Castro Chronicles

Braggin' on God

2012-02-02T16:19:00.000-06:00

About a week ago I sat down to write out some thank you cards. As I thanked people for their continued support, for the ones who surprised us with a financial gift in December, and for those who blessed us by blessing our baby... I was just overwhelmed with gratitude!

I could have cried with every note I wrote, and no it's not just the hormones! ;-) That week we also received a bassinet on loan from other missionaries here in Quito. I received a thank you letter from a former student, and our landlords brought us homemade figs and fresh cheese! I thought, "Lord, if you bless me anymore I'm just going to burst!"

I walked down the street and felt the gentle breeze against my cheeks and began to sing songs of thanksgiving to Him who gives us all things. Not just the material/financial things, but the little gifts that He has for us each and every day. The sound of the birds chirping outside my window, the smell of the eucalyptus trees in the park, how my dog gently tries to sneak into our bed at 5 a.m. so she can snuggle with us a few minutes. They all make me smile because they are just small gifts from Him letting me know how much He loves me.

It's pretty amazing. I know I should write them all down. I know I won't always have this "about to burst feeling" because there are always trials just right around the corner. But it's during those times that I can look back and be grateful. I don't have to set my eyes on my circumstances, I don't have to be angry. I can choose to break those destructive patterns, I can choose to be grateful for His unconditional love. I can even choose to be grateful for the trial set before me!

"The Future is a Phantom, Seeking to Spook You"

2012-01-18T19:21:00.000-06:00

Do you ever think too much or worry about the future? I know I have. It's a daily battle to not go there. As I read a devotional this morning, I was reminded of how I should laugh at the future instead of worry about it.

Several years ago, Larry and I were accepted to HCJB Global. We were scared to start the process or rather, to start raising support. We tried for a year and a half doing it our way wondering if we would ever get there. Our fear of asking people to support us was greater at that time than our faith in the God that gives all things. It wasn't until we stepped out of the boat, putting ALL of our trust in Him, that we began to see Him work it all out. It's funny because I remember thinking, "Wow! We were scared for nothing! God is doing it all, it was actually easy doing it His way."

You see, when we decided to NOT be afraid and TRUST in the Lord, we actually had people asking how they could support us. When we spoke with friends about what we were doing, they asked us how they could be apart of it! I just had to laugh! All that time spent being afraid of the rejection, of what others 'may think', and it was all for nothing.

The Lord says, "No weapon formed against me will prosper." At first those waves of fear seemed treacherous. Yet when we learn to fix our eyes on Him, the One who never changes, by the time those waves reach us they will have shrunk.

So today, I make a conscious decision to laugh about the unknown. I pray that you will do the same and not remain stuck in the "phantom" of what truly does not exist.

Empty Me of "Me" So I Can Be Filled with More of YOU!

2011-11-07T12:46:00.000-06:00

About a month ago, I began to wonder... Lord is there any hope for me?! Or am I just going to repeat this sin over and over again? No matter how much I tried, or how much I prayed, I kept doing what I didn't want to do. I wanted to be a better wife, but I just felt stuck and it was not a good feeling. I remember asking the Lord and my husband, "Is this one of those sins that will follow until the 3rd or 4th generation?" Is there any hope, because I sure am trying... and I keep doing the same thing!

Branch that is not connected is "dead."

Branch that is connected bears good fruit.

I went on a Women's Retreat about 2 weeks ago. It was refreshing and enlightening. Sometimes, you "know" it in your head, it just hasn't made it to your heart yet. I know God loves me. I know that Christianity is not a "salvation by works" religion. Yet, ironically, that is exactly what I was trying to do! I was trying to fix my wrong behavior (over-reacting, and getting defensive) on my own strength, and was becoming frustrated because I wasn't getting anywhere. Our facilitator at the retreat said something that stuck, "It isn't your job to fix it. It's God's." Then last weekend at church the Pastor reminded us that a branch which is not connected to the vine is "dead." That we can't do anything if we are not connected to the vine. What a relief to know in my heart that my job is not to fix anything, my job is simply to remain connected to the vine-Jesus!

Here is something I read in my devotional this morning called, "Jesus Calling" by Sarah Young:

Walk peacefully with Me through this day. You are wondering how you will cope with all that is expected of you. You must traverse this day like any other: one step at a time. Instead of mentally rehearsing how you will do this or that, keep your mind on My Presence and on taking the next step. The more demanding your day, the more help you can expect from Me. This is a training opportunity, since I designed you for deep dependence on your Shepherd-King. Challenging times wake you up and amplify your awareness of needing My help.
When you don't know what to do, wait while I open the way before you. Trust that I know what I'm doing, and be ready to follow My lead. I will give strength to you, and I will bless you with Peace.

Orphanage, Grandparents, and Listener Responses

2011-11-05T07:53:00.000-05:00

An Orphanage in the Jungle

2011-10-03T17:40:00.000-05:00

Last week I had the opportunity to join with Oakwood Baptist on a mission trip to an orphanage near the jungle. It was so neat to see all God had done in the past year! Last year when we went, the kids were crammed in a small house with no grass and no room to play. Now they have wide open spaces and lots more room to spread out. It was such an encouragement to be with such an awesome group for the week. We had many laughs and praise God for his protection throughout the trip. Below are some pics of what we did.

Assembly line-passing the concrete

One of the easier jobs;-)

Finished product-where all the kids live

Glenn and I

This kiddo stole my heart last year-love that boy!

Eating ice cream in Salcedo

At Mitad del Mundo in our Ecuadorian gear!

Loving on the kiddos

Kev working on the school

Melted my heart!

Jeff chats with Johnathan

Jean holding one of the twins

On the way into the jungle to see the Waorani

Pushing cement thing up the stairs=SCARY!

Hauling buckets of rocks with Hal

Birds eye view of school

Road side stop on the way to Shell

McDonald's Breakfast

2011-09-04T16:42:00.000-05:00

My dream breakfast, haha!

Friday night we went to spend the night with some friends in Sangolqui (normally only 35 minutes from Quito) However, because we left during high traffic hours, it took us nearly 2 hours. It was dark, we couldn't see signs, and we got turned around a few times to say the least.

Finally, we sat down at around 9:00 p.m. to eat dinner and enjoyed a great evening with great friends. We spoke to Larry's grandparents the day before while they were eating their breakfast and drinking coffee at a little restaurant. Our friends had a meeting the next morning, so I had the bright idea to go to McDonald's and have breakfast (like his cute grandparents)! Doesn't it sound good... a nice hot sausage biscuit or pancakes with hash browns and coffee? I thought it would be fun to enjoy a nice breakfast with my hubby. However, Larry wasn't so excited because he didn't want to get lost again.

That's when our friend offered to loan us their GPS. Well, needless to say..."7 miles in Ecuador is not the same as driving 7 miles in Texas!" An hour later, we finally make it to our destination, which was practically back in Quito. I'm so excited to sink my teeth into a "McMuffin and coffee" only to find out that they don't open until 10, it was 9:15 when we arrived! So we waited an hour, only to find that they don't serve breakfast! So, we ended up with a hamburger and chicken nuggets for breakfast:-(

Well, as my high school students would say it was an "Epic Fail!" So we took "Kathryn-the GPS" out to find our way back. Let's just say, she had no idea where we were. She kept leading us down cobble-stoned roads with chickens instead of main Ecuadorian freeways! In the end, we pulled over and asked the Ecuadorians for directions and eventually made it back to Sangolqui... 3 hours later!

Although nothing turned out the way I had hoped, one thing is for sure... we will NOT be buying a GPS! It was incredibly frustrating and I have to admit, that I wish I would have listened to my husband. Yet God teaches us and molds us in those situations. We learn a little more about one another, and we learn what NOT to do ever again! So if you live in Ecuador, don't plan on getting breakfast at McDonald's, instead you should try El Español... they had ham and cheese croissants with coffee and fruit!

God Provides!

2011-08-31T22:39:00.000-05:00

In January, I started working with kids from low income families. In June, a church came not only to minister to the kids but also donated 3 computers for a new computer lab! The most amazing thing is that God has orchestrated every detail. It doesn't even seem like work, because I haven't called to ask anyone for anything! Churches and individuals have contacted me to see what the kids need! It has been such a blessing to see the joy on the kids faces when they hear we serve an Almighty God that touches peoples hearts from the United States to send them personal items so they can be successful. It is very rewarding and I am beyond amazed at how God does it. So thank you so much for thinking of these children that live thousands of miles away and for being the "hands and feet" of Jesus to them. On Monday, they will be starting school with brand new supplies, shampoo, deodorant, and the basic essentials to start the year off right because someone cared enough to give. Thank you so much! Below is a video of their shopping experience at "The Market."

What difference do it make?

2011-07-29T13:28:00.001-05:00

Last month we were so blessed to have a team from Cowboy Fellowship come to Ecuador to work with the kids that Amanda works with on a weekly basis. They are kids from low-income families, and without the help of "The Moses Project" they would not have the money or resources to go to school and would therefore be working on the street like many other Ecuadorian children.

Not only did the team come to love on them and show them God's love by giving the school a face-lift and conducting VBS classes... they also built a house for the guard of the church. Recently, he was diagnosed with Parkinson's and has fallen down the steep stairs that lead to a small 12x12 classroom where he and his wife and 2 teenage children live. Praise the Lord, now they have a small kitchen area, a bathroom, and 2 bedrooms.

I'd like to share a comment by Denver Moore, co-author of "Same Kind of Different As Me and What Difference Do It Make?." He says, "I was sho 'nough happy to hear that story 'cause it shows that even if you bless some needy person just a little bit, God might use other folks down the line to weave your little gift into a bigger blessin. And if you bless folks, you gon' get the blessin back, no matter what they does with the money. So you give the gift with no strings attached, and let God take care a' business on the other end."

Yesterday, I went to talk with the family about moving into their new home. After a few renovations, they will be able to do just that. But the cool thing was to hear how another teacher at the school donated furniture and another... some curtains, and I have a feelin' it's just the beginning! Not only that, but soon after we finished the house, we received suitcases of items from a church in Pasadena, TX giving things like toothpaste, school supplies, and educational books for the kids. God is definitely doing a mighty work here and what a blessing to see it unfold! Check out the video below to see more!

From Hot Bread to a Hot Ticket?!

2011-07-06T16:51:00.002-05:00

This morning, I woke up determined to try a new approach in how I communicated with Ecuadorians. I recently read a few pages about "cultural differences" south of the U.S. border. When it comes to getting what we want, Americans have a "business" mindset. Not in the Latin culture... it's all about relationships!

So I put on my walking shoes, grabbed some change from the counter, and took Callie (our dog) out for a morning walk with a plan to stop at the bakery on our way home. I learned how it is important to say something nice to the baker. For example, "Wow! It smells so good in here, the bread looks so delicious!" By doing this, you make the owner feel like they are important. So, that's what I did. I asked if they had any type of bread that had a filling because it looked like they were just about out of everything. That's when the young man went to the back and brought me 2 hot fresh pieces of bread, straight from the oven. He wrapped them in a paper bag to keep them warm and I left the store a happy camper. Little did I know how the same attitude would help me tremendously a few hours later.

We were on our way to a new restaurant with Larry's parents (they came to spend the week with us) when we came upon a very large hill. Now, in most cases, that wouldn't be a problem. However, our car does not go up steep hills very well... especially if you have to stop. There was a policeman there directing traffic and he stopped the cars so we could pass. So I pushed the gas pedal all the way down... and we didn't budge! I even tried leaning forward and doing the rocking motion... nothing! So Larry and his Dad got out of the car to push it (not embarrassing at all :-). Once they got out, the car slowly began to inch forward and with a little shove we were on our way, only to be stopped by the officer.

Evidently, in the process of going to the part of the hill that wasn't as steep, I entered into the other lane of ongoing traffic, and he was going to write me a ticket. I tried explaining that my car wouldn't go up on the other part which is why I inched my way over after he stopped the oncoming traffic. Didn't matter, he was still going to write me a big fat ticket. So after a few minutes of discussion, I gave up trying to explain and accepted that I was about to get a ticket in which I would later have to go stand in line for hours in order to pay. That's when I heard Larry's Dad say from the backseat, "Tell him thank you Amanda, for doing his job." So, as he's writing my ticket, I say, "Officer, I just want to tell you thank you for doing your job. I know it is a difficult job, and I appreciate all you do to protect us. I'm sorry that I misunderstood." He stopped, leaned closer and said, "What did you say?" So I repeated myself.

He walked away to where his superior officer was standing and after a few moments they both returned, handed me my license and said, "Have a good night. We're letting you go." What?!?! Really?!?! I thanked him profusely and wondered what he must have told the other officer... probably something like, "She just thanked me for writing her a ticket!" Either way, the lesson was taught to me again... it wasn't about who was right, it was about appreciating someone for what they do on a daily basis. The night was saved and we headed up the ridiculously high hill and had a great dinner.

We were reminded of the verse in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 "Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

Out on the balcony at my new favorite restaurant!

For Those Who are Struggling: "Jesus, sing over us!"

2011-06-30T20:41:00.000-05:00

Are you tired? Burnt out? Ready to walk out? If so, if you don't know what to do, maybe this song will help you too. I pray that if you are at this place in your life now, that this will touch your heart in some way as you listen to and contemplate the words in this song by Mercy Me. If you can't hear it, turn up the volume, close your eyes, and know that His blood was shed for you!

Do you know that Jesus sings over you? In Zephaniah 3:17 it says, "The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing." When you can't take it anymore, when you are feeling the pain of loss or depression, He is there. Do you ever just feel like throwing your hands in the air because you can't recall the sunshine on your face? Are you ready to walk out of your "situation." I pray that you will stop and climb up in His lap and allow Jesus to sing over you if you are wondering if you will make it through.

Keep singing and praising His name. Even when it hurts, despite your circumstances, no matter where you are, keep singing. Be still and know that He is God! He is everything you need. Do not listen to the world nor conform to the desires of the world. You will make it, for He upholds you with His right hand. You will and can find healing through Jesus alone. Jesus is everything you need, you can not find it in people, places, or things.

This blog was written from my heart and from my own struggles. Sometimes, I want to give up and let go. Ironically, I think that is exactly what He wants me to do, to give it to Him so I am not controlling it anymore. As I write, I have family and friends in mind that are also going through hard times. Know that we are praying for you, praying that you will hold and run to Jesus when you are "stuck." We pray that you will find healing in Jesus. We desire for you to know His amazing love, for He loves you so very much! If you need prayer, please contact us so we can pray specifically and intercede for you.

