Christmas Children's Clubs
Saturday, December 20: Children, ages 4-14, some shabbily dressed, others in their best (if old) clothes, arrive to the Christmas party, ticket in hand. Under a ceiling of balloons and streamers, they squeeze onto narrow benches, 65 in all. Parents take chairs on one side. After a prayer, that the children repeat, as is customary, the leaders lead the children in a few songs and games with prizes. Then arrive costumed characters (Barney, Tigger, and Pucca (my niece Vasti) with her train) who get the children moving and laughing, as they dance to upbeat music. The children, eyes sparkling, are for the moment care-free.
I teach a lesson on giving ourselves to Jesus, like God did for us, like the wise men did for Jesus--giving the best. God helps me with my Spanish, so that I can present the lesson clearly. The older kids seem to take to heart the story and reflection, although the littlest ones whisper and wiggle. They memorize Matthew 2:11, and then color a picture of the 3 wise men. Afterward, they enjoy a meal of chicken and rice with carrot and peas and potatoes, bread, and hot chocolate (this is not for the cholesterol-obsessed!). Lastly, they are presented with gift bags filled with sugar, fruit cake, hot chocolate, milk, school supplies, colored pencils, yoyo, candy, shampoo, soap, toothbrush and paste, and toilet paper. In addition each gift bag has a wrapped gift according to the child's age--a car of plastic tools or a doll for those aged 4-6, a sports car or hair clips for those aged 7-10, and a soccer ball or volleyball for those aged 11-14. They offer thanks with huge smiles.
Those smiles make every penny, every drop of sweat, every minute--complete worth while!
Sunday, December 21: The celebration of Jesus’ birth is well attended. Over 100 children and their parents heard the message of love. First "Caminando Con Jesus," a ministry of young people that we often partner with, presents their program—dressed up as cartoon characters, they sing dance, and interacte with the children. I teach the message on giving to Jesus as the wise men did, trying to make it even clearer and briefer than the day before. The children pray with me, and then we sing happy birthday to Jesus and blow out candles on two large vanilla cakes, heavy with icing.
The children’s choir sing a few Christmas tunes, and then the children are served their dinner and cake. Lastly they receive their gifts. It is true what I taught in my lesson: it’s more blessed to give than to receive (because when one gives, one does indeed receive—joy and satisfaction)!
Thanks for making so many children smile! Thank you for being a part--for your financial support and prayers! God richly answered our prayers!
See photos in My Photos (photobucket): Christmas Clubs 2008.
Updates, poems, and stories of Rachel's missionary journey.
Saturday, November 01, 2008
Mercy into Madness
Rachel C. Deal
The spinning planet
Never stopping
My spinning thoughts
Never resting
I seek order
In the confusion
And beauty
In the turmoil
Lord, pour out Your mercy
Into the madness
Of this spinning planet
Of these spinning thoughts
So that I can see
Your power
So that I can experience
Your freedom
Rachel C. Deal
The spinning planet
Never stopping
My spinning thoughts
Never resting
I seek order
In the confusion
And beauty
In the turmoil
Lord, pour out Your mercy
Into the madness
Of this spinning planet
Of these spinning thoughts
So that I can see
Your power
So that I can experience
Your freedom
Thursday, October 30, 2008
In Acceptance Lieth Peace
By Amy Carmichael
He said, "I will forget the dying faces;
The empty places,
They shall be filled again.
O voices mourning deep within me, cease.'
But vain the word; vain, vain;
Not in forgetting lieth peace.
He said, 'I will crowd action upon action,
The strife of faction
Shall stir me and sustain;
O tears that drown the fire of manhood, cease.'
But vain the word; vain, vain;
Not in endeavor lieth peace.
He said 'I will withdraw me and be quiet,
Why meddle in life's riot?
Shut be my door to pain.
Desire, thou dost befool me, thou shalt cease.'
But vain the word; vain, vain;
Not in aloofness lieth peace.
He said, 'I will submit; I am defeated.
God hath depleted
My life of its rich gain,
O futile murmurings, why will ye not cease?'
But vain the word; vain, vain;
Not in submission lieth peace.
He said, 'I will accept the breaking sorrow
Which God tomorrow
Will to His son explain.'
Then did the turmoil deep within him cease.
Not vain the word, not vain;
For in acceptance lieth peace.
By Amy Carmichael
He said, "I will forget the dying faces;
The empty places,
They shall be filled again.
O voices mourning deep within me, cease.'
But vain the word; vain, vain;
Not in forgetting lieth peace.
He said, 'I will crowd action upon action,
The strife of faction
Shall stir me and sustain;
O tears that drown the fire of manhood, cease.'
But vain the word; vain, vain;
Not in endeavor lieth peace.
He said 'I will withdraw me and be quiet,
Why meddle in life's riot?
Shut be my door to pain.
Desire, thou dost befool me, thou shalt cease.'
But vain the word; vain, vain;
Not in aloofness lieth peace.
He said, 'I will submit; I am defeated.
God hath depleted
My life of its rich gain,
O futile murmurings, why will ye not cease?'
But vain the word; vain, vain;
Not in submission lieth peace.
He said, 'I will accept the breaking sorrow
Which God tomorrow
Will to His son explain.'
Then did the turmoil deep within him cease.
Not vain the word, not vain;
For in acceptance lieth peace.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Tomorrow, I come to the end of my 31st year. It hasn't been easy, but I've grown and learned to control my emocions better. I also learned recently that most of the year, I've had parasites. No wonder I've felt so bad! Antibiotics are doing their job, so hopefully I'll be recovered soon. I'm nearing the end of my job, and my stay in the US. I am preparing to return. I will have little time from now on to meet with anyone individually. I hope you will be able to come to the fundraiser and spend some time with me then. See you November 8!
