us. He tries to break us apart over petty things. But God is in control. The bond we have as brothers and sisters in Christ is more than sufficient to keep us together. Our team will be victorious in the end.
Things like last night help God build a team out of us. Continue to pray for all of us and I promise, we will all make friends on this trip that will change our lives forever.
See you at church.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Saturday, July 11, 2009
40 Days of Prayer - Day 27 (13 to go)
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Two weeks from now, we will be almost to Miami. It is amazing how close it is. I found a number of posts, videos, etc. about where we are going by doing a google search of sifat in Ecuador. Had a youtube video of mama yolis and a lot of stuff. Pretty good to get us in the right frame of mind. Check it out.
Anyway, today, let’s pray for The Barry Family.
Sherry has been a big part of planning for this trip as well as working at events. Unfortunately, (at least we feel unfortunate) she is not going to be able to travel with us. But again, we have to trust that God has a reason for her staying in the States. Lets pray for that reason to be clear to her.
Let’s also pray for Lee, Cameron, and Alison. One day I fell that all of them will be on a traveling team with us.
Lastly, I hope to see everyone tonight at the cookout. Please come if you can. 6 at my house at Enterprise. If you need directions or get lost, call. My home is 601-835-2742. My cell is 601-320-0591. Very informal. Bring chairs if you have them. I have about 10-15 but chairs would be great.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Two weeks from now, we will be almost to Miami. It is amazing how close it is. I found a number of posts, videos, etc. about where we are going by doing a google search of sifat in Ecuador. Had a youtube video of mama yolis and a lot of stuff. Pretty good to get us in the right frame of mind. Check it out.
Anyway, today, let’s pray for The Barry Family.
Sherry has been a big part of planning for this trip as well as working at events. Unfortunately, (at least we feel unfortunate) she is not going to be able to travel with us. But again, we have to trust that God has a reason for her staying in the States. Lets pray for that reason to be clear to her.
Let’s also pray for Lee, Cameron, and Alison. One day I fell that all of them will be on a traveling team with us.
Lastly, I hope to see everyone tonight at the cookout. Please come if you can. 6 at my house at Enterprise. If you need directions or get lost, call. My home is 601-835-2742. My cell is 601-320-0591. Very informal. Bring chairs if you have them. I have about 10-15 but chairs would be great.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Friday, July 10, 2009
40 Days of Prayer - Day 26 (14 to go)
Friday, July 10, 2009
Today let’s pray for the Underwood family.
Don and Sarah play such a large role in the life of our church family. Unfortunately, Don and Stone’s being a part of the traveling team this year did not work out either. They would have been an incredible addition to our team but as we have been saying, God can and will use them right here at home - if they let him. Pray for God to continue to bless their family. Pray that God will continue to put missions opportunities in front of them and pray that he will keep them motivated to be a part of our mission efforts, even if they never feel led to be a part of the traveling team.
Remember the cookout tomorrow at my house at 6. See yall then.
Richard Baker
Today let’s pray for the Underwood family.
Don and Sarah play such a large role in the life of our church family. Unfortunately, Don and Stone’s being a part of the traveling team this year did not work out either. They would have been an incredible addition to our team but as we have been saying, God can and will use them right here at home - if they let him. Pray for God to continue to bless their family. Pray that God will continue to put missions opportunities in front of them and pray that he will keep them motivated to be a part of our mission efforts, even if they never feel led to be a part of the traveling team.
Remember the cookout tomorrow at my house at 6. See yall then.
Richard Baker
Thursday, July 9, 2009
40 Days of Prayer - Day 25 (15 to go!)
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Buenos Dias,
Como Esta? What a blessing it was last night to visit with those in the Spanish class with Mrs. Spearman – wow, what a joy she is. 84 and still going strong and really enjoying helping us. Who knows, she may can even be part of the traveling team next trip.
Today, let’s pray for another family who had originally tried to go on this trip, but it did not work out. Don Perkins and Whitney.
Don has been on a number of trips before with our church and with others. He and his parents, Mr. Bill and Mrs. Betty have been a vital part of the mission efforts of our church for years – as long as I have been in the church and even much longer. This year just did not work out for him to go. Whitney has been involved in many youth projects as well. They both have been to SIFAT and would be a great addition to the traveling team, but as we have been saying, God has a reason for them to stay home. Let’s pray for God to make that clear to them and to reveal his plan for their lives.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Buenos Dias,
Como Esta? What a blessing it was last night to visit with those in the Spanish class with Mrs. Spearman – wow, what a joy she is. 84 and still going strong and really enjoying helping us. Who knows, she may can even be part of the traveling team next trip.