Love, Amanda and Larry

Cowboy Fellowship in Quito, Ecuador

2011-06-18T13:38:00.000-05:00

Our friend, Pete Pawelek, and Pastor of Cowboy Fellowship in Atascosa County, Texas brought his family and a few church members to Quito to help with a project Amanda works with. Here is one of the videos of the day's work.

Check out the other videos put together by, Tanner, one of the team members on the video tab of our blog.

The Pawelek's Arrive in Quito!

2011-06-08T22:04:00.001-05:00

We are so happy our friends Pete and Abby Pawelek (and their kids Peter and Hadley) arrived safely last night around midnight. Today we went to the church where we will be working with a team from Cowboy Fellowship that will arrive on Friday. It was exciting to see things come together as the men talked "construction." Not only will the team work with the kids from low income families, but they will also help us build a computer lab for the kids and build a home for the guard of the church and his family. We are so excited to see what God has in store. Here are some pictures of how the morning went and how Peter (Pete and Abby's son) was welcomed with open arms by the kids at the church, even though he didn't speak Spanish! It was beautiful to see.

Domenica is our neighbor, she came along and was a great help with Hadley.

The boys (8-9 years old) took Peter (3 years old) under their wing and let him play soccer with them

Peter shares his rocks with Daniel.


Time to play!

Stay tuned to see what God will do this week! Please pray for the safety of the group traveling on Friday.

Adventures in Ecuador...

2011-05-09T17:38:00.000-05:00

Today, what started out as my plan, changed within the first few hours of the morning. I decided to go and check out a guest house that a team will be staying at in June. As I was walking up the hill I saw a dog lying in the shade on the side of the road. I stopped to look at it and noticed that someone had filled a small plastic container with water, but that the dog hadn't touched it.
I tried talking to the dog to see if it was still alive and it barely opened one eye. That's when I noticed its legs. Evidently, it had been hit by a car or something because she was in pretty bad shape. Just seeing her brought tears to my eyes, but I didn't know what to do. I decided to go and look at the house and check on her on my way back.
    When I returned, an older woman had stopped in front of the dog with her trunk opened. Another lady was helping lift the dog into the trunk. I asked, "Is this your dog? Do y'all need any help?" Meaning... with getting the dog in the car. The old lady said, "No, it's not my dog but I am going to bring it to the shelter up the road. Can you go with me? I can't walk well because I have problems with my leg and won't be able to get her out of the car." I'm thinking, "Well, okay... sure." So I hop in the car with this lady named Susanna and we drive off to the Animal Shelter.
   The veterinarian gave the dog 2 shots and said she was going to be okay. From the looks of her legs, she had been hit by a car some time ago. My new friend and I found out that we could donate food to the shelter in order to help the dogs from the street. After she heals, she will be sent to a home where people can come and adopt her.
   So, all in all, it felt really good to help the poor little pup. She probably wouldn't have made it had it not been for Susanna, the lady who took time out of her day to help another out!

For: My Mother-n-Love

2011-05-06T15:46:00.001-05:00

They say it's a rare gift to get a long with your mother-n-law, a diamond in the rough. Well, the good Lord has given me the diamond!

This Mother's Day, I would like to honor my mother-n-love- Christine Ruth Castro. She is someone that has touched my heart beyond what words could ever convey. She accepted me with open arms from the beginning and made me feel part of their family, not just as a member, but as a daughter. She is as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside, and no matter how long we are apart, we can always pick up where we left off.

From shopping for wedding dresses to manicures and pedicures, she is someone that I can share my deepest feelings with. She's always looking out for me too and is very thoughtful. Whether its surprising me with little gifts like Starbuck's coffee, or Christmas decorations for our new home... she makes me feel special. She's the kind of Mom that you look forward to seeing and sharing a cup of coffee with in front of the fireplace on a cold day. The kind that makes you smile when you see her and not want to say goodbye when she leaves.

She's always there to cheer me on and to hold me tight when I feel down. She's sensitive yet strong and has a way of making me feel like I belong. But of all these virtues, the one I admire in her most is her ability to love unconditionally Although she may not be here physically, our hearts are always together. I am always thinking of her and I know that when I need her, she will be here. She told me once that she always wanted a daughter, and we all know that a girl needs a Mama. How wonderful it is when the Lord orchestrates and binds together two women at just the right time.

Many times I wonder what I did to get so lucky to have her in my life. Yet I know that I did nothing, that it is simply God's grace and a gift from Him. (James 1:16-17 "Do not be deceived, my dear brothers. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.") Thank you Mom, for loving me beyond what I could have ever dreamed. The gift the Lord has given me in you is truly priceless. My life is so richly blessed because you are part of it, I love you with all my heart!

Happy Mother's Day Mamacita!
Love,
Amanda

Going Back to My Roots

2011-04-20T13:10:00.000-05:00

We received a call a few weeks ago saying that my sweet little Grandma of almost 91 years didn't have much time left. I knelt down and prayed that the Lord would give me the opportunity to see her one last time. We flew out the next day and gave my Grandma the "biggest surprise of her life!" (She wasn't expecting us to come home).
The next few days were spent in the hospital with my cousins as we listened to Grandma tell us some stories from when she was a child. I learned that she had to wake up at 5 a.m. in order to milk the cows and do the chores before making the 3 mile hike to school! When it was cold or raining my Great-Grandpa would hook up the covered wagon to the 2 mules and carry them to school that way. She shared with us some of her favorite bible verses and it was such an incredible blessing to see her again.
After 2 weeks, my Grandma went to see the Lord. Dad woke me up to tell me and after lying there in bed and thinking about her entrance into heaven, I couldn't help but smile. The day before she slipped into a deep sleep, I had asked her to do me a huge favor when she got to heaven. I asked her to give my Momma a big hug for me. We cried and hugged one another and she said of course she would. I thought, "It sure must have been a nice big party she had up there, and I imagined her and my Mom giving each other the biggest hug ever!"
As Christians, we have the hope and assurance that we will all be with Jesus one day. Death has no grip on us. I feel incredibly blessed to have been able to spend this time with my family and we thank all our friends and family for their prayers and support. You are priceless to us, I could cry just thinking about it.

This was taken at the hospital. I hadn't seen her in over 15 months.

A painting that my Great-Aunt Lois did of the house they lived in as kids.

This is the house where my Grandma grew up in East Texas. Only part of it remains.

The water well where my Papa would come to talk with my Grandma.

Grandma always wanted to be a missionary growing up, and she was to her friends, family, and neighbors. She was a true witness to me and her legacy will live forever in my heart. As my cousin Kim said, "Grandma, we love you. Thank you for taking us to church. And your spankings never hurt!"

The Moses Project

2011-02-25T16:03:00.000-06:00

"If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness. The God and Father of the Lord Jesus, who is to be praised forever, knows that I am not lying." For the Lord has said, "My grace is sufficient for you for my power is made perfect in weakness." (2 Corinthians 11 and 12)

The Lord has been refining me lately. Some days are very difficult and I realize just how weak I am. I would cry out, "Oh Lord, why does it have to be so hard!?" He reminded me that in my weakness, His power rests on me. I decided to try to accept that as best as I could. I'm used to getting things done on my own, but it's much more difficult in a foreign culture and language, hence my total dependence on Him.

In our bible study yesterday, a lady encouraged me to only prepare 80% of my lesson in order to allow God to work. I gave it a try and this is what happened...
Instead of having every minute filled, I simply brought the materials for us to make classroom rules. The Director of the school gathered all the children (around 45) in order to talk with them about what we would be doing today. At the beginning of class, the kids read a verse about how God has chosen them from the beginning. The more she spoke, the more God was pressing something on my heart! I'm really not the motivational speaker, but I knew that God wanted them to hear this. He was asking me to tell them that God had chosen each of them. But what happens when we start fighting with one another? When we start using bad words to hurt our friends, or say lies to get what we want? The enemy wins! And he does not want us to have success in this world, he wants to see us fail. Therefore we have to fight against this, and it starts in the way we treat each other.
Or at least... that's what I think I said:-) The most amazing thing happened, for once, all 45 kids from the ages of 6-15 listened with wide eyes to a hope that they could have and grasp. When I was finished, they started to clap and I was completely amazed at what had just happened. Not by words, but How the Lord touched their hearts.
I'd like to say that the rest of the day went great, but the truth is that we have lots of work to do in this area. The Lord is faithful, I know He is working here. Please pray for us, that the Lord will teach us how to fight, not with weapons of the world, but with the power that demolishes strongholds! In Jesus name!!!
(Below is a short video of where I'm teaching. And if you are reading this on facebook the video is in my vidoes.)

Our New Home

2011-02-01T09:45:00.000-06:00

From the kitchen all the way back to our room.

Well, we finally made it to our new home. Here are some pictures of before and after we fixed it up:-)


Nearly everything in the kitchen was given or loaned to us including the fridge and stove.

Everything in this room was given or loaned to us (except the rug and Callie). A friend helped me make slip covers for the furniture.

After

Before

The Study

Before

Our bedroom

God is so good... the only thing we had to buy was the Bed and dresser (and of course a few small items).

Before

After-The guest bedroom, come see us!

Everything in here was also given or loaned to us.

Callie likes to watch the duck:-)

The entry way into our house

No Internet... WHAT!!!!????!!!!

2011-01-09T10:20:00.001-06:00

As you may know, Larry and I have been house-sitting since we arrived in Quito in September. The family that lives here comes back in 3 days. For the last 3 months we have been painting, cleaning, and getting everything ready at our new place. We are excited about finally moving into our own place after living with other people for the past 2 years! More than ready to say the least.

Everything was going according to plan. Then this week, we found out that we will not be able to get internet out there like we thought. Evidently, there aren't enough outlets (or something like that) and we have to wait for them to install more. And although they tell us that it should be ready by the end of January or mid February, we all know that it could take much longer than that!

I was so discouraged. I just wanted to cry after thinking of all the work that was put into this house, and now... "How are we going to communicate with our supporters? I won't be able to use our magic jack phone anymore to call home. And there's facebook too you know!"

But then, I was reminded that the Lord knew all this before it would happen. Although we feel it is a necessity to have internet, it's really a luxury. This was the first thing we asked about before agreeing to live there, but these things just can't be controlled. I could get all down and upset and sad about not knowing if we will still continue living there if the internet never comes (prolonging the "settled" stage), but for what? It's not like I can control the situation anyway. So, along with everything else right now, I have to give it to God and let Him take care of it for me. I trust that whatever happens, happens because He allowed it to. Oh, how I feel that the Lord is testing my heart once again. Will I give it to Him, or will I worry? This is the choice we all have to make. With His help, I pray I pass:-) And Lord just so you know... I'm expecting a miracle here:-)

Judith Hougen says, "The false self's motivations are based on worry. And such worry is itself a type of prayer, paying homage to the lesser god of capricious circumstance."

Fear is TEMPORARY! The Lord said, "I will teach you the way you should go!"

2010-12-24T16:18:00.000-06:00

The scary cliff

It all started last October at our mission training in Colorado. I saw my husband on the edge of a big cliff (from my perspective) and it scared me. God was dealing with me on so many levels and one of them was to give my husband to the Lord.

That may sound silly, but I struggled with this for a long time. After you lose someone really close to you, you don't want to have to go through it again. For over a year, the Lord has been asking me to place him in His hands. Sure, in my mind I would say that was okay, but my actions didn't match up.

Larry had been wanting a scooter for a long time. "It's cheap on gas and a great way to get around," he would say. Since we are going to be living further away from HCJB starting in January, it would be a cheap vehicle to buy. Plus he always gets motion sickness riding the bus. That's when I began to pray. The Lord gave me this verse in Costa Rica- Psalms 32:8 "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you-the Lord's unfailing love surrounds those who trust in him."

Every time I would talk to people from the "world" I would think NO WAY! But when I was in God's word, He continued to give me confidence and trust in Him. For example, He reminded me that I needed to submit to my husband in EVERYTHING (Ephesians 5). That I could not even add an hour to my life by worrying (Matthew 6) and that God already knows the days ordained for me (Psalms 138). If I TRULY believed the words he was speaking to me, then why wouldn't I place Larry at His feet, knowing that I can not control anything?

I realized that we all have our fears. Some seem silly like "You'll shoot your eye out!" from the movie 'A Christmas Story.' Whether we are venturing out into a new unknown or whether it was a fear that was instilled in us as children, the concept is the same. Fear is temporary because it will only control our thoughts/actions as long as allow it to. Either we will be conquered by fear and stuck in it, or we will conquer the fear.

And let us be reminded that fear is not from God! For we are more than conquerors through him who loved us (Romans 8). The Lord has said, "Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you." So we say with CONFIDENCE, "THE LORD IS MY HELPER, I WILL NOT BE AFRAID. WHAT CAN MAN DO TO ME?"

Soooo, after months of me praying asking for wisdom and guidance, my hubby got his wish:-)

Waiting for Larry to get home

Callie wanted to watch for her Daddy too!

All set and ready to go!

"What in the world!!!"

"How did you? When???

Now, he just needs water proof pants!

I love the name that was written on the side;-)

Merry Christmas!!!

Here's a video of when he walked through the door & his 1st ride down the street.

Dios le pague! That God would pay you back!

2010-12-23T14:13:00.001-06:00

Dios le pague, this is the phrase that we heard many times yesterday from the children. We went with HCJB to share the story of Christmas, sing songs, and give them a little surprise. They were so adorable and everytime a little one said, "Dios le pague" it melted my heart! God had already paid me back by allowing me to serve them in such a small way. I was reminded of the phrase, "It truly is better to give than to receive."

Practicing our Christmas songs in Spanish:-)

Children arriving for the Christmas program

Too cute! Duvall had asked for someone in a red sweatshirt to come down, this little boy took his off and came a runnin'!!!

Preparing the bags of candy for the kids

Sharing the story and birth of Jesus

When she turned around, she had the biggest smile on her face

By far my favorite part ;-)

Preparing a nice hot meal for the kids

What it's all about!


Our group from HCJB as well as the members of the church who hosted us

We pray you have a very blessed Christmas and that we all remember the hope we have in our personal Lord and Savior! God Bless and Merrrrrrrrrry CHRISTmasssssssss!!!!

Our First Thanksgiving in Ecuador!

2010-11-28T09:54:00.002-06:00

See the little head w/mohawk?