Friday, October 24, 2008
My Name is Poor
By Rachel C. Deal
Hello. My name is Poor America.
I woke up this morning in a government paid-for apartment.
I showered in hot water—for twenty minutes.
I ate Kellogg's Rice Krispies® with 2% milk and a donut.
I drove to Wal-Mart five blocks away in my old Buick.
I filled up with gasoline that costs $3.89/ gallon.
I bought $100 worth of food with government-provided food stamps.
I had a cough.
I drove to the doctor.
I showed my medical card and was seen for free.
I drove to Penny's.
I bought a pair of Nike tennis shoes on credit.
I drove home.
It was hot outside.
I turned up the air conditioner.
My kids came home from school.
We watched T.V. and ate microwaved pizza.
I took a nap while the kids did their homework.
I did not go to work.
I have no job.
I did not look for work.
I did not need to.
The government takes care of me.
My name is Poor America.
Am I poor?
Hello. My name is Poor Perú.
I woke up this morning, early, before the sun became angry.
I showered from a bucket of well water that I collected last night.
I did not eat breakfast.
I walked five miles into town to look for work.
I stood in a long line and waited many hours to be turned down.
I had a cough.
I walked home.
It was hot.
I cooked rice over a fire.
My kids came home from school.
We ate rice, our one meal of the day.
I swept the dirt floor while the kids did their homework.
I left the kids with Grandma so that I could look for work.
I walked two miles.
I swept the floor of a restaurant and received a dollar.
I bought three eggs and a tomato to add to the rice tomorrow.
I walked home.
My shoes have worn thin.
It was dark.
I went to bed, hungry.
My name is Poor Perú.
Am I poor?
By Rachel C. Deal
Hello. My name is Poor America.
I woke up this morning in a government paid-for apartment.
I showered in hot water—for twenty minutes.
I ate Kellogg's Rice Krispies® with 2% milk and a donut.
I drove to Wal-Mart five blocks away in my old Buick.
I filled up with gasoline that costs $3.89/ gallon.
I bought $100 worth of food with government-provided food stamps.
I had a cough.
I drove to the doctor.
I showed my medical card and was seen for free.
I drove to Penny's.
I bought a pair of Nike tennis shoes on credit.
I drove home.
It was hot outside.
I turned up the air conditioner.
My kids came home from school.
We watched T.V. and ate microwaved pizza.
I took a nap while the kids did their homework.
I did not go to work.
I have no job.
I did not look for work.
I did not need to.
The government takes care of me.
My name is Poor America.
Am I poor?
Hello. My name is Poor Perú.
I woke up this morning, early, before the sun became angry.
I showered from a bucket of well water that I collected last night.
I did not eat breakfast.
I walked five miles into town to look for work.
I stood in a long line and waited many hours to be turned down.
I had a cough.
I walked home.
It was hot.
I cooked rice over a fire.
My kids came home from school.
We ate rice, our one meal of the day.
I swept the dirt floor while the kids did their homework.
I left the kids with Grandma so that I could look for work.
I walked two miles.
I swept the floor of a restaurant and received a dollar.
I bought three eggs and a tomato to add to the rice tomorrow.
I walked home.
My shoes have worn thin.
It was dark.
I went to bed, hungry.
My name is Poor Perú.
Am I poor?
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Global People
"Global People" never fully adjust to one culture: their own or their adopted one. Their old philosophy of ethnocentrism and uniformity is shattered (meaning: everything is equal, or my way is best). They now have a new philosophy of cultural variety (meaning: there are differences that work in each place). Within themselves, global people are a part of both worlds. When abroad, Americans dream of America and need little rituals that reaffirm this part of themselves--a food package from home, a letter, an American visitor from "home" who brings the latest news. When in America, they dream of their adopted country, and need little rituals that reaffirm this part of themselves--a conversation in that language with someone from "home" who shares the latest news, a meal with its food. They become alienated from those from their homeland, and they never fully fit into their adopted country. They find that their closest assosiates are other global people. Global people seem happiest when they are flying from one country to the other!
(from Cultural Differences by Paul Hiebert)
"La gente global” nunca se adapta completamente a una cultura: su propia tierra ni la adoptiva. Su vieja filosofia de etnocentrismo y uniformidad esta echado por tierra (todo es igual o mi manera de hacer algo es lo mejor). Ahora tiene una nueva filosofia de la variedad cultural (hay diferencias que funcionan en cada lugar). Desde dentro, la gente global se considera parte de ambos mundos. En el extranjero, el Americano suena de America y necesita rituales pequenos que reafirma esa parte en si mismo: un paquete de comida americana o un visita que trae noticias “de casa.” En America, suena de su pais adoptivo y necesita rituales pequenos que reafirma esa parte de si mismo: un plato tipico, una conversacion en la lengua adoptiva con alguien que comparte las noticias “de casa.” Esta alejado de sus paisanos y nunca se encaja completamente en su pais adoptivo. Se encuentra que sus companeros mas cercanos son otra gente global. La gente global parece mas feliz cuando vuele de un pais al otro!
(de Las Diferencias Culturales por Paul Hiebert)
"Global People" never fully adjust to one culture: their own or their adopted one. Their old philosophy of ethnocentrism and uniformity is shattered (meaning: everything is equal, or my way is best). They now have a new philosophy of cultural variety (meaning: there are differences that work in each place). Within themselves, global people are a part of both worlds. When abroad, Americans dream of America and need little rituals that reaffirm this part of themselves--a food package from home, a letter, an American visitor from "home" who brings the latest news. When in America, they dream of their adopted country, and need little rituals that reaffirm this part of themselves--a conversation in that language with someone from "home" who shares the latest news, a meal with its food. They become alienated from those from their homeland, and they never fully fit into their adopted country. They find that their closest assosiates are other global people. Global people seem happiest when they are flying from one country to the other!