Today, let’s pray for another family who had originally tried to go on this trip, but it did not work out. Don Perkins and Whitney.
Don has been on a number of trips before with our church and with others. He and his parents, Mr. Bill and Mrs. Betty have been a vital part of the mission efforts of our church for years – as long as I have been in the church and even much longer. This year just did not work out for him to go. Whitney has been involved in many youth projects as well. They both have been to SIFAT and would be a great addition to the traveling team, but as we have been saying, God has a reason for them to stay home. Let’s pray for God to make that clear to them and to reveal his plan for their lives.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
40 Days of Prayer - Day 24
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Today, let’s pray for Dave Becker and his family. Dave was an incredible blessing to me last year on our trip. He and I began a friendship as we planned the trip that has blossomed into a relationship that I pray God allows to continue for the rest of our lives. This year, Dave has not felt led to travel with us, but he has been in prayer for the team. Let’s return the favor.
Let’s pray for Dave and his walk with Christ. Let’s pray for Dave’s work situation. (It is still very unstable.), let’s pray for Kayla, Dylan, and Carson. Dave’s job responsibilities have increased dramatically over the last year as well as those at home. Pray for God’s blessing on his family and pray for the assurance that only God can provide.
Don’t forget Spanish tonight at 5:30 and the cookout Saturday night at 6 at my house.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Today, let’s pray for Dave Becker and his family. Dave was an incredible blessing to me last year on our trip. He and I began a friendship as we planned the trip that has blossomed into a relationship that I pray God allows to continue for the rest of our lives. This year, Dave has not felt led to travel with us, but he has been in prayer for the team. Let’s return the favor.
Let’s pray for Dave and his walk with Christ. Let’s pray for Dave’s work situation. (It is still very unstable.), let’s pray for Kayla, Dylan, and Carson. Dave’s job responsibilities have increased dramatically over the last year as well as those at home. Pray for God’s blessing on his family and pray for the assurance that only God can provide.
Don’t forget Spanish tonight at 5:30 and the cookout Saturday night at 6 at my house.
Submitted by Richard Baker
40 Days of Prayer - Day 23
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Wow – 17 left sounds close! It really is going to be here before we know it.
Today, let’s pray for the Leggett family. Last year, Keri and Laura were an incredibly important part of our in country team. Their spirit and their love for Christ and the people of Nicaragua were evident to everyone on the trip. This year, even though they are not able to travel with us, let’s don’t forget how God is using them. Pray for God’s hand to be on them and to protect them. Pray that God’s will is for them to be here this year and that he will open doors for them that they have not even thought about.
One of my favorite corporate slogans of all time was from GE. It was at Epcot and it said, “If you can dream it, we can do it.” But one of my favorite verses of scripture when I am down, or when I need to be reminded of how great God is or that he is in control, is Ephesians 3:20 – “Unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly more than we can ask or imagine, according to his power at work in us,” God wants to do even more than we can dream! We cannot comprehend how many blessings God has in store for us and we cannot comprehend all the ways he can use us, when we let his spirit work through us.
Pray that his spirit is working in our team and that he will do even greater things than we can imagine, and pray that he uses Keri and Laura in the same way here at home.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Wow – 17 left sounds close! It really is going to be here before we know it.
Today, let’s pray for the Leggett family. Last year, Keri and Laura were an incredibly important part of our in country team. Their spirit and their love for Christ and the people of Nicaragua were evident to everyone on the trip. This year, even though they are not able to travel with us, let’s don’t forget how God is using them. Pray for God’s hand to be on them and to protect them. Pray that God’s will is for them to be here this year and that he will open doors for them that they have not even thought about.
One of my favorite corporate slogans of all time was from GE. It was at Epcot and it said, “If you can dream it, we can do it.” But one of my favorite verses of scripture when I am down, or when I need to be reminded of how great God is or that he is in control, is Ephesians 3:20 – “Unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly more than we can ask or imagine, according to his power at work in us,” God wants to do even more than we can dream! We cannot comprehend how many blessings God has in store for us and we cannot comprehend all the ways he can use us, when we let his spirit work through us.
Pray that his spirit is working in our team and that he will do even greater things than we can imagine, and pray that he uses Keri and Laura in the same way here at home.
Submitted by Richard Baker
40 Days of Prayer - Day 22
Monday, July 6, 2009
Today, Let’s pray for the Kavitz family. Even though Keith and Michael had to back out of traveling with us, let’s pray for them as well as Linda.