We found out about a week before Thanksgiving that my in-laws were going to be able to come celebrate us, we were very excited. For the rest of the week, I called family members to get the recipes for things like chocolate pie, turkey & dressing, and how to bake a turkey! Since we can't get things like pie crusts and cornbread here in Ecuador, I felt like Betty Crocker having to make everything from scratch. Mr. Google was very helpful with the whole process:-)

We had lots of fun making memories in the kitchen & laughing when we saw that the chickens head was also included in the little bag along with its feet!

Found a bag of pecans in their suitcase for the sweet potato souffle!

How many does it take to set up a Christmas tree?

We also made a new tradition of setting up the Christmas tree while the turkey was cooking in the oven. This year we decided to keep it simple and decorated the tree with a pretty ribbon, some home made ornaments, and our prayer cards from other missionaries serving around the world.

We also invited the Ecuadorian family that we will be living with starting in January to partake in our Thanksgiving meal. Maria (the Mom) taught me how to make a delicious sauce for the turkey made out of turkey broth and prunes! Very good!

However, the real fun began after the meal. We taught them how to play card games like Spoons and Uno and they taught us a game or two as well. We ended the night teaching them how to line dance to the song "Boot Scootin' Boogie!" We laughed a lot and had a great time making new memories.

Although we were not able to share Thanksgiving this year with all of our family, we feel extremely blessed to have been able to spend it with friends who are beginning to feel like family! We are so thankful to God for how He has blessed us and for the unending love and support we feel from friends and family back in the States!

We hope that you also had a wonderful time with your loved ones... Gobble Gobble!

There is no god like my God!

2010-11-14T08:08:00.002-06:00

Deuteronomy 4: 35-39 "You were shown these things so that you might know that the Lord is God; besides him there is no other. From heaven he made you hear his voice to discipline you. On earth he showed you his great fire, and you heard his words from out of the fire. Because he loved your forefathers and chose their descendants after them, he brought you out of Egypt by his Presence and his great strength, to drive out before you nations greater and stronger than you and to bring you into their land to give it to you for you inheritance, as it is today. Acknowledge and take to heart this day that the Lord is God in heaven and on earth below. There is no other."

The Lord reminded me this morning that he made me hear his voice in order to discipline me. He has spoken to me through the fire, and I have heard His voice. He has said that although I will walk through the fire, the flames will not set me ablaze. It is true that he has brought us out from our home into another land by his Presence and strength alone. He did it His way so that we could not boast and say that it was done in our strength. So I acknowledge today and say, "There is no god like my God!" Nothing can compare to the love that He has for us.

The Lord has showed me over and over again so that I may trust in Him and his timing. The Lord says, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore, just as Paul says, "I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. Let it be known that I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong!

Lord, I will not bow down to the mountain, I will tell the mountain about my God!

A Super Natural High and Dream Come True!

2010-11-09T16:36:00.001-06:00

Last week, we had the opportunity of a lifetime! I have read and heard many stories about the 5 missionaries that were killed by the Waorani Indians in the 1950's. Their story is one of God's amazing forgiveness and love. We were able to meet these Indians... here's our story.

Macho Women Here We Come!

2010-11-05T20:12:00.001-05:00

My friend, Rebecca, who we met at our mission training last October came to see us in Ecuador. Little did we know what the day would bring! We started off hoping to go to the "Middle of the World." When those plans fell through, we decided to change a tire:-)

The people who we are house-sitting for have a car here that has not been driven for months. It had a flat tire and a dead battery.
First we had to find the jack and where to put it on the car then how to pop off the hub cap. Between the 2 of us we figured it out. We got the tire almost all the way off when it wouldn't come anymore. It was so flat that we had to get another bigger jack to lift it up. The bolts were a little too tight for us to get off so I had the bright idea to jump on the wrench in order to get them to move:-) Fortunately, another friend decided to take us to the tire shop to get it repaired. Unfortunately, on the way we got pulled over by the cops b/c she was driving on the wrong day at the wrong time according to "pico y placa" (a recent law to regulate the flow of traffic in Ecuador).

So a police officer hopped in our car and told us where to go to have her car impounded! We were there another hour as they checked everything thoroughly. Yet there is always a good ending to a good story and that is that Shelley (the driver whose car was impounded) was able to tell the officer about English classes at a local church! She will get her car back tomorrow (after waiting 24 hours and paying a fine).

Afterwards, we rolled the tire (what seemed like all over Quito) to find a taxi. Got home, found someone else to jump start the car and we were off... or so we thought.

Since we don't have a license yet Shelley was going to give the car a spin when we realized we didn't have the registration papers. Needless to say, those plans changed as well and instead we went to buy paint for our new place, all a new experience as we tackled the bus and trolley system. It was a long day, but 3 major things were accomplished: fix car, buy paint, learn how to get to our new home via bus! Hopefully, we can start painting tomorrow, Lord willing!

Orphanage on the Edge of the Jungle

2010-10-19T10:12:00.000-05:00

Last week I was so blessed to join a team from Oakwood Baptist for a week in a small little town called Shell, located right on the edge of the jungle. Some of you may remember the 5 missionaries that were killed by the Waorani Indians in the 1950's... this is the town in which Nate Saint lived and from which he and the others began the ministry to the Indians. God is doing great things in this town and I was blessed to have a small part in it.

The new facility

The children touched my heart beyond words. I felt so much joy while working in the new house that the kids will live in, but I was brought to tears when I had such sweet interactions with the children there. After spending two days hanging base boards and painting, I decided to go hang out with the kids and do whatever they needed me to do. My first assignment was to take the shoes that had been donated and find a pair that would fit the kids that didn't have any.

The first little boy sat down on the floor and waited patiently as I tried different shoes on. Finally, we found a pair that fit and I asked him to stand up to make sure they fit okay. He stood up, looked at his new shoes and then looked at me with a big smile. He then leaned close and wrapped his little arms around my neck and laid his head on my chest and just hugged me for the longest time. It was good that it lasted for more than a second because by this time I had tears flowing down my face that I could not stop. I picked him up and walked downstairs trying to stop crying before I got the next child. I just stood there with him before bringing him back and hugged him tightly. He was so grateful for a pair of "new shoes" that to us are "hand-me downs."

At the current facility

I didn't buy the shoes, nor did I bring them, someone else had. However, God gave me the joy of seeing these little faces light up. I was reminded of how important it is to share our faith. Maybe we won't see the joy of them accepting Jesus, but we have the hope that maybe someday... someone will have that joy just like I experienced. Whether we are planting the seeds or reaping the harvest the command is the same,

"Go therefore, and make disciples of all nations." "For anyone who gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward." Matthew 28: 19 & 10:42

"Thus the saying 'One sows and another reaps' is true. I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor." John 4:37

Please check out this website if you would like more information about this orphanage, how it was started, and how you can play a part in their lives: lacasadefe.org

Part II

2010-09-29T19:06:00.000-05:00

The story continues... After lunch I noticed a group of kids walking and took their picture, they were excited and gave me a big wave for one of the photos. A few minutes later they came up to the radio tower to talk with us. We talked about the weather, Christmas traditions and they asked me to sing a song in English. I had them cracking up as I sang Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer (had a very shiny nose LIKE A LIGHT BULB). Afterwards, they said, "Vamos a jugar." That means we are going to play so I said, "Okay, see you later." They said, "No, let's all go play." So I started off with the kids and they looked at Larry and pointed for him to come too.

This little boy was so cute, his eyes melted my heart!

They took us to a tent that was full of hay and we played little games that had a song about a wolf coming out of the woods to eat us. We didn't understand exactly what was going on, but figured it out when they started chasing us. Then we went outside and Larry learned how to play soccer while I sat in the grass with the girls conversing about whatever topic they could think of.

Afterwards, they asked if I wanted to go down the hill to get some more water for supper. Little did I know that we were going in a truck with 2 trashcans to fill. That took about an hour to fill everything. Since they don't have refrigerators, they basically kill the animal and skin it before it is time to eat. While I was getting water, Larry was learning how to play Ecua-voli with the guys. When we got back, we found out the other 2 missionaries had success in finding the correct "radio chip" for the transmitter.

While they were putting the new chip in, I decided to go sit by the fire where they were cooking so I could warm up. That's when I noticed they were cooking cuy (guinea pig). I asked how they knew when it was done. The lady took the pig off the fire, snapped off the foot with toenails and all and popped it into her mouth. Then she gave me one and said, "Eat it." I just sat there looking at the little toenails in amazement. They were laughing at me and telling me how good it was. I decided to pass and told them I'd wait for the "meaty" part.

We packed everything up and had some good tasting cuy (yes I ate guinea pig). It was a bit tough, but not too bad actually. They kept asking us to stay the night, but we needed to return to Quito. We had a sweet time of prayer thanking God for the repair so they could continue broadcasting to their community and spoke a few words of God's faithfulness over the radio. It was a wonderful ending to a wonderful day!

THE END

Little did we know...

2010-09-28T17:50:00.002-05:00

We woke up at 4 a.m. on Monday morning to make a 4 hour drive to a town called San Guisel Alto, a Quichua community. We left early to avoid traffic and were given a beautiful view of God's creation on the way. We saw the sun rise and set, mountains laden with snow on one side of the road, and beautiful gold flowers on the other side. I sat speechless in the car just completely amazed that we are actually here doing what we have dreamed about for so long.

We stopped at a little cafe for breakfast on the way just long enough to order some coffee, eggs, and enough time to stretch our legs. We reached our destination around 9:30 a.m. and were eager to get to work. However, the people thought we would be tired from our trip and wanted us to come sit down, where they served us again! It had only been about an hour since we had eaten, but it would have been rude to refuse, so we ate again:-) The meal consisted of a hot drink, soup, and bread with cheese.

We then headed to the tower to see what needed to be fixed. That's when Tim (an HCJB missionary) gave Larry a belt and asked him to climb the tower with him so they could fix the frequency. After watching for some time and praying, I decided to go and help the ladies with the food.

Most of the women understood Spanish (although they mostly speak Quichua) and allowed me to peel and chop vegetables with them. They were preparing lots of food for the next day's service. I sat there smiling and thinking of the time that my Mom and my Aunt Debbie had a potato peeling contest right there in the kitchen. Mom had a knife and my aunt had a potato peeler. I sat there wishing I had a potato peeler, but did just fine with Larry's pocket knife:-)

While I was peeling, I heard Tim yell from the top of the tower, "We need the measuring tape!" I didn't know if he was talking to me or to Shelly (another missionary) so I went to check it out. Shelly had the tape in her hands and asked if one of the guys would climb up. He said he was afraid to do it so she asked if I would go. I put the tape in my pocket and started up the tower. I decided not to look up or down and just kept saying, "I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me!" What a beautiful view it was from the top. I could see all the mountains that looked like a patch work quilt and mountains in the distance that were covered with snow. I stopped for a moment to rest and take it all in and just could not believe that I was on this tower seeing all this! Little did we know we would be doing that when we woke up, but I didn't dare take my camera out!

There is much more to share, this all happened before lunch, but I will have to write more tomorrow. So for now... TO BE CONTINUED!

100 Birthday Gifts from God?!?!?!

2010-09-14T07:49:00.000-05:00

Sunday was my birthday... 31 years young! I had no idea the surprise that would be waiting for me as the day passed by. Larry had taken me shopping the night before and the morning was nice and relaxing as my hubby made me breakfast and did the dishes. But the best was yet to come!

     We had received an e-mail from some missionaries that said they were having a "free garage sale." I thought the place would be packed, but when we arrived there were only a few people there. My friend kept telling me to get whatever we needed. Since we didn't ship anything from the States, we pretty much needed everything! I didn't want to take it all, so I just kept walking around the apartment looking at things here and there. A few families came and went, and after a while we were the only ones there. That's when my friend just started putting things to the side. She would say, "Do you know what this is? You missed this! Please, take it!" Before long we had a corner of the room with things like: pots and pans, dishes, glasses, vacuum cleaner, clothes, too many things to name here. They even gave us their speakers that hook up to an ipod!

     When we got home and put everything on the table, I just shook my head in amazement! I told Larry, "And I didn't think I would have any birthday presents to unwrap!" That is the kind of God we serve! We have an inheritance from our heavenly Father that far exceeds what we could ever imagine. Larry and I know that they were gifts from our Maker and we praise Him for how He has provided!

Later that day we enjoyed a nice Italian dinner at a little cozy restaurant where Larry tried "rabbit" for the first time! It reminded us of turkey... since turkey is so expensive, maybe we will have rabbit for thanksgiving:-)

We made it!!!

2010-09-03T09:35:00.000-05:00

Thank you to all who were praying for us on Wednesday! I have to say, I felt so calm and at peace that everything would work out okay with getting all 3 of us to Ecuador. Callie did great and was eager to give everyone kisses when she got out of her cage. We even had a welcoming party to greet us when we walked out of the gate at the airport.

When we got to our "temporary" home (we are house-sitting until January) we gave thanks to God for such a smooth trip. We started the process in October of 2006 and arrived in Ecuador September 1st, 2010. It has been a process, and we are so thankful for His faithfulness.

We were able to have dinner with our big brother and sister on Wednesday and played a game called "Quelf." Let's just say that "it didn't take long to break the ice." Ralph (our big brother) had to tap dance while telling an embarrasing story and before the night was over we all had to go by nicknames like "marshmallow shmunchkin', kissy pants, pookey, and punkin' doodle."

Thursday we had fun grocery shopping and noticed they have much more to choose from here than in Costa Rica. I (Amanda) stood in the shampoo/conditioner aisle forever b/c there were just too many choices!

The first thing you notice in Ecuador is that the people seem much shorter and everyone wears jackets, scarves, and warm boots. I wasn't quite prepared for that! But we were able to make a big pot of taco soup and break in the fireplace! As the sun was going down, the clouds parted and for the first time, we saw a huge snow-capped volcano outside our window. It is beautiful here and we are eager to get to work!

Memories of Costa Rica

2010-08-31T15:30:00.000-05:00

We leave for Quito tomorrow morning. It is amazing to look back at the journey and the people who have been faithful to God and partnered with us. We will look back on the past eight months we spent in Costa Rica and know God had us here for more than just to learn Spanish. So we put together a little video slide show of all the great memories God has given us.