(from Cultural Differences by Paul Hiebert)
"La gente global” nunca se adapta completamente a una cultura: su propia tierra ni la adoptiva. Su vieja filosofia de etnocentrismo y uniformidad esta echado por tierra (todo es igual o mi manera de hacer algo es lo mejor). Ahora tiene una nueva filosofia de la variedad cultural (hay diferencias que funcionan en cada lugar). Desde dentro, la gente global se considera parte de ambos mundos. En el extranjero, el Americano suena de America y necesita rituales pequenos que reafirma esa parte en si mismo: un paquete de comida americana o un visita que trae noticias “de casa.” En America, suena de su pais adoptivo y necesita rituales pequenos que reafirma esa parte de si mismo: un plato tipico, una conversacion en la lengua adoptiva con alguien que comparte las noticias “de casa.” Esta alejado de sus paisanos y nunca se encaja completamente en su pais adoptivo. Se encuentra que sus companeros mas cercanos son otra gente global. La gente global parece mas feliz cuando vuele de un pais al otro!
(de Las Diferencias Culturales por Paul Hiebert)
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Home:
When I am in Peru, part of me misses the States. And vice versa. I realize that I will never truly be satisfied until I reach my heavenly home. But until then, my heart is leaning toward Peru!
However, after a busy eight months working with the children’s clubs and Amazon villages, I made a trip home for grief therapy, which helped me remember my dad while letting go of some of the sadness. Stomach pain led to a double hernia surgery; and complications led to a hospital stay and huge medical bills. A lack of US insurance coverage forced me to look for a job to help pay the bills; the Lord gave me a sub position at St. Patrick Elementary as a reading teacher. I am also taking a world missions course, Perspectives, which has caused the flame in my heart for God’s name to be glorified among all people groups burn even greater.
I return to Peru early December to work with the river ministry and children’s clubs—Christmas time is busy—and to prepare for Josué’s and my small Peruvian wedding set for February 7. Later in the year we will have a reception in Louisville, KY. We will continue to be involved with the work in Iquitos as well as spend time in the States preparing for long-term ministry.
Thank you for your faithful support, prayers, and encouragement, especially this past year. I am in need of regular supporters and ask that you consider becoming part of my team, financially and prayerfully, as I invest in winning hearts for the kingdom of God. Thank you! May God reward you abundantly!
Love, Rachel
PS. I need a volunteer to take over the printing and mailing of my quarterly newsletters. Would you consider it, perhaps as your donation?
When I am in Peru, part of me misses the States. And vice versa. I realize that I will never truly be satisfied until I reach my heavenly home. But until then, my heart is leaning toward Peru!
However, after a busy eight months working with the children’s clubs and Amazon villages, I made a trip home for grief therapy, which helped me remember my dad while letting go of some of the sadness. Stomach pain led to a double hernia surgery; and complications led to a hospital stay and huge medical bills. A lack of US insurance coverage forced me to look for a job to help pay the bills; the Lord gave me a sub position at St. Patrick Elementary as a reading teacher. I am also taking a world missions course, Perspectives, which has caused the flame in my heart for God’s name to be glorified among all people groups burn even greater.
I return to Peru early December to work with the river ministry and children’s clubs—Christmas time is busy—and to prepare for Josué’s and my small Peruvian wedding set for February 7. Later in the year we will have a reception in Louisville, KY. We will continue to be involved with the work in Iquitos as well as spend time in the States preparing for long-term ministry.
Thank you for your faithful support, prayers, and encouragement, especially this past year. I am in need of regular supporters and ask that you consider becoming part of my team, financially and prayerfully, as I invest in winning hearts for the kingdom of God. Thank you! May God reward you abundantly!
Love, Rachel
PS. I need a volunteer to take over the printing and mailing of my quarterly newsletters. Would you consider it, perhaps as your donation?
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Ve a la gente.
Vive con la gente.
Aprende de ellos.
Empieza con lo que saben.
Construye en lo que tienen.
Pero lo mejor de lideres
Cuando se cumple su obra
Su trabaja se termina
La gente dirá:
Lo hemos hecho nuestros mismos.
--viejo poema chino
Go to the people.
Live among the people.
Learn from them.
Start with what they know.
Build on what they have.
But the best of leaders
When their task is accomplished
Their work is done
The people will say
We have done it ourselves.
--Old Chinese Poem
Vive con la gente.
Aprende de ellos.
Empieza con lo que saben.
Construye en lo que tienen.
Pero lo mejor de lideres
Cuando se cumple su obra
Su trabaja se termina
La gente dirá:
Lo hemos hecho nuestros mismos.
--viejo poema chino
Go to the people.
Live among the people.
Learn from them.
Start with what they know.
Build on what they have.
But the best of leaders
When their task is accomplished
Their work is done
The people will say
We have done it ourselves.
--Old Chinese Poem
Monday, July 21, 2008
My heart grieves
The poor increase at every hand
And illegal foreigners too
Birthrates skyrocket,
We can't grow enough food
Prices inflate
Natural catastrophes,
Millions homeless,
Floods, winds, droughts, plagues
Earthquakes, tsunamis, landslides
Hurricanes
Cholera, malaria, typhoid, AIDS
Laying low the thousands, millions
Criminals and crime and violence
Perversion and greed
Wars and rumors of same
Recession, layoffs, terminations
Failures, closers and foreclosures
The poor increase at every hand
I feel surrounded and I am afraid.
