Weeks of July 5-July 18

“Only fear the Lord and serve Him in truth with all your heart…”  I Samuel 12:24.  As our family and nation celebrated our country’s 239th birthday, we were reminded of God’s command to us in all circumstances.  We are determined to serve him on deputation, but we are desperate to reach Oahu and serve Him there!  We are incredibly blessed to live in the land of the free and the home of the brave.  One deputation blessing is having the opportunity to inhale so much of God’s creation, America.  We have been privileged to see Niagara Falls, the Mississippi River, the Gulf, and breathtaking landscapes.  We have been able to stop near historically famous places where men and women sacrificed their lives to procure and defend our distinct freedoms.  We praise God for a biblical heritage and thank Him for his mercy in our lives.

We were able to celebrate the Fourth in Collinsville, Illinois with the Victory Bible Baptist Church.    We enjoyed a death defying fireworks display at the church barbecue.  We were encouraged by this new, yet thriving work for God.  When we returned to their church on Sunday, they took a leap of faith, by voting to support our ministry to Hawaii.  

We were also able to attend the First Baptist Church of La Salle.  Rafael appreciated being able to share the burden God has placed on his heart with the church.  Pastor Waddell and his family graciously hosted our family for a delicious lunch.  We so enjoyed the time we were able to spend in their home.  

Our next meeting was in Pennsylvania.  Anthony Baptist Church is nestled in between a dairy farm and a rippling creek in the woods.  When we arrived for church Sunday morning, the whole herd of cows was ready and waiting.  Adelyn insisted we greet each one, and I think they enjoyed their little visitor!  Pastor Patrick and his family have accomplished so much in one year.  We were excited to hear about their upcoming VBS and many church activities.  We shared our burden with the eager church.  In the evening, while Rafael spoke with the men, Cara was able to speak with the women.  We all enjoyed a delicious home cooked meal afterwards! This church spoiled our family and provided many things for us.  We are thankful for God’s many means of provision and humbled by Christian’s generosity.