"Let the little children come to me." -Jesus

2010-08-26T15:27:00.000-05:00

When I think about the kids who do not have a home, something begins to stir in my heart. When I hear about these places, my heart begins to beat faster. And when I go and visit these places, I have a strong peace and assurance that the Lord is doing something!
Larry and I recently visited 2 different children's homes in Coronado Costa Rica. One is in the process of being built, and the other one already had children living there. I took a walk outside and just spent some time soaking it all in. I have had so many thoughts of what I imagine to be "amazing!" It looks something like this:

A place where children can call home. Somewhere in the mountains, out of the hussle and bussle of life-where they are free to be kids. A place to have a garden and live off the land. Somewhere that may have a river or stream near by, and who knows... maybe even a school!

When we visited the 2nd home, it pretty much matched the above description. A few weeks ago the Lord showed me this verse in Isaiah: "New things I declare; before they spring into being I announce them to you."
I am so excited to see what the Lord has in store for us and to be a part of HIStory!

The Trail...

2010-08-22T17:12:00.000-05:00

On a beautiful sunny day a little boy went out for hike with his father. He had everything he needed: water, sack lunch, good shoes, and a small flashlight (just in case). The boy and his father started heading up the mountain with the father leading the way and the boy following close behind. The boy didn't want to make any mistakes and didn't want to get hurt, so he was careful to watch the path, keep his head down, and follow his father.
As they marched up the mountain the boy made sure to keep his eyes on the path and continue going even though he was getting a little tired. They passed by some beautiful birds making their homes high in the trees. A little fox even ran across the path in front of them. They continued up the mountain on this glorious day and could marvel at the scenery below.
The boy's father asked if he wanted to stop and rest awhile. But the boy said, "No. I want to keep going." Even though he was becoming more sluggish he wanted to press on toward the top and show his father that he could do it. As the morning went on the young boy became exhausted, but he never took his eyes off the path because he didn't want to slip and get hurt or disappoint his father.
Finally, he was so tired he had to ask his father, "How much farther?" And his father said, "About ten feet." The boy then looked up for the first time during the hike and saw how close they were to the top. He was excited and filled with joy because he made it up the mountain. He looked and saw what a beautiful day it was and the marvelous nature around him.
But then he realized what he had missed along the path to the top. He never looked up from the trail. He didn't stop to rest and take in the beauty before him. While he thought it was good to keep his eyes on the path, keep his head down and keep marching, he was sad because he didn't take a moment to enjoy the world around him.

I thought about this after Amanda and I went on a little hike recently. I was watching the trail because I didn't want to trip on a rock and twist my ankle as I am prone to doing. But I realized I need to look up once in a while and take in what is going on around me, look back on where I have been, and enjoy the beauty God has created. I am also very thankful God added the day of rest so we can reflect on what He is doing in our lives.
(Copyright Larry's Fables®) Ha ha!

God's Promises to Us

2010-08-12T12:32:00.000-05:00

Today was one of the hardest days yet one of the best days for me since we have been here. In our language class, we spent 2 hours sharing verses from God's Word and His promises over one another. It was such a beautiful and encouraging time. Some may say, that it is not possible to make such strong relationships in such a short time (3 months). But as we closed in prayer, we were all in tears as we prayed, wept, and rejoiced for one another. My heart aches, yet rejoices. To know that my classmates, my friends are also going to share God's love with those who do not know it... is exciting! Yet it is painful. However, we will move ahead, bold and confident, that God will accomplish His purposes through those that love Him! We will continue to run this race as we wait for the next step! And although it is difficult now, we look forward to what God has in store!

Maybe some of these promises will encourage you as well:

Psalms 37:4 "Delight yourself in the Lord; and he will give you the desires of your heart."

Exodus 23:20 "See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared."

Psalms 32:8 "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you."

This is my favorite. It was what God used to speak to my heart and encourage me this morning. To Him be all the glory! In Jesus name!

Isaiah 42: 6-9 "I the Lord have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles, to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness.
"I am the Lord; that is my name! I will not give my glory to another or my praise to idols. See the former things have taken place, and new things I declare; before they spring into being I announce them to you."

Waiting with expectation to see God fulfill His promises,
Amanda

A Mighty Fortress is our God!

2010-07-17T17:03:00.019-05:00

I came to Costa Rica 7 months ago wanting to fly through language school so we could get to Ecuador. God has been teaching me so much here and I am reminded just how small I am and how BIG God is! Whether facing trials and frustrations, or experiencing great joy and happiness... God has not changed, but my perspective has.

He taught me how to look inside myself, how to face trials head on. My tendency of course was to RUN! Isn't that what we all want to do when we get scared? Yet He is patient with me and taught me that I could find my strength in Him for everything, even the things that I was scared to do. Whether I was in the pit or on the mountain top, whether I was looking my fears in the face or weeping like a child, God's grace was more than enough. As I look forward to what God has in store, I will always cherish this time in Costa Rica.

These are some pictures that remind me about the amazing, creative, powerful and loving God that we serve! If you don't know this God... won't you please ask me about Him? I would love to share about the price He paid so that you could live with HIM for eternity. He is jealous for you!

Lil' monkey finds a snack... Enjoying his lil' snack... "What? Where'd it all go?!"

4th of July in Costa Rica

2010-07-06T18:48:00.011-05:00

This was our first big holiday that we celebrated out of the U.S. I can not tell you how excited I was to smell hamburgers and hot dogs on the grill! We are currently house sitting for a family that returned to the States for a few weeks, so we had the ideal place to host a party. It was great to relax with other families and have fun playing card games. The best part was being able to celebrate the freedom we have with other missionaries who have become like family.

We are so thankful to have the opportunity to be here learning Spanish before we head to Ecuador. It's hard to believe that we only have less than 2 months before we finally arrive! God is teaching me (Amanda) so much right now. I have been attending a ladies bible study called the "Inheritance" by Beth Moore. It's been a blessing to hear some good dynamic teaching... in English:-) and to share our trials and heart with other women. What a privilege to intercede for others and see God do amazing things in the lives of those around us. Just yesterday I was encouraged by this verse:

Hebrews 6:10-12 "God is not unjust, he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised."

How encouraging to remember that we must not only have "faith" but "patience" as well. For our God is faithful and just, and we will inherit what He has promised us!!!

Translation

2010-06-08T16:31:00.007-05:00

About 12 years ago I remember walking through the quad at Southwest Texas State University and thinking, "It would be so cool if I could major in Spanish, then maybe one day I could translate while on mission trips!" I have to say, the idea seemed really neat because not only could I teach something I was passionate about, but I'd learn another language in the process!

Last Thursday, they asked the students in our class if anyone would be willing to translate for our Academic Director during chapel. Without much thought I said, "Yo quiero hacerlo!" "I want to do it!" I was excited at first... until I went home and really thought about what I just volunteered myself to do. I mean what was I thinking? What if I didn't know a word or phrase? What if I made a fool of myself? Was I really ready for this? For a while I played with the idea of returning on Monday and telling my teacher that I had changed my mind and to find someone else.

But that's just where the enemy wants to keep us isn't it? In a place that is "safe" that way we don't experience "failure" or "embarrassment." The chance that I would mess up and make a fool of myself was possible, that was somewhat true. But what if, just what if I could do it? After all, I serve a pretty big God. He reminded me that it wasn't about me, but about what He was doing in me. So I decided to go for it. Might as well throw myself in the fire now with people who understand the difficulties of mastering another language!

It was by far one of the best experiences since I've been here! It's when we take the step of faith to do something we are afraid to do, in order to experience the awesome power of our Lord and Savior! Whether you are jumping out of a plane sky diving, trying to raise funds to go on the mission field, or walking into an unknown situation we can know this... "God is with us! He will never leave nor forsake us! When we lack the wisdom, or resources, or words-He provides the way!" Once again, the hardest part was not the "translation" (it was actually kind of fun)! The hardest part was getting over the hump!

So, I'm here to say, "Let's do that again!" Thank you Jesus that even though I didn't know every word or phrase, that you were with me as you always are! For your honor and glory!

We Hit the Jackpot!!!

2010-05-21T17:30:00.006-05:00

This trimester I was put "in charge" of the ministry in La Carpio, mainly b/c almost everyone that was here last trimester left! Our leader, Lalo, who works with the people in La Carpio encouraged me to not have a "plan." What? No plan? That's crazy! But the more I thought and prayed, the more I was convinced that that was exactly what God wanted me to do.

It sounds easy. But all the "what if's" were entering my mind. What if no one shows up. What if they are bored. What if they think I am totally unorganized! It was a struggle for me to just go and wait for God to do HIS thing. I highlighted these verses in my bible the morning we were to go and was encouraged by some verses in Psalms 27:
8 "My heart says of you, "Seek his face!" Your face Lord, I will seek.
11 "Teach me your way, O Lord; lead me in a straight path."
13 "I am still confident of this: I will see goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. WAIT for the Lord; be strong and take heart and WAIT for the Lord."

So, I knew I needed to wait, but I have to say, I was a little nervous. I work with the women making jewelery and we didn't have enough materials to really do anything. I had no idea what we would do for 2 and a 1/2 hours, but was interested in seeing what would happen. When we got there, the ladies came and we tried to make some jewelery and kept coming up with things we needed, so we decided to make a list. We wrote: 3 scissors, hot glue guns, hot glue sticks, ziploc bags, more beads, earring "palitos" (what we put the beads on).

I thought, well let me just go look in the closet and see if I can find scissors. (It's basically a bunch of plastic containers filled with stuff that mission teams have left when they come down for mission trips). The first box I looked in I found a big ziploc bag of scissors! So I went back to see what else was there. That's when I came across a box filled, and I mean filled with wooden beads, colored beads, seashells, etc. that already had holes in them and everything!!!! We couldn't believe it! The ladies were so excited and immediately started sorting everything, but we needed bags to put them into. So, I thought "Might as well try and see if I can find some bags in there." That is when I found another bin filled with 5 boxes of ziploc bags in all sizes, hot glue guns with the sticks and all kind of string to make necklaces!!!!! Holy Moly we hit the jackpot!!!! We were all laughing and praising God for how He provided in ways beyond my imagination! We also thought how funny it was that we made the list first and how God was just answering every request we had. Lalo came in and asked us to write MONEY on the list:-)

Needless to say, I got a little teary eyed as I was in the closet giving thanks to an Almighty, powerful, and loving God. It was as if we had stumbled upon the biggest treasure chest that brought all kinds of new and different ideas as well! It was so cool! Thanks Lord for showing me how to let go and be a part of what you are doing!

Don't give up!

2010-05-01T21:03:00.003-05:00

Today, I woke up and was excited to talk with my family on Skype. It was my Grandma's 90th birthday and everyone was going to my cousin Shanna's house for the big party. We had been planning for about a month to talk via computer, however, little did we know that when we woke up we would not have any internet!
Not to worry, we still have time to get back home is what I told Larry (we were house sitting for another couple a few miles down the road). I sent Larry to get a taxi, and after what seemed like forever, he came back unable to get one. But he had a number of a taxi driver, so I called it and the operator assured me that the taxi driver would be there within 5 minutes
We brought everything outside and waited in the driveway for over 20 minutes. Frustrated, I went back inside to call and see what happened. She said that the driver couldn't find the house, and was on another run, so I should call her back in 10 minutes! By this time, I'm completely frustrated and wondering, "Lady, why would I call you again... don't you realize I have a birthday party to get to"(on Skype!) So I sat on the steps, put my head on my arms, and the tears started flowing. Two hours had already passed and I figured everyone would be leaving soon. On any other day, the internet would work, why of all days does the internet not work nor can we find a taxi?
So, I'm feeling pretty bad and having my little pity party when I decide to try one more time to find a taxi. My Mom used to always say, "You can just get glad in the same boat you got mad in." So I marched up the hill, around the corners, and down to the main street while wiping the mascara from under my eyes. And finally, after many taxis passed me by, one stopped. I was a little unsure though when he had to turn the car off to check his engine... seriously!?
But,we made it just in the nick of time, about 15 minutes before everyone started heading out. Although the internet has a mind of its own, I'm thankful to have it, even if it is sparatic!
It was great and the day was saved... well until Callie ate Larry's manicotti right off his plate:-)

So far...

2010-04-16T16:06:00.004-05:00

Daddy, "Will You Dance With Me?"

2010-03-12T05:40:00.004-06:00

As a little girl, I used to practice dancing with my Dad in the living room. We would turn some music on, and I would stand on his feet as he twirled me around the room. I remember telling him, "I can't wait until I'm big and get married! We will dance this way at my wedding!"

Yet as the years passed I learned how to dance on my own. I can't tell you how many times over the years I have heard the phrase, "Amanda, will you let me lead?" My tendency was to lead, even on the dance floor. After all, I suppose I wanted to dance my way! It's a picture God has been teaching me over and over...that I am not the one who needs to think about leading the dance. It is me who makes it harder than it needs to be. In reality, all I need to do is come. I just need to come to Him. He is the one who wraps his arms around me, sets my feet on his, and leads the dance. He is the one who reveals Himself to those who do not know Him.

Living in Costa Rica has reminded me of this lesson. There are times when something happens and I feel that I need to say something. For me, it is often harder to hold my tongue than to say what I really want! I put the pressure on myself to make a change in someone else. Yet God is so good and patient with me. He tells me to cast all my cares and burdens on Him and that He will give me rest. God is saying, "Amanda, come to me. Lay your head on my chest. Rest in me...and enjoy the dance!" I've seen the power He has to meet people where they are, and I continue to stand amazed of the mighty and powerful God I serve! Thank you Lord for being gentle with me:-)

God Opens Doors

2010-03-05T11:48:00.014-06:00

"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened." - Jesus

We came to Costa Rica to learn Spanish, we didn't know what else God had in store for us here other than that. But we believe that He continues to teach and mold us even while we are learning. I have to say, that the road has not been "easy." There have been many obstacles that have come our way and we have to be careful to listen to the voice of God rather than the lies of the enemy. It is obvious that the enemy does not want us working here, yet God is the only one that can give us the strength to persevere. We continue to learn and must remember to keep our eyes fixed on Him.

Both Larry and I are involved with a ministry called AMCA. Locals come once a week to practice their English. We teach for an hour then have a small break with coffee and cookies. Afterwards, the people learn a praise song in English and hear a devotional in their native tongue. It has been so neat to work with them. One lady told me this week, "We are so lucky to have 3 teachers in our class!" The Lord has opened doors for me (Amanda) to share my testimony and pray with a woman in our class each time class is over.