I could cast all my fears on God
And know His peace
I could trust Him
And not be afraid
And then
I could feed the hungry
From my abundance
I could clothe the naked
From my bulging closets
I could invite the homeless
Into my spacious house
I could tell the lost and dying
About the wondrous love
of God my Savior
I could
But I don't trust enough
To not be afraid
But I don't love enough
To not be afraid
So I’ll just secure my doors
A little tighter
Some dead bolts and bars
To bring a sense of security
I'll just secure my borders
And my identity a little tighter
Fences, guards and fire walls
I'll just gather a little more
To put away
Against a rainy day
I'll build my house a little larger
My hedges a little higher
My gates a little stronger
My dwelling just little more
Comfortable
As I isolate myself a little deeper
Inside my virtual cocoon
Of electronic gadgetry
No longer listening to
What I don't want to hear
Staring out occasionally
In apathetic lethargy
At the thousands dying daily
Without hope of heaven.
I could tell them
But I didn't and I won't
I could help them
But I didn't and I won't
But I will carefully give thanks
For all that Jesus has done for me.
Jason Nightingale, Wordsower International
The poor increase at every hand
And illegal foreigners too
Birthrates skyrocket,
We can't grow enough food
Prices inflate
Natural catastrophes,
Millions homeless,
Floods, winds, droughts, plagues
Earthquakes, tsunamis, landslides
Hurricanes
Cholera, malaria, typhoid, AIDS
Laying low the thousands, millions
Criminals and crime and violence
Perversion and greed
Wars and rumors of same
Recession, layoffs, terminations
Failures, closers and foreclosures
The poor increase at every hand
I feel surrounded and I am afraid.
I could cast all my fears on God
And know His peace
I could trust Him
And not be afraid
And then
I could feed the hungry
From my abundance
I could clothe the naked
From my bulging closets
I could invite the homeless
Into my spacious house
I could tell the lost and dying
About the wondrous love
of God my Savior
I could
But I don't trust enough
To not be afraid
But I don't love enough
To not be afraid
So I’ll just secure my doors
A little tighter
Some dead bolts and bars
To bring a sense of security
I'll just secure my borders
And my identity a little tighter
Fences, guards and fire walls
I'll just gather a little more
To put away
Against a rainy day
I'll build my house a little larger
My hedges a little higher
My gates a little stronger
My dwelling just little more
Comfortable
As I isolate myself a little deeper
Inside my virtual cocoon
Of electronic gadgetry
No longer listening to
What I don't want to hear
Staring out occasionally
In apathetic lethargy
At the thousands dying daily
Without hope of heaven.
I could tell them
But I didn't and I won't
I could help them
But I didn't and I won't
But I will carefully give thanks
For all that Jesus has done for me.
Jason Nightingale, Wordsower International
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Remembering Daddy
While I could never forget my precious dad, I wanted to make a grief wreath to honor him, based on the Bible verse, John 12:24 "Truly, truly, I say to you, Unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it abides alone; but if it dies, it brings forth much fruit."
My mom sent me a wreath, flowers, wheat, pumpkins, a vine, and a Bible verse. It was healing for me to put the wreath together and think about good Daddy memories. On a happy photo of my dad, I attached leaves on which I wrote a few of my dad's words of wisdom to me (there were a lot to choose from!). (Go to My Photos, Daddy)
I pray that my dad's life continues to touch and bless many people. He lives in my heart, and I am thankful for the spiritual inheritance that he left me. I miss him a lot--tears come to my eyes when I think about his laugh, his kindness, his flowers, his pancakes, his wierd jokes, his scratching my back, his advice and phone calls, his encouragement, his short but sweet notes, his evening prayers with me, our adventures together, walks, and conversations about ministry, politics, and life.
The past 7 months have been really difficult, as I processed shock, anger, and sadness (in a foreign country without my friends close by). But I have grown through it. You know, as my dad died and Jesus came to walk him Home, I was reading Psalm 23.
"The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table for me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever."
I thought those verses were for my dad, to give him peace as he died. I realize now, that he was already at peace. Those verses were for me. Altough my dad is not here, the Lord is with me, leading me and giving me rest. I was the one who walked through the valley of the shadow of death, and there was no fear. God assures me that He will be with me, as He is with my dad, all the days of my life--forever!
While I could never forget my precious dad, I wanted to make a grief wreath to honor him, based on the Bible verse, John 12:24 "Truly, truly, I say to you, Unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it abides alone; but if it dies, it brings forth much fruit."
My mom sent me a wreath, flowers, wheat, pumpkins, a vine, and a Bible verse. It was healing for me to put the wreath together and think about good Daddy memories. On a happy photo of my dad, I attached leaves on which I wrote a few of my dad's words of wisdom to me (there were a lot to choose from!). (Go to My Photos, Daddy)
I pray that my dad's life continues to touch and bless many people. He lives in my heart, and I am thankful for the spiritual inheritance that he left me. I miss him a lot--tears come to my eyes when I think about his laugh, his kindness, his flowers, his pancakes, his wierd jokes, his scratching my back, his advice and phone calls, his encouragement, his short but sweet notes, his evening prayers with me, our adventures together, walks, and conversations about ministry, politics, and life.
The past 7 months have been really difficult, as I processed shock, anger, and sadness (in a foreign country without my friends close by). But I have grown through it. You know, as my dad died and Jesus came to walk him Home, I was reading Psalm 23.
"The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table for me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever."
I thought those verses were for my dad, to give him peace as he died. I realize now, that he was already at peace. Those verses were for me. Altough my dad is not here, the Lord is with me, leading me and giving me rest. I was the one who walked through the valley of the shadow of death, and there was no fear. God assures me that He will be with me, as He is with my dad, all the days of my life--forever!