This family has been a great blessing in our church and very active in so many areas. Pray that God will work out the scheduling as well as any other thing in their lives that will allow them to maybe travel with us on the next trip. And if God only wants them to be involved here, planning, and working, and being part of the support team, then let’s praise God for that.
Our tendency is to try to get the most numbers we can in any endeavor. That is how things are done in our world. But let’s remember that in God’s world, he can use the smallest or the largest – and anywhere in between. Our Sunday School lesson the last couple of weeks has been on Romans chapter 14 dealing with not judging and choosing to not offend your brother or sister. God is in control and it is not our place to do his job or to worry about if someone else is doing their job or not. Likewise, it is not our place to tell God who needs to be on the traveling part of our team. He has a plan. He needs people here. He needs people in Ecuador and all in between. Those members who have had to back out may have an incredible blessing here at home and God may have great things for them to do that only God knows about. Pray for them to be aware and discerning and to listen to God as he calls.
Don’t forget the Spanish class with Mrs. Spearman on Wednesday night and the cookout Saturday night at my home.
Richard T Baker III
Today, Let’s pray for the Kavitz family. Even though Keith and Michael had to back out of traveling with us, let’s pray for them as well as Linda.
This family has been a great blessing in our church and very active in so many areas. Pray that God will work out the scheduling as well as any other thing in their lives that will allow them to maybe travel with us on the next trip. And if God only wants them to be involved here, planning, and working, and being part of the support team, then let’s praise God for that.
Our tendency is to try to get the most numbers we can in any endeavor. That is how things are done in our world. But let’s remember that in God’s world, he can use the smallest or the largest – and anywhere in between. Our Sunday School lesson the last couple of weeks has been on Romans chapter 14 dealing with not judging and choosing to not offend your brother or sister. God is in control and it is not our place to do his job or to worry about if someone else is doing their job or not. Likewise, it is not our place to tell God who needs to be on the traveling part of our team. He has a plan. He needs people here. He needs people in Ecuador and all in between. Those members who have had to back out may have an incredible blessing here at home and God may have great things for them to do that only God knows about. Pray for them to be aware and discerning and to listen to God as he calls.
Don’t forget the Spanish class with Mrs. Spearman on Wednesday night and the cookout Saturday night at my home.
Richard T Baker III
40 Days of Prayer - Day 21
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Today let’s pray for the Shackelford family.
Even though other family concerns have arisen that are keeping them from traveling with us, there is no doubt that John, Kathy, and Katie are all a major part of our mission team. Please lift them up and their entire family as well. Pray for God’s hand to comfort them and to guide them. Pray for the good health of their entire family. And also pray that they will be a part of the next traveling team.
Pray for each of them individually. John. Kathy. Katie. Also pray for Eric. Rex. Stephen. This family has been such a wonderful part of our church family and words cannot express what they mean to me personally and I am sure to many others. Let them know we love them and that we appreciate them.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Today let’s pray for the Shackelford family.
Even though other family concerns have arisen that are keeping them from traveling with us, there is no doubt that John, Kathy, and Katie are all a major part of our mission team. Please lift them up and their entire family as well. Pray for God’s hand to comfort them and to guide them. Pray for the good health of their entire family. And also pray that they will be a part of the next traveling team.
Pray for each of them individually. John. Kathy. Katie. Also pray for Eric. Rex. Stephen. This family has been such a wonderful part of our church family and words cannot express what they mean to me personally and I am sure to many others. Let them know we love them and that we appreciate them.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Saturday, July 4, 2009
40 Days of Prayer - Day 20 (only 20 to go!)
Happy 4th of July! Have a great one.
Three weeks from now, we will be traveling. Wow. It is getting close.
Today, let’s pray for the our country and our leaders. As we celebrate our freedom today, and how our country has been blessed, let’s remember what our country started as. Let’s remember the principles of liberty and the biblical principles that have allowed our country to prosper. But let’s also remember that we as a nation are not living up to those same principles anymore. Pray that our country will turn back to God. Pray for his intervention.
We just have to look around the world to see how blessed we have been. But also, there have been many instances of “superpowers” throughout history who have turned from God and whose civilizations have declined and even been destroyed. Pray that ours will not. Pray that he will restore our nation.
See you tomorrow.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Three weeks from now, we will be traveling. Wow. It is getting close.
Today, let’s pray for the our country and our leaders. As we celebrate our freedom today, and how our country has been blessed, let’s remember what our country started as. Let’s remember the principles of liberty and the biblical principles that have allowed our country to prosper. But let’s also remember that we as a nation are not living up to those same principles anymore. Pray that our country will turn back to God. Pray for his intervention.