We have also been able to go to a very poor part of Costa Rica called La Carpio. Ironically, one of our home churches from college was just there last week! One of the things they did was install an air conditioner in the computer room where Larry works with the kids. Without the a/c, it literally feels like a sauna! Thanks Oakwood! Larry is able to teach children basic skills for the computer like: how to use a mouse, how to type, and other basic things. For many of these kids it's the first time they have ever used a computer. (He gets good practice with one of the kids that lives with us (3rd pic).

While Larry works with the guys, I work with the women. We teach them how to make jewelry and also about the "esperanza" (hope) they can have in Jesus. We have only been a few times, but it is so fun to see the girls waiting for us as we arrive each week. I have enjoyed playing and loving on them. The women that come range from 5 to 55 years old. They bless me each week!

We want to thank you for your prayers, support, and encouragement. We wouldn't be here without them! Thank you for being the Hands and Feet of Jesus with us! Please continue to pray for us as we pray for you!

Learning the Heart of God While Leaning on the Everlasting Arms!

2010-02-21T11:01:00.008-06:00

The past 2 weeks have been difficult to say the least. We have had many distractions and it felt like we were on a roller coaster-being tossed back and forth by the wind. At the time it was hard to see what God was doing through it all. Honestly, I just wanted to be on the "other side already!"
It wasn't until I went to spend "quality" time with God that I got an answer. The whole time, I was focusing on what "I" wanted, and on my fears. When I sat and listened, God reminded me that even though I am going through the fire that "I will not be burned, that He is my protector." I went to a luncheon that day as well and was challenged with these questions: "What voice are we listening too?" Are we listening to ourselves...what we want? Are we listening to the world...and all it has to offer? Are we listening to the lies of the enemy? Or, are we listening to the voice of God? Listen to the response of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abendnego when they refused to bow down to King Nebuchadnezzar or the gods he served: Daniel 3:16-18 "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But if he does not, we want you to know, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up."
That day on my walk home, I decided in my heart to put my trust in God. That I would not be afraid of the things that I could not control. That although I am surrounded on every side, that I would not be moved and that I would keep my eyes fixed on HIM! What an overwhelming peace that came over me, as if Jesus had linked His arms into mine on both sides. As if He were right there beside me. I felt his presence and I smiled all the way home.
That night I went to teach English classes at the AMCA house. Before we left, a woman in my class came and asked me questions regarding her faith in God. I was able to talk with her about the words God had spoken to me just hours before and pray with her. And before we left that evening, we sang the song, "Leaning on the Everlasting Arms." What an amazing work God does, when we are willing to stop and listen. We praise Him and give Him all the glory and honor. He is working in not only our hearts, but in the hearts of many Costa Ricans!
And if you aren't sure what happened to Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego...keep reading! "Nebuchadnezzar was furious with them. He ordered the furnace heated 7 times hotter than usual and commanded some of the strongest soldiers in his army to tie them up and throw them into the blazing furnace. The furnace was so hot that the flames of the fire killed the soldiers who had taken them up. Then the King leaped to his feet in amazement and asked his advisers, "Weren't there 3 men that we tied up and threw into the fire?" They replied, "Certainly, O king." He said, "Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a song of the gods."

Mas de Ti! (English translation below)

2010-02-01T17:37:00.007-06:00

Senor, como es que tu eres tan bueno para mi? No he hecho nada para recibir su amor, ni puedo hacer nada para obtenerlo. Tu me amas porque tu eres amor. Quiero caerme mas profundo en tus brazos, quiero conocerte mas. Padre, anhelo sentir tu abrazo. Ningunos de los otros idolos se comparan a ti! Me restauras y refrescas mi alma. Senor mi copa esta rebosando con tu gracia. Padre, te pido que tu reveles a ti mismo a los demas que no te conocen. Senor, tu has roto mis cadenas, has fijado mis pies en una roca, y sigue mostrandome tu bondad y fidelidad. Padre, quiero ser audaz para ti! Usame Senor, para que a las otras personas te conozcan! Por tu gracia Senor, por tu gracia!

Lord, how is it that you are so good to me? I have done nothing to deserve your love nor can I do anything to obtain it. You love me because you are love. I want to fall deeper into your arms, I want to know you more. Father, I yearn to feel your embrace! No other gods compare to you! You restore me and refresh my soul. Lord, my cup overflows with your grace. Father, I pray that you will reveal yourself to the ones who do not know you! Lord you have broken my chains, set my feet on a rock, and continue to show me your goodness and faithfulness. Father, may I be bold for you! Use me Father, so that others will come to know you! By your grace Lord, by your grace!

Learning the Ropes

2010-01-20T19:41:00.008-06:00

Highlights from the past 2 weeks:

1) Learned where to buy groceries, and it's not at the Costa Rican "Wal-Mart!" We found that everything is pretty expensive there!

2) Found a church near our house that we have really enjoyed attending. Last week we heard missionaries speak from Israel and participated in a Hebrew song and dance!

3) Callie, our dog, is adjusting well and loves playing with the kiddos.

4) We've learned that the bag of rice here with corn kernels isn't for humans to eat...it's for chickens:-)

5) Also, that "manana (tomorrow)" doesn't really mean tomorrow...it will just happen when it happens.

6) Never show up on time, b/c everyone will be late according to "Americans."

7) Someone told me yesterday that we are like "married singles." We take that as a compliment, b/c the singles have invited us to do the "single" activities. Oh, and we are considered to be a "young married couple'" even though we've been married for 6 1/2 years! :-)

8) We love our Tico family, they have made it a family project to help us learn the language!

9)Last but not least, don't try to return something, it takes FOREVER!

Church Service...Tico Way!

2010-01-11T16:47:00.004-06:00

We went to our first church service with out Tico family yesterday. The people were very friendly and so many came to introduce themselves to us. Needless to say, service here is different than back home. Like how it lasted for 2 hours:-) But we really enjoyed every bit of it, and got most of what the service was about: prayer!

I couldn't help but think of my church back in Houston and how they were worshiping the same time we were. Oh how I loved the worship time at UBC and all the people there! Yet as the songs played, I began to feel right at home. It reminded me so much of the church I served at one summer in Del Rio. There really wasn't a time schedule. It was such a beautiful time to see people worship in different ways. As the cars buzzed by outside, I could feel God's presence, like it just swept in with the rush of the cool breeze. My heart was touched to see the love the people had for one another. How they didn't hold back their emotions, and how they worshiped an Almighty God! It brought tears to my eyes to know that I could still experience Him in worship despite that it is in a different culture, language, or country! Oh how the Lord goes beyond what we could have imagined and gives us more than we ever thought to ask! We praise Him for the place we have to live, the family who has taken us in, and for the people who are supporting us that makes it all possible! We love you!

Home Sweet Home!

2010-01-06T20:40:00.007-06:00

Llegamos a Costa Rica! We made it to Costa Rica! First, thank you so much for your prayers, we were so encouraged to hear of all the people praying. We could not have asked for a "smoother" trip!

So far we have been able to go to a grocery store, where I (Amanda) held up the line, and the checker must have felt bad because he decided to give me the store discount instead of waiting for the manager to come:-) I was so thankful!

Today, we went to our first day of orientation at school. We both had to take written and oral exams and learned a lot about the culture! For instance, in Costa Rica you shouldn't walk around bare foot in the house!

The other 3 dogs are warming up to Callie gradually. She has learned how to bust open the door of her crate and climb in bed with us the last 2 nights at 1 a.m.! Last night, our Tican mother showed us where to pick limes from the tree outside and told us that we will have great big juicy mangoes in a few months to eat from the tree! How cool is that!?!? Afterwards, we played a little game of kickball in the street with the 3 kids that live here...and the dogs!

All is well, gracias a Dios! Attached is a video of our apartamento:-) (If you are a facebook friend, you may have already seen it).

Unpacking?!?!?!?!

2009-12-23T16:36:00.004-06:00

Larry and I have spent the last 2 weeks going through "stuff" deciding what goes and what stays. And then today, we unpacked it all and put it back in the shed!

Last night we were watching the movie "A Nativity Story." I was so inspired by Mary and all that she must have gone through, things that I don't normally think about. I mean, she was pretty brave, to get on a donkey and travel 100 miles to Bethlehem...while pregnant! Wow! After the movie I went and told Larry that I had been thinking about something during the movie. How Joesph and Mary took things they needed (food, money, water, etc.) In the movie, while they are looking for a place to stay, Mary cries out, "Lord! Will you not provide a place for us?!" And then He did!

It got me thinking..."Why in the world are we even bringing all this stuff?" Boxes of pots, pans, pictures, stuff we can get in Ecuador." Larry got this little smile on his face and was quiet. He said, "Well, I've been praying that God would somehow make you want to take less stuff...but I didn't think you were going to go this far!"

We decided to pray together about what we should do. I could hardly sleep, I was so excited about the idea of not bringing it all! I woke up and asked God this morning to show me if this was right. I didn't want it to be an emotional feeling.

While at the Vet's office I was holding some papers Larry had used to write notes on the back, when I see an article by Stormie Omartian called, "Knowing How to Pack for the Wilderness!" I read it, and start laughing out loud right there in the office. I'm actually laughing so much, I'm crying! I ask, "Babe, did you put this in here for me to see?" He says, "No, I don't even know what it is. I took notes on it a couple of weeks ago b/c it was the only paper I could find." I laugh again and know that we are supposed to take less.

One paragraph stuck out from the article: "When traveling in the wilderness, learn to seek the abundance of the moment. Ask God to open your eyes to all the blessings he has for you there. Oh, and remember to pack lightly. I'd say take the Word of God, a measure of patience, a garment of praise, a pair of knee pads for those fervent prayer times, and an open vessel to hold the living water God is going to pour out on you. That's all you can manage on that path, anyway-especially in the kind of light you're going to have."

I was still laughing when I got in the car. Lord, you are cracking me up! I asked you to let me know, and out of nowhere here is this guide for "packing for the wilderness!" Lord, forgive us for going through the motions and packing without really asking you what you want us to do/bring. What a weight lifted! I'm so excited to be traveling light! I'm so excited to trust you through the wilderness for everything we need!

Declaring the Wonders of His Love!!!

2009-12-13T18:57:00.017-06:00

Saturday night was AMAZING! Larry and I are so thankful to be able to share the celebration with our church, family, and friends! It was a beautiful ceremony that I will cherish in my heart forever. I wanted to share about what God had been teaching me from the beginning of our journey in which He helped me realize just hours before the service.

When we first started raising our support, it was easy to get discouraged. After many months, I cried out to God asking for help because it just wasn't going as quickly as I would have liked it to:-) God gave me this verse in Malachi "Test me in this, says the Lord Almighty and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it!"
That verse, at that time, gave me hope. The hope that I needed to keep pushing forward and to not worry about how or when it would happen. I immediately equated "blessing" with "reaching our goal." But as I read more, I realized that it went deeper than that!

It was during those months, when we visited with churches, bible study classes, family, and friends that Larry and I became so encouraged. Yes, we were excited when we received another prayer partner or supporter. Our hearts would be filled with so much joy! But the one thing that stuck out the most was this- it was the love that God's people had for one another and the love they had for people they did not even know! To see God working in so many places, in so many ways was such a beautiful thing to witness!

Our prayer was this: (1) That God would receive ALL the glory for what He had done, and (2) that people would be able to see the love that God has for them. In Romans it says, "You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us"

People have asked if our service was what we had hoped it would be. I smile and say, "It was more beautiful than I could have ever imagined!" God was there, He was working, and His spirit filled the chapel at University Baptist Church!

So we will leave EXPECTING GOD TO DO GREAT THINGS, BELIEVING THAT GOD WILL ACCOMPLISH HIS WILL AND HIS PURPOSE! Thanks to all of you who have come along this journey with us and partnered in what God is doing around the world! We love you!

2009-12-04T10:53:00.002-06:00

In Prince Caspian, part of C.S. Lewis's Narnnia Chronicles, the children, Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy all find themselves in Narnia after a long absence. Aslan, the great king and lion, is nowhere to be seen. Lucy, the youngest of the children, particularly aches to see him. One night she wakes to a great stirring in the forest, and to a voice calling her. While the other children sleep, she ventures forth through the woods and into a clearing. Here's what happens:

A circle of grass, smooth as a lawn, met her eyes, with dark trees dancing all around it. And then - oh joy! For he was there: the huge Lion, shining white in the moonlight, with his huge black shadow underneath him.
But for the movement of his tail he might have been a stone lion, but Lucy never thought that. She never stopped to think whether he was a friendly lion or not. She rushed to him. She felt her heart would burst if she lost a moment. And the next thing she knew was that she was kissing him and putting her arms as far around his neck as she could and burying her face in the beautiful rich silkiness of his mane.

Aslan, Aslan. Dear Aslan, "sobbed Lucy. "At last."

The great beast rolled over on his side so that Lucy fell, half sitting and half lying between his front paws. He bent forward and just touched her nose with his tongue. His warm breath came all around her. She gazed up into the large wise face.

"Welcome, child, " he said.
"Aslan," said Lucy, "you're bigger."
"That is because you are older, little one," answered he.
"Not because you are?"
"I am not. But every year you grow, you will find me bigger."

When I heard this being read during our training, I could relate so much with Lucy. What a beautiful picture of how God waits for us to come to Him and how He desires to have a relationship with us. The more we know Him and see Him at work, the bigger He becomes!

Going through the fire

2009-11-10T21:36:00.006-06:00

I really didn't know what to expect when we got here. Someone told me I would feel "raw." I now know what that means...I call it the meat grinder! Some days were so intense, you just wanted it to end. I mean, could I cry anymore?! The pain was real and sometimes snuck up on us when we least expected it. But through it all, we feel so blessed to have learned what we did when we did.

I didn't want to get close to the other missionaries at first, after all, we'd only be here for 3 weeks anyway. God showed me that He had different plans, and our friendships grew quickly. I wondered though why I was going through this "pain." I also felt that I needed to spend time being "still" before Him. I sat in the lounge one morning, gazing into the fireplace, and it was as if God whispered, "Do you see the logs?"
"Yes," I answered.
"What do you notice about them?"
"That although they are surrounded by flames, they are not burning (gas fireplace)."

It took a few days, but I slowly became okay with going through the fire if He wanted me to. I knew that He would not let me get burned. I knew that it would be hard, but that he would show me things in the fire that revealed who I really was and what didn't belong. God did show up, He carried me the whole way through. I look forward to what lies ahead. And as I look back, I thank and I praise Him for taking me through the fire. May He receive all the Glory!