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Processing: The last few months, I have been extremely sad. I miss my dad a lot, and I guess I've been in shock. As I am reading in a Grief Therapy book, I find myself mostly in the suffering stage, although I go back to shock and forward to acceptance. Most days I cry and long to be in the States, but I always conclude that I need to stay here in Peru for several reasons: 1) while I would have more support in the States, my dad is not there, and my friends are busy, so it probably wouldn't be much easier, 2) I need Josue to go through this with me, and 3) there is ministry work to be done.
Village Work: I spent most of April in various communities, translating, and teaching, taking care of, and playing with the children…in hot sun and pouring rain, and always accompanied by mosquitos. But it was restful—hammock time, river baths, nature hikes, and Skip-Bo.
Children's Clubs: I have been teaching one children’s club since February, and helping in the other two. Next week, I am beginning an after-school tutoring program, to give the club kids a place to go two afternoons a week. My team will help with homework and teach the Bible, literacy, math, and English.
National Children’s Day: Josué and I had fun creating costumes and performing Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to help with a ministry event that shared God’s love to over 500 kids. Josué made the handsomest Prince Charming ever!
Josué: My loving boyfriend has patiently spent a large portion of his time helping me through my grief. This process has put stress on our relationship, but we are growing through it. Please pray for him, as he is in charge of coordinating the children’s clubs and river trips (several American teams come this summer). He is also studying English and hoping to continue his schooling.
I appreciate your prayers, any cards or packages you may send to my Iquitos address, and emails of encouragement. Rachel
Photos of the above mentioned activities have been added in Photo Bucket under April 2008.
Village Work: I spent most of April in various communities, translating, and teaching, taking care of, and playing with the children…in hot sun and pouring rain, and always accompanied by mosquitos. But it was restful—hammock time, river baths, nature hikes, and Skip-Bo.
Children's Clubs: I have been teaching one children’s club since February, and helping in the other two. Next week, I am beginning an after-school tutoring program, to give the club kids a place to go two afternoons a week. My team will help with homework and teach the Bible, literacy, math, and English.
National Children’s Day: Josué and I had fun creating costumes and performing Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to help with a ministry event that shared God’s love to over 500 kids. Josué made the handsomest Prince Charming ever!
Josué: My loving boyfriend has patiently spent a large portion of his time helping me through my grief. This process has put stress on our relationship, but we are growing through it. Please pray for him, as he is in charge of coordinating the children’s clubs and river trips (several American teams come this summer). He is also studying English and hoping to continue his schooling.
I appreciate your prayers, any cards or packages you may send to my Iquitos address, and emails of encouragement. Rachel
Photos of the above mentioned activities have been added in Photo Bucket under April 2008.
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Friday, February 29, 2008
Bottle of Tears
By Rachel C. Deal
January 15, 2008
Dedicated to my stepmom, Denise
There is a bottle on God’s shelf
Labeled with my name
He looks at it to remember
My tears of joy and pain
I’ve shed many tears since I was born
Due to hunger and scraped knees
Spankings and frustrations
And from feeling pleased
I cried when I was sick a lot
Because I felt alone
I cried when there were arguments
And conflict in my home
I sobbed on my first mission trip
At the sight of homeless kids
I sobbed with joy when I felt God’s call
To give my life to Him
I’ve experienced heartbreak
From the death of my sweet dad
I never would have imagined
That I could feel so sad
I’ve experienced mercy and grace
In salvation from above
I’ve tasted a bit of bliss
In my boyfriend’s love
On display in Heaven
Is a bottle that holds my tears
God tenderly collects each one
To show me that He cares
I never need to doubt
That He is by my side
He comforts me as a hen her chicks
And embraces me when I cry
Frasco de Lagrimas
Hay un frasco de lagrimas en un estante en el Cielo
Etiquetado con mi nombre
Dios lo mira para recordar
Mis lagrimas de gozo y dolor
He derramado muchas lagrimas desde que naci
De hambre y rodillas raspadas
De castigos y frustraciones
Y de sentir contenta
Lloré cuando estaba enferma por mucho tiempo
Porque sentía abandonada
Lloré cuando eran discusiones
Y conflictos en mi casa
Sollocé en mi primer viaje de misiones
Al ver niños de la calle
Sollocé con gozo cuando sentía el llamado de Dios
A dar mi vida a El
Experimenté un corazón quebrantado
Del muerto de mi dulce papá
Nunca podia imaginar
Que podría sentir tan triste
Experimenté la misericordia y gracia
En la salvación de Dios
Probé un poco de gloria
En el amor de mi novio
Exhibido en el Cielo
Es un frasco que sostiene mis lagrimas
Dios las collecciona tiernamente
Para mostrarme que me cuida
No debo dudar nunca
Que El está a mi lado
Me consuela como la gallina a sus polluelos
Me abraza cuando lloro
By Rachel C. Deal
January 15, 2008
Dedicated to my stepmom, Denise
There is a bottle on God’s shelf
Labeled with my name
He looks at it to remember
My tears of joy and pain
I’ve shed many tears since I was born
Due to hunger and scraped knees
Spankings and frustrations
And from feeling pleased
I cried when I was sick a lot
Because I felt alone
I cried when there were arguments
And conflict in my home
I sobbed on my first mission trip
At the sight of homeless kids
I sobbed with joy when I felt God’s call
To give my life to Him
I’ve experienced heartbreak
From the death of my sweet dad
I never would have imagined
That I could feel so sad
I’ve experienced mercy and grace
In salvation from above
I’ve tasted a bit of bliss
In my boyfriend’s love
On display in Heaven
Is a bottle that holds my tears
God tenderly collects each one