We just have to look around the world to see how blessed we have been. But also, there have been many instances of “superpowers” throughout history who have turned from God and whose civilizations have declined and even been destroyed. Pray that ours will not. Pray that he will restore our nation.
See you tomorrow.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Friday, July 3, 2009
Positive Power of Prayer (Oh look! Accidental alliteration! I LOVE that!)
We've been posting daily prayer for 19 days now, for specific families and specific needs. In this morning's post, Richard comments he could feel God's presence yesterday when his family was the focus of our prayers. Day 12 was "my" day for prayer and it was asked to also lift up my entrepreneurial endeavors. I've had my moments of doubt, but each time I'm close to despair, I have another breakthrough and each time I have another breakthrough, I look up and say (usually rather loudly) "thank you." I can feel the effects of others' prayers for me.
How about you? Have you noticed through this process (or another situation) the positive effects of prayer? Post your comments, please!
How about you? Have you noticed through this process (or another situation) the positive effects of prayer? Post your comments, please!
40 Days of Prayer - Day 19 (21 to go)
Friday, July 3, 2009
Today lets pray for the Corsons. Ken and Sarah have definitely been an incredible team as they have built SIFAT into a global ministry. And Tom as the current executive director is furthering God’s work, building upon the foundation laid by his parents. Tom will also be in Ecuador with us on our trip.
This family has given everything and devoted everything to serving Christ. Pray for them and their ministry. Pray for the concern they must have right now for their friends, associates, and brothers and sisters in Christ in Honduras with the political unrest there. Give them a peace that reminds them God is in control everywhere.
I also have been overwhelmed with a feeling to pray for some specific physical tangible need they have. I don’t know what it is, but pray that God will meet all of their needs now.
Also, Thank you for the prayers for me yesterday. I could definitely feel God’s presence more than the day before.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Today lets pray for the Corsons. Ken and Sarah have definitely been an incredible team as they have built SIFAT into a global ministry. And Tom as the current executive director is furthering God’s work, building upon the foundation laid by his parents. Tom will also be in Ecuador with us on our trip.
This family has given everything and devoted everything to serving Christ. Pray for them and their ministry. Pray for the concern they must have right now for their friends, associates, and brothers and sisters in Christ in Honduras with the political unrest there. Give them a peace that reminds them God is in control everywhere.
I also have been overwhelmed with a feeling to pray for some specific physical tangible need they have. I don’t know what it is, but pray that God will meet all of their needs now.
Also, Thank you for the prayers for me yesterday. I could definitely feel God’s presence more than the day before.
Submitted by Richard Baker
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Spanish Lesson Tonight!
At 5:30pm in the old fellowship hall, we'll have a very basic Spanish lesson followed by our regular members' meeting at 6:30.
See you there!
See you there!
40 Days of Prayer - Day 17 ( 23 to go)
Wow – what a blessing it was yesterday to run out of fish and deliver 425 plates. It is so amazing to know that God is in control of everything and that he is definitely in this trip. Thanks to everyone who worked hard selling, planning, cooking, serving, eating, and lifting up this event. You could just feel the excitement building about the trip as we were together as a team. Those times together are about much more than the money we raise. They are vital for the health of our team and God is using these times to make a team out of us. Please continue to pray for that and we hope everyone can be at more meetings over the next 23 days. (I like saying that) Remember that we have a cookout planned at my house next Saturday, July 11th at 6:00 in the afternoon. It is for anyone affiliated with this trip (not just the traveling team) and their families. Again, God can and will use these informal times to prepare us for this trip. Something special happens to groups when you break bread together and we are excited about that time. See you there.
Today, lets pray for Lisa Calcote.
Lisa is no stranger to our church family. She is Lana Phillips sister and they are daughters of Brother Lloyd and Mrs. Ann Calcote. Lisa grew up in the ministry and we are very excited about having her on this trip. Pray for her to be used as God sees fit. Not only her medical skills, but her spirit to be willing to God’s urging. Lisa has been on other mission trips, but this will be her first with our church. Also pray that if God is willing, that Lisa could become a permanent part of our church family.
Submitted by Richard Baker.
Today, lets pray for Lisa Calcote.
Lisa is no stranger to our church family. She is Lana Phillips sister and they are daughters of Brother Lloyd and Mrs. Ann Calcote. Lisa grew up in the ministry and we are very excited about having her on this trip. Pray for her to be used as God sees fit. Not only her medical skills, but her spirit to be willing to God’s urging. Lisa has been on other mission trips, but this will be her first with our church. Also pray that if God is willing, that Lisa could become a permanent part of our church family.
Submitted by Richard Baker.
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