Mr. Feelings

2009-10-27T14:11:00.005-05:00

The other day I had several rubber bands wrapped around me while I was blindfolded. This may take a little bit of explaining. During one of our training sessions I volunteered for an exercise. I had no idea what was about to happen all I knew was I had to be able to endure a little bit of pain.
In our session we were talking about how our expectations and our desires when we get to the field can be in conflict, and how that will affect our feelings. Enter Mr. Feelings... I was blindfolded and several people were called up to hold on to one side of these large rubber bands. On different sides you have your expectations vs. reality, your desires, others expectations, and your attitude. All of these things can come in conflict and you may feel pulled in several directions. The pain part is when these "rubber bands" are pulled tight and something happens to cause pain or joy I got a little "pop". Part of the point is to allow yourself to feel both the good and bad, and not insulate yourself from your feelings.
We also need to learn how to handle these feelings, and try to keep our expectations close to reality. We are learning so much here at our training in Colorado and will continue to share more. Thank you all for your prayers and support.

SNOW!

2009-10-21T06:42:00.002-05:00

I didn't want to get out of bed this morning...until I remembered that it could have snowed over night. I jumped out of bed and ran to the window. And to my enjoyment, saw everything covered in white. I now sit with a fire dancing in the fireplace to my right and the door with the snow outside to my left. I'm looking forward to going out and taking pictures, when the sun comes up. There are many Texans here with kids, so it should be a site to see!

If I take responsibility for my learning, I will...

2009-10-20T17:23:00.003-05:00

That was the question posed to us this morning. Something God has been teaching me this year through people in my life, my job, and family is this...

God is more interested in me glorifying and loving Him, than me "doing" something for Him. With such busy lives, it is easy to get lost in the rush of it all. And somewhere, in the back of your mind, you know that there is more to it than this. But once we start flying around like little hummingbirds, we forget what it was like to soar on the wings of an eagle. We allow life to take over, and so easily lose perspective or we just get another perspective. But am I hungry? Am I thirsty for more of God? When it comes down to it, I have to take responsibility for my actions, or busyness, and set my priorities once again. Oh wouldn't it be nice if we only had to do it once! It doesn't matter if I'm a school teacher, or a wife, or a daughter...my only desire is for more of God, knowing that everything else will fall into place. All my dreams and hopes for the future are nothing in comparison to being in my Father's arms.

So, if I take responsibility for my learning, I will devote more time to being still before an Almighty God. Knowing, that it will be only by His grace that this will happen. For in my weakness, He is strong! What would you fill in the blank?

The Journey Begins...

2009-10-17T14:08:00.002-05:00

Well, the journey has already begun, but it's about to take us from what we know and are familiar with. In about 1 hour, we will begin our drive towards Colorado Springs. I can't believe I am actually saying that!
We started the process with HCJB in October of 2006, man how time flies! There are so many emotions running through our minds and hearts, but mostly excitement. This will be our first road trip with just Larry, Callie-our dog, and I. After packing the car, we just kind of stood there wondering how we have so much stuff! I mean, we're only there for 5 weeks, but it looks like we're going off to college again or something!
We hope to be in Colorado Springs tomorrow night, and then I will update a little more often to share what's going on. Okay Lord, we are ready, let's do this!
Yeahhhhhhh Whoooooooooooo!

My Last Day at School

2009-10-04T21:01:00.002-05:00

I wondered how I would tell my kids at school that it would be my last week with them. I wondered how it would be the last day when I had to say goodbye. I wondered, and I prayed, and God gave me the strength, and the words, and the peace to make it through.

I could not have asked for a better week. I wasn't sure how I would do it without crying! But when it came down to it, I was amazed at how well it all went (thank you prayer warriors!) Of course we are excited about the next step, but I always get attached easily. I've heard their stories, and it was hard to say goodbye to such a great group of kids. And although I only knew them for a short while, I will always remember the love they showed me on Friday.

I'm very thankful that God provided a new teacher in my place, one that loves Him, one that I know will love those kids. As I was praying this summer for her, she was also praying for a job in teaching. I could not have asked for more. I sit amazed once again at the work of an almighty God. A God that has a plan far better than we could have ever imagined for ourselves. A plan to prosper us, not to harm us. A plan to give us a hope and a future. Jeremiah 3:5-6

2009-09-29T19:45:00.002-05:00

Today was the day that I told my kids at school that Friday would be my last day with them. I have to say, that I was kind of dreading it at first. Last week was tough as my time there was coming to an end. I wondered how in the world I would get through it, what I would say, when I should say it...and if I could make it through without crying!!!?

But I heard some things during worship on Sunday that put me in my place. It helped me get my head on straight. I realized that I was "worrying" about the whole thing. I knew that I had to give it to Him, and trust Him to work everything out. I knew He would give me strength when I needed it...and He did!

I also felt like He wanted me to be transparent, that is always scary, but I've learned that when I am, God does really cool things. So I decided to tell my kids about the time that I had to take my Spanish oral proficiency test 5 times before I passed. How I didn't understand at the time, but that in looking back, I realize that God brought me to the end of my rope for a reason...to see if I was going to live my life for me or for Him? Teaching was my dream, and God was asking me to give it to Him. I didn't understand it, but I decided to trust Him. The next time I took that test, I passed. No coincidence. I was learning how to trust in Him, His promises, His word, and His love. I was learning to not lean on my own understanding.

I remember thinking at that time in my life, "Lord how is this ever going to glorify you?" Well, today I think it did just that. What I thought was a weakness, was used today to bring glory to Him! I think the kids "got it." They were surprised for sure, but they were awesome! I am so blessed to have been able to be a part of their lives:-)

Born Again-Broken Beyond Repair, Until He Came Along and Sang a Song Over Me!

2009-09-10T19:09:00.003-05:00

Turning 30 makes some people afraid. For others, it is exciting. For me, I rejoice! September 12th was not only the day I was born, it was the day I was BORN AGAIN! It was the day that God reached down and saved me, the day that He opened the door, the day that He set me free. It was the day that God sang over me!

It was Sept. 12, 1999, my sophomore year in college. I was at a little church called Martindale Baptist. That day was college Sunday, I had to sit in the aisle in a fold up chair b/c there were so many people. The preacher was a college student named Scott Mills. The more he preached God's word, the more God tugged on my heart. At the end of the service, our pastor gave an invitation to accept Christ. I stood there, frozen in my tracks. I wanted to go forward, but I was stuck. Stuck in fear. I thought that maybe my Mom would be upset (she had raised me Catholic and had passed away 5 years earlier). I felt that in some way, I would be leaving what we shared together. Tears began to flow down my face. I prayed and cried out for God to help me. That is when He answered me. Shortly after, the organist changed songs and began to play Amazing Grace (the song that was played at my Mom's funeral). As the song played, a peace and comfort that can only come from above swept over me. It was if my mom were saying, "It's okay...go!" I smiled, and walked to the front. That day I gave my life to Christ, knowing that His love was so much more real than anything I had ever known.

I realize now, that it was God singing over me! Zephaniah 3:17 says, "The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing."

Isn't it amazing! God sings over us! And for the first time, in a long time, I felt like I was living. For the first time, I was ALIVE! I look back and I thank you Lord for all you have done for me. All I want to do, is give my life back to you! Thank you for opening my eyes and setting me free. Thank you for AMAZING GRACE!

God Will Fight For You, He Will Carry You!

2009-09-05T06:17:00.004-05:00

Deuteronomy 1:30-31 "The Lord your God, who is going before you, will fight for you. You saw how the Lord your God carried you, as a father carries his son, all the way until you reached this place."

I am reading a book called "The Power of Praying Through the Bible" by Stormie Omartian. It is wonderful. As I read today's passage, it made me think back on our journey towards Ecuador. She says, "walking into a closer relationship with God can be like entering your own promise land. You know it's a good place, but it's still filled with unknowns. Following Jesus doesn't mean life is going to be easy. You'll still have giants to battle, territory to claim, and work to do. But God says regarding your journey with Him, "Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." And the reason is because "the Lord your God, who is going before you, will fight for you" (Deut. 1:30)

As I look back, I can see how that is so true for us. When we first began our FUNdraising, we tried doing it our way, the easy way. We were scared about "asking people to support us." We wandered around in that "desert" for quite some time. God was just waiting for us to bring it to Him, so that He could fight the battle for us. After going to Ecuador during Spring Break, we were able to get a "taste" of what God had for us. It was so EXCITING! We prayed, Lord please show us...we don't know how to do this or what to do! He did show us. Not only did he guide us, He fought the battle for us. When we released it over to Him, the burden became light as He carried us.

It took us 15 months to get to 37%. God took us from 37% to 92% in 2 months! You see, "He already knows the unknowns. He knows about the giants. He has the battle plan. All we need to do is continually look to Him in prayer and follow His lead!" (Omartian)

Thank you Lord! We are bubbling over with excitement. Ecuador is our "promise land" and we are getting so close! Thank you for teaching us, and for being patient with us. Thank you for showing us that you want to carry us through the desert, we don't have to walk through it alone! Father, we see how you have brought us through, and we praise you and give you ALL the glory! Lord, we can only imagine, what it will be like! We rejoice and cry out to you, for you are the Maker of Heaven and Earth! We love you!

By the Power of Christ in Me

2009-08-07T09:03:00.004-05:00

When you feel that you are being stripped down to the bone and cry out to God b/c you are weak and you know you can not do this on your own, He reminds us that it is right where He wants us. As a gardener prunes the vine so it can bear more fruit, He prunes us down to the core so that the only thing left...is Him. Father, may we respond with "Daddy, here I am!" Use me, strip me of my own abilities, so that whatever is left is YOU! May they just see YOU!

A song from Casting Crowns "In Me."

If you ask me to leave out of my boat on the crashing waves
And if you ask me to go preach to a lost world that Jesus saves
I'll go but I can not go alone cuz i know I'm nothing on my own
But the power of Christ in me makes me strong, makes me strong!

Cuz when I'm weak, you make me strong
When I'm blind, you shine your light on me
Cuz I'll never get by...living on my own ability
How refreshing to know you don't need me
How amazing to find that you want me
So I'll stand on your truth and I'll fight with your strength
until you bring the victory, by the power of Christ in me.

If you asked me to run and carry your light into a foreign land
If you asked me to fight deliver your people from Satan's hand
I'll go but I can not go alone
Cuz I know I'm nothing on my own
The power of Christ in me makes me strong, makes me strong!

To reach out through your hands, to see the world through your eyes
To love with the love of the Savior
To feel with your heart, and to think with your mind
I'll give my last breath for your glory!

More of HIM!

2009-08-02T19:32:00.003-05:00

The previous blog had updated everyone until Thursday. We were praying to reach 75% by this weekend. God did it, we are amazed! We were looking at an old newsletter last night. We saw that it took us from October-May to go up 10%. That is 7 months... and God just did it again in 7 days! Unbelievable! What a mighty God we serve!

This morning we spoke at a men's breakfast at South Main Baptist and went to service there with Larry's parents. The passage was about how Jesus fed the thousands with 5 loaves and 2 fish. How God is the one provides for all of our needs.

Later, we made it to our church at UBC. When our pastor started reading the SAME passage that we heard an hour earlier... I looked at Larry and smiled... "You think God's trying to tell us something here?"

When we got home I was able to speak with a family member that we had visited recently. That is when he told me that they would be supporting us...which put us right at 75%!

As I look back, I realize though that it is not about getting to 100%, or to the next "thing" in our life. It's about having a hunger and passion for more of God. Just Him-nothing more. He supplies our every need, He knows the desires of our heart. Our spiritual act of worship is to be living sacrifices. Lord here am I... send me!

Being Surprised by God...

2009-07-30T11:49:00.007-05:00

This week has been AMAZING! Last weekend when we reached 63%, we were so excited! We weren't sure what it all meant b/c it happened so fast. A few friends were praying "specifically" for us, so I decided to give it a try.

In the past, I haven't prayed specifically b/c I didn't want to feel like I had to have it my way. But when we received a big amount after someone prayed for a big amount, and when we reached "60% before school started" like another person prayed... I began to wonder if I should pray specifically. I am reminded of the verse in Matthew: "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you."

So I began to pray that by this Saturday, 1 week later, that God would get us to 75%! Something I am also learning is that I need to wait patiently for Him to do it His way. To give it to Him and not try to do it myself... a lesson I'm continually being reminded of:-)

On Monday I had lunch with a friend who is already supporting us. Before I could even tell her anything she told me how her landlord was going to cut her rent back. She said that she told God that whatever the amount was-that she would give 1/2 of it to us each month. She was thinking it would be around $25. Nope, it was $75... a month! That's when the tears started to flow. I knew it was the beginning to seeing God provide in ways I never thought!

Tuesday was a different surprise! I found 4 cucumbers in my garden (that I thought was dead!) God was encouraging me to not give up. Just when you least expect it-there's the fruit!

Wednesday, just when I thought the day was over, someone called and helped us out with something we really needed. I just laughed as I was walking home and thanked God... for yet another surprise that I wasn't expecting.

And then today, we thought we were at 66%, and as we were working on the next newsletter, we went up to 70%!

So, you can imagine... I'm looking forward to the next 2 days just wondering what God is gonna do next! The rest of the verse in Matthew rings true for me..."If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!"

Ecuador Video

2009-07-27T17:20:00.004-05:00

This is a video that Larry and I, well... really Larry put together when we returned from Quito:-) It was so good to be able to see where we will be serving and meet the people we will be working with. It is exciting to see what God does each and every day as we get closer to our goal. It has been a huge blessing and we praise Him for all He has done and will do.

From 50-64% in 24 hours!!!!!!

2009-07-24T08:31:00.005-05:00

So I woke up at 6:30 yesterday morning unable to sleep. I went to the computer to check my email which is where we received some really good news! But first let me tell you the story behind it.

About 2 weeks ago, I texted a friend to see if she would pray for us as we went to talk with a couple from our church. When we were finished talking with them, I texted her to say thank you for praying, b/c they told us they would support us! That is when she texted me and said, "I prayed and asked God to give ya'll a BIG amount." So I picked up the phone and called her. I said, "Brenda, that is crazy that you prayed that!" She asked, "Why?" I told her that the couple had not only told us that they would support us, but that they were going to try to work with an organization so they could give us a BIGGER amount, but that they had to meet with them first! We both thought it was really cool how God let us both know that He was listening :-)

So I mosey on over to the computer yesterday morning to check e-mail, and that is when I found out that the big amount...was a BIG amount! It brought us from 53% to 63%! AMAZING! I ran to the back bedroom to wake Larry up and tell him. He thought I may have been mistaken and saw for himself. So, I'm running around Larry's parents house like a little kid telling everyone! My heart raced all day long! I called my friend Kelly to tell her as well. She said, "Wow! Just last night (which is when the organization was meeting) I specifically prayed that God would get you to 60% before school started!" So we are officially at 64%, and praying for 75% to come soon! Oh my goodness...God is good!