To show me that He cares
I never need to doubt
That He is by my side
He comforts me as a hen her chicks
And embraces me when I cry
Frasco de Lagrimas
Hay un frasco de lagrimas en un estante en el Cielo
Etiquetado con mi nombre
Dios lo mira para recordar
Mis lagrimas de gozo y dolor
He derramado muchas lagrimas desde que naci
De hambre y rodillas raspadas
De castigos y frustraciones
Y de sentir contenta
Lloré cuando estaba enferma por mucho tiempo
Porque sentía abandonada
Lloré cuando eran discusiones
Y conflictos en mi casa
Sollocé en mi primer viaje de misiones
Al ver niños de la calle
Sollocé con gozo cuando sentía el llamado de Dios
A dar mi vida a El
Experimenté un corazón quebrantado
Del muerto de mi dulce papá
Nunca podia imaginar
Que podría sentir tan triste
Experimenté la misericordia y gracia
En la salvación de Dios
Probé un poco de gloria
En el amor de mi novio
Exhibido en el Cielo
Es un frasco que sostiene mis lagrimas
Dios las collecciona tiernamente
Para mostrarme que me cuida
No debo dudar nunca
Que El está a mi lado
Me consuela como la gallina a sus polluelos
Me abraza cuando lloro
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Nauta
Monday to Wednesday, I worked with the same team that helped me out with last week's VBS. We spent three days in a community 2 hours away by car (the farthest one can go via car in the Iquiteñan jungle). Nauta is a small city, with a few stores and one often-ignored traffic light! We held four events. Monday night was an introduction, where we gathered the kids together in the plaza to play games and share with them about Jesus' love. I dressed up as "Tamara." (see My Photos: Nauta) The eyes are far apart, so I could only see out one eye at a time and the head is very stuffy, so I sweated heavily as I, leading the girls, played tug-of-war against the boys, led by a teammate. The girls won, and we all had a great time. Tuesday afternoon, we taught 160 children about sharing via clowns (I was Baby Pricila), a puppet show, and crafts. That night, more than 200 children heard how special they are: that all God's children are princes and princesses...as their Father is the King of kings! Queen Esther (aka Rachel) shared her "rags to riches" story. Wednesday afternoon, after songs, games, and competitions, I taught how we are soldiers in God's army, and how we must protect ourselves against the enemy with the armor of God (from Ephesians 6). The kids then colored cut-out figures. (This was an improved version of the lesson I taught at last week's VBS.) The team returned to Iquitos late last night. I'm exhausted...but what a mark we left on the children of Nauta!
Monday to Wednesday, I worked with the same team that helped me out with last week's VBS. We spent three days in a community 2 hours away by car (the farthest one can go via car in the Iquiteñan jungle). Nauta is a small city, with a few stores and one often-ignored traffic light! We held four events. Monday night was an introduction, where we gathered the kids together in the plaza to play games and share with them about Jesus' love. I dressed up as "Tamara." (see My Photos: Nauta) The eyes are far apart, so I could only see out one eye at a time and the head is very stuffy, so I sweated heavily as I, leading the girls, played tug-of-war against the boys, led by a teammate. The girls won, and we all had a great time. Tuesday afternoon, we taught 160 children about sharing via clowns (I was Baby Pricila), a puppet show, and crafts. That night, more than 200 children heard how special they are: that all God's children are princes and princesses...as their Father is the King of kings! Queen Esther (aka Rachel) shared her "rags to riches" story. Wednesday afternoon, after songs, games, and competitions, I taught how we are soldiers in God's army, and how we must protect ourselves against the enemy with the armor of God (from Ephesians 6). The kids then colored cut-out figures. (This was an improved version of the lesson I taught at last week's VBS.) The team returned to Iquitos late last night. I'm exhausted...but what a mark we left on the children of Nauta!
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Children's Club
This morning, I had the privilege to teach the children's club at my church Torre Fuerte (which being on a Sunday morning is basically Sunday School with food). Seventy children came and I took the miracle of the ice cream on Friday and taught the miracle of the multiplication of the 2 fish and 5 loaves of bread, which fed around 20,000 people. Praise God, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever!
The kids acted out the story, shared how God has provide for them, thanked Him in prayer, and enjoyed a relay race carrying "fish" and "bread" on a fork.
See My Photos: February 2008.
This morning, I had the privilege to teach the children's club at my church Torre Fuerte (which being on a Sunday morning is basically Sunday School with food). Seventy children came and I took the miracle of the ice cream on Friday and taught the miracle of the multiplication of the 2 fish and 5 loaves of bread, which fed around 20,000 people. Praise God, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever!
The kids acted out the story, shared how God has provide for them, thanked Him in prayer, and enjoyed a relay race carrying "fish" and "bread" on a fork.
See My Photos: February 2008.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
VBS: Torre Fuerte, Iquitos
This past week, I organized a VBS for 100 children from the neighborhood of my church, Torre Fuerte, where we met from 3-6pm. The theme was I am God's Treasure, and each day the kids learned, through games, songs, puppets, clowns, stories, and manuel activities, how they are God's treasures: special, chosen, soldiers, champeons, and princes and princesses. It was a wonderful week--I loved preparing and performing (baby clown and Queen Esther) and teaching. The team was united and we all had a great time!
We were able to purchase all the craft materials and food necessary and remain within my $100 budget--to the penny. The last day the kids went on a treasure hunt, and the reward was an ice cream bar. When a teammate went to buy the ice cream, the store was out of the cheapest kind; but God had mercy and the boss gave us $90 worth of ice cream for $17! Amazing!
See photos in My Photos: VBS Torre Fuerte.
This past week, I organized a VBS for 100 children from the neighborhood of my church, Torre Fuerte, where we met from 3-6pm. The theme was I am God's Treasure, and each day the kids learned, through games, songs, puppets, clowns, stories, and manuel activities, how they are God's treasures: special, chosen, soldiers, champeons, and princes and princesses. It was a wonderful week--I loved preparing and performing (baby clown and Queen Esther) and teaching. The team was united and we all had a great time!
We were able to purchase all the craft materials and food necessary and remain within my $100 budget--to the penny. The last day the kids went on a treasure hunt, and the reward was an ice cream bar. When a teammate went to buy the ice cream, the store was out of the cheapest kind; but God had mercy and the boss gave us $90 worth of ice cream for $17! Amazing!
See photos in My Photos: VBS Torre Fuerte.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Iquitos: home at last
Contentedness does not come easy for me. It´s been hard to enjoy life these past several months. But I am trying. The trip to Ecuador not only gave me 90 more days on my Peruvian visa (when I re-entered Peru) but it was a great distraction (as you can see from the photos in Photobucket, section Ecuador). Josué is working in Ecuador, staff of a missions school for a month. I spent last week in Lima, attending a Christian conference focused on creativity in ministry. It was inspiring. Thanks for your continued support, emails and prayers. Blessings.
Prayer Requests:
my health, emotionally and physically
wisdom and safety for Josué
my grandma´s health
growth for my church in Iquitos
Contentedness does not come easy for me. It´s been hard to enjoy life these past several months. But I am trying. The trip to Ecuador not only gave me 90 more days on my Peruvian visa (when I re-entered Peru) but it was a great distraction (as you can see from the photos in Photobucket, section Ecuador). Josué is working in Ecuador, staff of a missions school for a month. I spent last week in Lima, attending a Christian conference focused on creativity in ministry. It was inspiring. Thanks for your continued support, emails and prayers. Blessings.
Prayer Requests:
my health, emotionally and physically
wisdom and safety for Josué
my grandma´s health
growth for my church in Iquitos
Monday, January 14, 2008
Josué
I am adding Josué as a link, so you can read his newsletters, put out every other month. They will be in Spanish and English. He has his unique style and shares information that I might not, as he focused on events and I on emotions! Only this first time, I am putting his newsletter on my blog, as the link is not yet posted.
I am adding Josué as a link, so you can read his newsletters, put out every other month. They will be in Spanish and English. He has his unique style and shares information that I might not, as he focused on events and I on emotions! Only this first time, I am putting his newsletter on my blog, as the link is not yet posted.
Josue’s Newsletter: January/ February 2008
January: Mission Trip, Momón and Nanay Rivers.
January 3-6, I traveled with a group of missionaries from Perú and the States to minister in several communities, San Antonio, Flor de Agosto, and Santo Tomás. Every night, we showed a Christian video in each community, afterward sharing the Gospel. The people were receptive and we prayed for them at the end of each program.
The first day, the team dug a well for San Antonio, and we evangelized house to house. I spent the second day buying supplies for the rest of the trip. The third day, we went to Flor de Agosto. Before showing the film, we spent the afternoon teaching Bible stories (with songs and manual activities) and playing games with the children. The guys played soccer with the young men of the community. That was fun for me! The path to the community took about 15 minutes and because it had rained the night before was all mud and water. We tried to walk on dry ground and cross bridges made of narrow tree branches, but we all ended up with mud up to our ankles. The return was even more adventurous, as it was night. Once on the boat, I navigated it the 30 minutes back to San Antonio, also crazy, as our boat currently is without a headlight. So I had two small flashlights to try to keep us away from the sides of the river. We almost crashed four times, which scared me, but the team of 20 people wasn’t aware. Thank the Lord we arrived safely! The last day, we spent the evening in Santo Tomás ministering. The trip was a blessing, to the people, to the team, and to me.
February: Trip to Babahoyo, Ecuador.
A missionary group invited me to help them direct a mission school in an Ecuadorian city, north of Guayaquil. I will be one of the 15 staff, working with 150 students. Although I will be far away from my girlfriend, I pray that God uses me in this new experience to be a bridge to encourage the youth who want to work in missions.
Rachel will travel with me to Guayaquil so we can sightsee together; plus it will allow her to renew her visa so she can stay more time in Perú.
March: Future Plans.
When I return, my team, led my Brandon Carroll with Thirst No More, will take a trip to the Napo River to visit the indigenous in the community of San Juan, and to have baptismal and marriage ceremonies. We will also return to the Momón River to visit several communities, including some new ones who have never heard the Gospel. And of course, we will continue to work with the children’s clubs on the weekends, adding after school tutoring several afternoons of the week.
Prayer Requests:
•Protection in the trip to Ecuador.
•Encouragement and strength for the children’s clubs and river ministry.
•More workers with a passion for missions and financial supporters.
•My relationship with Rachel and the month we are apart.
Thank you, friends, for your prayers and support in the ministry to which God has called me. May God strengthen and bless you.
Love in Christ, Josué Ahuite P., from “Iquitos es bonito.”
Revelations 5:9 “…You were slain and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every kindred and tongue and people and nation.”
January: Mission Trip, Momón and Nanay Rivers.
January 3-6, I traveled with a group of missionaries from Perú and the States to minister in several communities, San Antonio, Flor de Agosto, and Santo Tomás. Every night, we showed a Christian video in each community, afterward sharing the Gospel. The people were receptive and we prayed for them at the end of each program.