We are so thankful for the support we have received. It has been an incredible and exciting journey, with many bumps and turns, yet God has been FAITHFUL! We give Him ALL the glory for what He is doing. Please pray for us the next few weeks as we continue to raise support.

I love what Paul says in 2 Corinthians: "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me."

The Lesson Behind 50%

2009-07-22T12:58:00.004-05:00

Just last week we reached 50%! We praise God and thank Him for all He has done and will continue to do. When we started the process with HCJB 2 years ago, we prayed that God would open the doors, and that we would know which path to take. It was scary as we stepped out into the unknown. God was simply asking us to trust Him, and we are so glad we did!

Since Larry has quit his job, we have been pretty busy talking with people about Ecuador. It has been the biggest blessing ever! I told Larry that it's like "going fishing." It has been so amazing to see God prepare people's hearts. All we do is cast the net out, and He brings in the fish. It is so exciting when we get another fish (supporter)! We are filled with so much joy and excitement.

I was telling a friend, and she said it reminded her of when Jesus called the First Disciples. Jesus said to Simon (Larry & Amanda) "Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch." Simon (We) answered, "Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But b/c you say so, I will let down the nets." You probably remember the rest of the story, they caught so many fish that their nets began to break, and then their boats were so full that they began to sink!

Jesus then said to Simon (Larry & Amanda), "Don't be afraid; from now on you will catch men." Their response: They pulled their boats on shore, left everything, and followed him.

Lord, we want to follow you, and glorify you in all we do! Thank you for getting us to 50%!

In 3, 2, 1... I'm Letting Go!

2009-07-13T11:16:00.002-05:00

Have you ever tried to figure things out and just couldn't? You talked with others, hoping to find answers to your questions or problems, all the time knowing you needed to bring it to God. There is power in "letting go."

The funny thing is-I've learned this lesson before when I was trying to pass one of my tests to teach. I had to take the test 5 times before I finally passed... and it didn't happen on my own. I tried everything I knew how to do; talked with others, did my "homework" and it just wasn't happening... until I reached the end of my rope and cried out to God for help. That is when I got the results I needed, by letting go and letting God do His thing so He could get the glory!

I'm shaking my head now, wondering why I didn't see it before. But I know why, I was too busy trying to "figure it out." I was the one in control, and it was driving me crazy. I felt like if I let go, it was like I didn't care. But now I realize that by letting go, I am no longer trusting myself to fix the problem, I am trusting God to do His thing in His time. And I believe in Him and trust Him, because I've seen Him work miracles in my life as well as others.

It's like a breath of fresh air, thank you Lord for allowing me to see what I need to do. Thank you for lifting my weight and carrying my burden. And when people ask, "So what did you do?" I can tell them...I trusted you!

Jesus said, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it."
John 11:4

Whatever!

2009-07-08T15:10:00.002-05:00

I was all excited about going to a cycling class this morning at the gym. We got there 45 minutes early, just so we could get a bike! (I was #26 the day before and missed out!)

I think I did okay the first 5 minutes of the 45 minute class! I looked at the clock 25 minutes into it and thought... "Man, there is just no way I can go for another 20 minutes!" I was so tired, and sweating like never before, and my faced looked like a red cherry tomato!

I remembered something from the Biggest Loser (last season) that Jerry said at the finale and it stuck with me. He said, "the biggest factor to get over is getting your mind out of the way!" Let me tell you, my mind was speaking to me. I was tired, my body hurt, I didn't feel like I had any more to give. So, I began to say the verse in Philippians over and over again, "I can do ALL things through Christ, who strengthens me!" Yet the other voices were still telling me to sit down, that I was done, it was my first time after all.

And then it happened, I said... "WHATEVER!!!!!" I'm doing this. Man, I wish I could tell you the power I felt at that moment! I think I was the only one in there smiling. So I began this conversation with God. I just wanted him to get rid of ALL my junk. Lord, just rid my body of it. So, now I'm not only smiling, I'm crying, and laughing... and yelling at my friend, "I can do all things through Christ!" And she is thinking I'm crazy, not hearing a word I'm saying.

Needless to say, I finished the class, but I experienced much more. Today I spoke back to the negative comments in my head with God's Word. And today, He really showed me that there is POWER when we rely on him to get us through! Once you get over your mind (the hump) it was all down hill from there!

A Good Work Complete

2009-06-30T17:51:00.005-05:00

One year ago my cousin Gregory died in a car accident while serving as a summer missionary in Peru. I remember when my Mom told me what happened. I couldn't believe it. Here was a young man, who just graduated college, and was serving God in a foreign land and suddenly he was no longer with us. I haven't really spoken to anyone about how I felt about it except Amanda. I thought to myself, why? I realized I might never know the answer to that question.
A few days later I remembered a verse... Phil 1:6 "Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." I know it talks about the day of Jesus' return, but it also says the completion of the work started in you. Gregory answered the call to serve and had served the Lord throughout his life. I believe the good work started in him was complete and God called Gregory home. Some people might wonder what Gregory's life may have been like if he were still with us on earth... I don't, because I know he is where he belongs. And I rejoice.

Test Me in This...

2009-05-24T15:58:00.004-05:00

Last Sunday at church I bout jumped out of my chair when we read Malachi 3:10. About a year ago, when we started our FUNdraising, the Lord really encouraged me one day when I was a little down b/c things weren't going the way I thought they should! It was from this verse, and I heard loud and clear, "Test Me now in this and see if I do not throw open the floodgates of heaven for you and pour out so much blessing until it overflows."
It was on that day, that I was reminded that my trust needed to rest in God, and not man. I have often looked for that verse over the past year, but could never find it... until Sunday. So when I said in a very excited voice, "There it is, that verse!" and realized I said it aloud b/c everyone was laughing at me, I knew that it was for a reason.
Later that day, we went back up to the church to meet with the Missions Council to show them our new DVD from Ecuador and give them an update.
They asked us, so how much more do ya'll need in order to reach your "Outgoing Expenses?" Larry and I said, "We'd have to check on the exact amount, but somewhere around $4,000-$5,000." They smiled and then slid a white envelope across the table and said, "I think we can help with that." It was a check, that covered the rest of the amount of our Outgoing Expenses!!!!!!!!! We were SPEECHLESS!
It has been an incredible journey to see God do things beyond what we could have imagined or done in a way, that we could have never dreamed up. It was as if God was saying... "See?! I told you I would provide for you... if you would just trust ME!"
Thank you Lord, for blowing my socks off once again, and for blessing us beyond what words could ever say or express. You are holy, and we continue to be amazed and in awe of you!

"I'll love you always..."

2009-05-10T20:38:00.006-05:00

Those are the words my Mom wrote on a daily calendar that she had given me not too long before she passed away. She wrote, "I'll love you always and will be near you now and forever and ever."
I was driving to church this morning and thanking God for the amazing women He has placed in my life. I know that God always provided a Mom right when I needed her. Like, to take me shopping for a prom dress, or buy school clothes, or fill out college application forms. He always provided someone to listen as well as give Godly advice.

And as I look back now, I realize that I have now lived as much of my life without my Mom as I did with her. And although I will not understand on this side of earth, why things happen the way they did, I have come to realize that the Lord has been so good to me. He has been so very good to me...to have put these amazing women in my life right when I needed them the most, even though I didn't always realize it at the time-which brings me to today.

It was another great time of worship today as I continued to thank Him. But something unexpected happened at the end, something I wasn't quite prepared for. As we bowed our heads to pray, a Mom (who happens to remind me so much of my Mom) came and stood beside me. She wrapped her arms around me and just hugged me as we prayed. I wish I could describe the peace I felt as I did everything I could to just keep the tears from running down my face. Afterwards, I looked at her and smiled with big ole teary eyes and told her thank you. She hugged me tight and said, "Your Mamma would be so proud of you."

Well that did it, there was no use in trying to hold the tears back anymore. You see, on the way to church this morning, I wondered..."What would my Mom think right now, if she could be here with me today?" And was God not so incredibly good...to let me know?!!!

So today, I thank all the women who have ever wiped a tear or lent a listening ear. And today, I want everyone to know how thankful I am for the wonderful Mom God gave me for the 15 years that He did. She taught me all I really needed to know. I love you Mamma...now and forever...you will always be near me this I know!

Life's a Dance, You Learn As You Go

2009-04-18T11:25:00.005-05:00

It was a nice Spring day, I was about 11 or 12 years old when my Mom asked me to go place the ice trays filled with bird seed out in our backyard for the birds. I was excited to do this, so I took them and walked outside. I took my time gathering the bird seed in my fingers and sprinkling it all round the yard in our nice green grass. A little here and a little there, it was so much fun feeding the birds. As I sprinkled...I smiled, I sang, I tossed it all around

After some time, (I'm sure my Mom wondered what was taking so long), I came back into the kitchen with the empty ice trays. I'll never forget the look on our face...a look of bewilderment. With one hand on her hip and the other hand facing up, she asked, "What did you do with the bird seed?" I told her I did what she told me to, I went out and fed the birds by sprinkling it all over the back yard and how I had fun doing it. Fortunately, she just got this big grin on her face and started laughing. I wasn't sure what was so funny about that. She said, "Amanda, I wanted you to go set the trays outside on the picnic table, or porch so the birds could find it!" "How do you think the birds will find 1 little seed hidden in the grass?" Well, I hadn't thought about that, I just had fun spreading the seed, knowing that the birds must find it somehow, they're birds after all!

I think of that story and still laugh to this day. I also think how I would like to hang on to the "childlike faith." This week, God proved himself faithful once again in numerous ways. He is encouraging me to have fun in spreading the seed, to let it go everywhere-all over the place, and to trust that He is in control. I have found that in doing so, it is much more fun and EASY! I have also found that I would rather do it God's way, b/c I don't have to think (worry)so much. It's not like planting tomatoes or squash (work, work, work!) It's about enjoying the DANCE with HIM! It reminded me of this song I used to hear growing up:

Life is a DANCE, you learn as you go,
Sometime you lead, sometimes you follow,
Don't worry 'bout what you don't know,
Life's a Dance...you learn as you go!

Life is a dance...sometimes, we just don't hear the tune. I want to DANCE!

Larry and I are currently at 35% supported! We are trying to reach 50% by May...only a few weeks away. Won't you consider spreading God's word with us so that ALL people can have hope through Christ? Every little bit helps! Please PRAY with us, JOIN with us, and SEE how God will use your faithfulness to bring other to HIM!

The Parable of the Sower

2009-04-05T13:21:00.006-05:00

I was reading my bible study lesson this week which focused on Mark 4:3-8. The study encouraged us to pray throughout the lesson for God to give us "insight" as to what He wanted us to get from it. I did...and God helped me to see the picture differently!

This is the 2nd time God has directed me to this passage, so I was already like, "Okay God, what are you teaching me about this lesson?" To sum it up...I learned that I am not in control and need to trust HIM to do what He said he would do.

You're probably thinking...Duh! We all "know" we are not in control. But for me, I felt that I had to do it just right in order to get results. How wrong is that!? So I was scared to do what He called in fear of not doing it right.

Not anymore. I learned that I need to scatter the seed like planting wheat...just throw it out there. I was trying to plant tomatoes...being all methodical about it. I know that "the seed" will fall on different soil, but that is not my job to determine...it's God's. All He has asked me to do is to be His servant and to throw the seed out there...He is the one who will make it grow. I thank my God who has been teaching me so much about my reliance on Him, my bible study and bible study teacher who continue to encourage us, and to all those praying for us!

Lord, may you receive all the Glory! 1 Corinthians 3: 7-9
" So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor. For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building."

Our trip to Quito, Ecuador

2009-03-22T20:26:00.011-05:00

We arrived in Quito late Sunday night, so we really didn't know what anything looked like until we woke up on Monday morning. The first thing I did, was run to the window to open the curtains. I then jumped on the bed to wake Larry up so he could see the amazing view. The terrain in Ecuador is absolutely beautiful.

Our first day we were able to tour the HCJB radio station, the Alliance Academy (where Amanda may teach) and a small orphanage. It was such a blessing to be able to meet the people we may be working with and ask lots of questions.

On Tuesday, we hired a driver to take us on a 5 hour trip to Shell, which is located at the edge of the jungle. Here we were able to tour the hospital, the "Nate Saint" school, and a small radio station. You may remember that Nate Saint was one of the missionaries killed along with Jim Elliot by a tribe in the Amazon jungle called the "Waodani." Their story has been made into a movie called "End of the Spear." We thought it was really cool to be able to see where they lived and how God has expanded the ministry to many other tribes in the Amazon jungle.

This is a picture on the way to Shell in a town called Banos. We were amazed at how beautiful the country side was with the many waterfalls.

Our last day we were able to tour the "outskirts" of Quito. We went up the "teleferiqo" which overlooked all of Quito-the view was picture perfect.
We had such a peace as we looked down on the city that we will soon be living in. We hope to have more pictures up later. Thanks for keeping us in your prayers and sharing the journey with us.

Chronos vs. Kairos-time

2009-03-01T08:33:00.006-06:00

English has only 1 word for "time." Last night I learned that there are two words for time in Greek...Chronos and Kairos. Chronos is "time on the move" whereas Kairos is "time in the moment." Kairos is qualitative rather than qualitative.

I learned the difference between "knowing God in Chronos time" and "knowing God in Kairos" time. We can say that we have known God for 10, 20, 30 years. Maybe we grew up in the church. And it is possible to know God for a long amount of time (Chronos), but not know God and seize the moments He gives us (Kairos).

About 2 weeks ago, I decided to no longer wear a watch. "Chronos" had me too concerned with the "time" that I shouldn't be concerned about. God is teaching me so much about "His time." The moments he gives us, that pass will pass us by, if we are too focused on the Chronos time.