The first day, the team dug a well for San Antonio, and we evangelized house to house. I spent the second day buying supplies for the rest of the trip. The third day, we went to Flor de Agosto. Before showing the film, we spent the afternoon teaching Bible stories (with songs and manual activities) and playing games with the children. The guys played soccer with the young men of the community. That was fun for me! The path to the community took about 15 minutes and because it had rained the night before was all mud and water. We tried to walk on dry ground and cross bridges made of narrow tree branches, but we all ended up with mud up to our ankles. The return was even more adventurous, as it was night. Once on the boat, I navigated it the 30 minutes back to San Antonio, also crazy, as our boat currently is without a headlight. So I had two small flashlights to try to keep us away from the sides of the river. We almost crashed four times, which scared me, but the team of 20 people wasn’t aware. Thank the Lord we arrived safely! The last day, we spent the evening in Santo Tomás ministering. The trip was a blessing, to the people, to the team, and to me.
February: Trip to Babahoyo, Ecuador.
A missionary group invited me to help them direct a mission school in an Ecuadorian city, north of Guayaquil. I will be one of the 15 staff, working with 150 students. Although I will be far away from my girlfriend, I pray that God uses me in this new experience to be a bridge to encourage the youth who want to work in missions.
Rachel will travel with me to Guayaquil so we can sightsee together; plus it will allow her to renew her visa so she can stay more time in Perú.
March: Future Plans.
When I return, my team, led my Brandon Carroll with Thirst No More, will take a trip to the Napo River to visit the indigenous in the community of San Juan, and to have baptismal and marriage ceremonies. We will also return to the Momón River to visit several communities, including some new ones who have never heard the Gospel. And of course, we will continue to work with the children’s clubs on the weekends, adding after school tutoring several afternoons of the week.
Prayer Requests:
•Protection in the trip to Ecuador.
•Encouragement and strength for the children’s clubs and river ministry.
•More workers with a passion for missions and financial supporters.
•My relationship with Rachel and the month we are apart.
Thank you, friends, for your prayers and support in the ministry to which God has called me. May God strengthen and bless you.
Love in Christ, Josué Ahuite P., from “Iquitos es bonito.”
Revelations 5:9 “…You were slain and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every kindred and tongue and people and nation.”
Processing the Grief
Friends, I ask that you continue to pray for me, as I grieve the loss of my dad and learn to live in the present. I do not see the why, but am learning to trust the Who. Thanks. Rachel
Some verses that minister to my broken heart:
•Psalm 34:17-18 The righteous cry, and Jehovah hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles. Jehovah is near to the broken-hearted; and saves those who are of a contrite spirit.
•Psalm 147:3 He heals the broken-hearted, and binds up their wounds.
•Psalm 30:5 …Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.
•Isaiah 43:19 Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall sprout; shall you not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, rivers in the desert.
•2 Corinthians 1:4 He comforts us in all our trouble, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in every trouble, through the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
•Lamentations 3:24-26 Jehovah is my portion [He is enough—all I should desire and hope for], says my soul; therefore I will hope in Him. Jehovah is good to those who wait for Him, to the soul who seeks Him. It is good that one should hope for the salvation of Jehovah, even in silence.
•Psalm 57:1 Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me; for my soul trusts in You; yes, in the shadow of Your wings I will make my hiding-place, until these great troubles pass by.
•Psalm 62:5-8 My soul, be silent only to God; for my hope is from Him. He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my strong tower; I shall not be shaken. In God is my salvation and my glory; the rock of my strength; my hiding-place is in God. Trust in Him at all times; [Rachel], pour out your heart before Him; God is your hiding-place. Selah.
“The Weaver”
My life is but a weaving
Between my Lord and me.
I cannot choose the colors
He worketh steadily.
Oftimes He weaveth sorrow,
And I in foolish pride
Forget He sees the upper
And I, the underside.
Not till the loom is silent
And the shuttles cease to fly
Shall God unroll the canvas
And explain the reason why.
The dark threads are as needful
In the Weaver’s skillful hand
As the threads of gold and silver
In the pattern He has planned.
—Author unknown
Friends, I ask that you continue to pray for me, as I grieve the loss of my dad and learn to live in the present. I do not see the why, but am learning to trust the Who. Thanks. Rachel
Some verses that minister to my broken heart:
•Psalm 34:17-18 The righteous cry, and Jehovah hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles. Jehovah is near to the broken-hearted; and saves those who are of a contrite spirit.
•Psalm 147:3 He heals the broken-hearted, and binds up their wounds.
•Psalm 30:5 …Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.
•Isaiah 43:19 Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall sprout; shall you not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, rivers in the desert.
•2 Corinthians 1:4 He comforts us in all our trouble, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in every trouble, through the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
•Lamentations 3:24-26 Jehovah is my portion [He is enough—all I should desire and hope for], says my soul; therefore I will hope in Him. Jehovah is good to those who wait for Him, to the soul who seeks Him. It is good that one should hope for the salvation of Jehovah, even in silence.
•Psalm 57:1 Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me; for my soul trusts in You; yes, in the shadow of Your wings I will make my hiding-place, until these great troubles pass by.
•Psalm 62:5-8 My soul, be silent only to God; for my hope is from Him. He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my strong tower; I shall not be shaken. In God is my salvation and my glory; the rock of my strength; my hiding-place is in God. Trust in Him at all times; [Rachel], pour out your heart before Him; God is your hiding-place. Selah.
“The Weaver”
My life is but a weaving
Between my Lord and me.
I cannot choose the colors
He worketh steadily.
Oftimes He weaveth sorrow,
And I in foolish pride
Forget He sees the upper
And I, the underside.
Not till the loom is silent
And the shuttles cease to fly
Shall God unroll the canvas
And explain the reason why.
The dark threads are as needful
In the Weaver’s skillful hand
As the threads of gold and silver
In the pattern He has planned.
—Author unknown
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