Kairos is our way of figuring out the Father's time. It's a time of circumstances and signs rather than clocks and alarms. Now that I understand time from Jesus' point of view, I know that Jesus will send us, when conditions are right. I am learning that He doesn't "need" me or "need" others to help him proclaim His message. For even, the rocks cry out His name. What He desires is relationship...Kairos. And He invites us to answer the question, "Who will go for me, whom shall I send?" He gives us the chance to respond..."Lord, here am I...send me!"

"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we breathe, but by the moments we seize!"

He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."

2009-02-16T08:05:00.002-06:00

I decided to be more like an eagle and less like a hummingbird this week! And God truly showed me His power through my weakness.

Throughout the week, I purposely planned less activities at school. Less talking...more interaction with kids. And my kids taught me something this week!

On Friday, I asked if they noticed anything different about the week. I got comments like, "it was more fun," "there was more interaction," "we learned by doing." I was excited that they picked up on the new style. But that wasn't the best part.

I told them that I wanted to share something from my heart. It's funny b/c just about every class threw out the comment... "You're pregnant!" (For some reason, they really think we need to have kids????)

After much laughter, I said no...it's actually about you. I told them how I had always wanted to be a good teacher, but realized that I was running in the wrong direction. I was trying to be a good teacher teaching verbs, and direct object pronouns. And that basically, I had missed the most important part...which was not up on the board, but in the audience. That they were the most important part to me, not if they knew how to use direct object pronouns.

At first, I was nervous to be so "transparent." It was "quiet" as they looked at me, some with tears in their eyes. But God truly showed me His power in my weakness. These are comments they said after a few moments:

Mrs. Castro, that is the nicest thing anyone has ever said to us!
Where is the tissue, you are making me cry!
We love you, thank you for sharing with us!
And my favorite..."Can I take lessons from your husband?" I had shared a little about Larry and our relationship, they evidently like that kind of stuff.

What a breakthrough! Of all the years I have been teaching, I believe they will remember this one. It was amazing to see God's power at work. We had fun the rest of the day, ate Valentine cupcakes, and made V. cards in Spanish.
Thank you Lord!

Hummingbirds vs. Eagles!

2009-02-08T21:10:00.007-06:00

Did you know that hummingbirds are always 1 hour away from starving to death? They are always flapping those little wings so fast, it makes you tired just watching them. Our pastor told us today how eagles on the other hand, can go miles without flapping their wings. They instead rely on the wind current below to help them soar!

I thought about that today and have been learning that I have been a little hummingbird. Trying to do things that I thought were "good" but constantly falling short. I make myself tired! I'm learning that it's really not about all the stuff we do, even if we think we are doing it for Jesus. It's about the time we spend with Him. It's such a slow fade from trusting Him with everything...to start thinking that you can do it yourself. And before you know it, your walking through this life doing things your way, wondering why your always worn out and burnt out?

Fortunately, God has been teaching me that there is an answer for this problem of mine and my need to feel that I have to control everything! It's actually pretty easy to do, but takes some time to practice. I'm learning that I have to "re-train" my stubborn brain b/c it wants to keep doing things the old fashioned way-the hummingbird way! But His way is much more inviting, much more peaceful, and much less work. And once you see it done His way, you never want to return to the old way.

I told you recently about my little prayer jar. That has helped me tremendously b/c it reminds me when I want to get frustrated or try to "fix" something that I already gave it to Him and that He is taking care of it. And so I realized there is a 3rd part to the equation! TRUST=PEACE...yes! But it doesn't stop there b/c when we TRUST and God gives us PEACE, he also gives us STRENGTH! And this does not come from us, it only comes from Him. He gives us the strength to do ALL things through Him-with His eyes, His heart, His way. It's like going from "tunnel vision" to "wide-screen vision!" And who wants to return to tunnel vision when you can see it on a wide-screen! Ain't happening! Out with the hummingbird...I'd much rather ride with the EAGLE!
And those that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up on wings like eagles, run and not grown weary, walk and not faint!

Wow Lord!

2009-02-01T18:26:00.002-06:00

You know how I was telling you about the jar?! Well, God did it again! He orchestrated something that I didn't have any control of, something that completely surprised us, something that He had been up to. . .and was waiting for us to come to Him.

One of my prayers was that the Lord would show us every step to take and how to take it. That we would listen to His voice and be able to do it His way, not ours! I like how my friend put it, "Lord, I don't want to sit in the driving seat and take directions-I just want you to take the wheel!"

It wasn't long that I had been praying this that I got a "friend request" through Facebook. It was from some long time friends that we had met while in college. They asked what we were up to- so I gave them a quick update about our journey with HCJB, raising support, and our desire to go to Ecuador.

The next email went something like this:
"Dear Amanda,
_____________ and I have been praying for a place to give our tithe since we are between churches right now. We would like to give it to you ministry until we find a church. Could you send us your information so we can start doing this? Oh, and we'd also like to support you guys with $______/month."

I just kinda sat there with my mouth open for a couple of minutes. I sat in awe of a Mighty God who is working things according to His purpose, which is way over my little head!

TRUST = PEACE

2009-01-28T19:55:00.004-06:00

I wanted to share something with you, that I didn't understand when it happened. It was about 7 years ago in Del Rio, Tx. I was there for the summer do mission work with my partner named Lauren. That summer God really did a work in me. I went thinking I would "give up a summer." And in reality, I didn't give up anything b/c God blessed and taught me so much about Himself. And still is. . .7 years later.

I remember struggling with trusting Him with everything. I was scared, about what the future might hold. But I wanted to trust Him, the way a little girl trusts her father when he throws her in the air. She knows he will catch her when she falls, she isn't scared, b/c she knows she will land safely in his arms. I remember thinking, "Lord, I want to trust you like the little girl."

It was during that summer, that God taught me to forgive myself and to trust Him. One night I was lying in bed, and I couldn't get this "vision" out of my head. It was no longer the little girl being tossed in the air by her father. It was me, all grown up, walking with Jesus, hand in hand. As we walked, we just looked at each other. I didn't know what that was about???? I remember telling me roommate, and she said after some thought, "It sounds like peace."

And it wasn't until I wrote the last blog and was reading over it that it clicked! It was a picture of peace. As if God was saying, "When you come to me and trust me, you will have peace in your heart. It was the kind of peace that you get when you trust HIM, and not in your own ways. And that when you trust HIM-you are free to just BE with Him. What a love story! How God wants us to meet with Him, and how He sweeps us off our feet when we do! It was after that summer that I decided to trust God with my future with Larry-knowing that I could not control our future but that I could trust that God would be with me the whole way, walking with me, holding my hand. Now that's PEACE! Thank you Lord!

Swept Off My Feet

2009-01-26T21:05:00.004-06:00

Last week I shared about "the jar." How God was just blessing me all week long, speaking to me, encouraging me, in ways that just had me speechless, or laughing out loud. It was then that I realized. . .I had been doing it my way.

I went to a retreat on Saturday called, "Refresh, Refuel, & Re-energize." I sat in awe, b/c the things that were being said was what God had been teaching me. It's not about what I do for Him. . .but about being WITH Him. God is saying, "Stop trying to figure and work everything out. Just come to me. . .love Me!" Matthew 11:28-30 says "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

I am learning that TRUST brings PEACE. When I'm trusting in Him to answer, I am recognizing who is really in control. And I am happy to say, that He has showed me amazing things again this week. Every day, it just gets better and better. He hears me, He knows me, He had been waiting all along for me to just come and sit in his lap. Now, there is no other place I'd rather be than to be at His feet. Lord your love is OVERWHELMING!

Catch and Release. . .A week of miracles!

2009-01-19T07:55:00.007-06:00

During the Christmas break, I began to look back at 2008 to see what God had been teaching me. I found a pattern. It was a pattern of me trying to do things my way, in my timing, on my own. It wasn't until I was at the end of my rope, crying out to God, that He helped me realize something. "Catch and Release."

There's a song out by Casting Crowns called "Slow Fade." For me, the concept applied. It was a slow fade from where I trusted God for everything, to doing things myself-being self sufficient. When did this happen??? It wasn't overnight! It was a slow fade, so slow that I didn't realize it until I was desperate. Worries, and doubts/concerns enter our minds all the time. They can drag you down so fast and easily. That's when I knew that I had to release them as soon as I "caught" them.

So, I got a jar. I wrote down all of the things that were on my mind. My prayers that I did not want to even try to fix myself. I wrote them down, and I put them in the jar. "God, they're yours. . . I'm leaving them with you-it's out of my hands."

And boy did He blow my socks off! Each day from Sunday to Sunday-God encouraged me through people, new ideas, pastors, loved ones. God was showing me how much he loves me! He opened my eyes to a different way. I was like a little kid again, sitting on the edge of my seat. . . waiting in anticipation for the next day. . . wondering what God would do next. Here are a few of those miracles:

Sunday:listening to sermon-got a great idea for our next newsletter. Also, a friend from church invited us to come speak at her bible study. Answer to prayer: Guidance in our support raising.
Monday: Encouraged by friend over phone regarding support-kept getting goose bumps during the conversation
Tuesday-Saturday: Continued answers to prayers. Not just 1, oh no. . . God was encouraging me all the way around!

After you experience a week like that, you never want to even consider going back to the way you were doing it.

So my encouragement to all of you- Catch and Release- Get a jar baby!

seeing God move-larry

2009-01-05T09:47:00.002-06:00

It is really cool to look back and see how God has moved through our lives. I understand now why people say to keep a journal. Most people know my passion is to work in radio ministry and it seemed to me like God wasn't listening to me. When I look back I see that God was saying be patient.

I wanted so badly to be an on-air dj at a Christian radio station. Along the way God gave me some little nuggets to make me happy as a way of saying hold on... but I didn't see it like that at the time. After college I got to do some voice-over work on a few commercials. Then I got to be a guest dj for one morning at a Houston radio station. Then my friend Pete asked me to put together his radio program. It is mostly his sermon that I edit and add an intro to each week and send to a few radio staions. But all these were God's way of saying hold on. Now I get to be a fill-in dj at KSBj (christian radio station) when the regular dj's take a day off.

I always thought God wasn't listening because things were not happening when I wanted. But I know now God was saying wait, it will happen in MY timing. Be patient. So now I know God has us in a place where he wants us and when he wants us. Amanda and I are ready to be in Ecuador to work with HCJB Global now. But we know HE has us where we are right now for a reason. And HE is saying be patient. In the mean time he is giving us nuggets to make us happy. Like each time we get a new supporter. Or when we see how close we are to having part of our out-going expenses paid. So I don't know when we will go... but looking back on what God has done I know it will be in HIS timing.

God's challenge to me. . ." Turn it up a few notches!"

2008-11-29T18:43:00.006-06:00

Larry and I were driving to a friends house last weekend when we decided to drive through Seabrook, where we used to live. In a way, that seems like "forever" ago! At first, I was sad. I missed the comforts of our own home, the closeness to our church and friends, and the luxury of having a beach down the road! But God didn't let me wallow in this too long. I was reminded that where we are now, where we are at anytime, is only temporary! And it was then, that I looked at Larry and said, "Babe, we need to "turn it up a few notches!" This was in regards to our support raising. Of course, I wasn't really sure what that looked like. But God didn't leave me hanging too long. Sunday's message was titled, "When God calls us-when the time is right-God give us Dynamite Power!

Romans 8:11 says, "And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you."

I thought okay, starting in January, I will. . .STOP! No, not in January, NOW! God was telling me to be BOLD now! To be bold in Christ, to be a conqueror, not someone who is coasting, which is what I had been doing, unfortunately. I don't know if I realized it at the time, but now I do realize it. That God has called Larry and I to a purpose, to a mission that will reach people around the world, and that I better go ahead and start living that way. . .with confidence in Him!
I am soooooo ready! Through talking with friends and family, He has already begun to show me what living "BOLDLY" may look like. I wish I could tell you how I feel right now. I think I'm excited, nervous, and filled with anticipation to see a mighty God do dynamic things as we walk in obedience with Him. I have a feeling, that I have no idea, no earthly idea of this power living inside of me. But I am so ready to experience it. . .To Him, be the glory! Let's do this!
To be continued. . .

Fear is Temporary. . .

2008-08-18T22:08:00.002-05:00

As many of you know, Larry and I decided to go skydiving for our 5th Anniversary. It was something that we always talked about doing, but I'm not sure if we ever thought we would actually do it! Many have asked, "So what was the scariest part?" Although standing on the edge of the plane, 10,000 feet above the ground, with my toes hanging over the threshold was no small task-it wasn't the hardest part.

The scariest part. . .was picking up the phone and making the reservation! I knew once I committed to it, that I had to follow through. I just wasn't sure if I wanted to commit! Looking back, I realized something about myself. The hardest part for just about anything. . . is taking the first step. Afterwards, you realize that your fears were just something in your head. Once you get on the other side of that fear, you feel. . .like a conqueror! You feel that you can do anything. You want to live everyday to the fullest and not look back. . .No Regrets!

So, I'm pretty glad that we did this. It's a great boost right before school starts and a great boost to run the race that God has put in front of us. With no fear- trusting in Him alone to catch us when we fall.

Enjoy the crazy video! Unfortunately, we didn't get much footage of Larry like we had hoped. But he jumped as well:-)

Summer Lessons

2008-08-17T18:18:00.002-05:00

It's hard to believe that the summer is already over! Tomorrow is my first official day back, I'm looking forward to it. The summer has been good, I think I learned some valuable lessons that I needed to learn. As I went through my bible study, the lessons seemed right on time.

The first one that really caught my attention was titled, "Called to Courage." It asked me to consider how courageous I have been for God. Ouch! That's a tough one, how courageous have I been? I think I was still sitting in my comfort zone. That woke me up.

But it didn't stop there. The next lesson was titled, "Called to Trust." It asked what my fears were and if they impacted the way I live my life? They did. However, what I am learning is that fear is only something I make up in my head. We studied Rahab in this lesson and thought about how following God's call can mean being obedient even though you have to face fears in the process.

And then my favorite. . ."Watching God in Action." I learned that preparation is an important aspect on our part in being used by God. So I prayed and thought about what that looked like. I believe God showed me, and now I eagerly await to "Watch Him in Action!" Giving Him all the glory!

It also lead to me facing my fears 10,000 feet above the ground as Larry and I decided to jump out of a plane for our 5th Anniversary! It was amazing! I learned even more about myself and my God.

That story to be continued. . .

Whooooo Weeeeee! 25 % supported!

2008-07-22T16:33:00.002-05:00

Well, we are now officially 1/4 the way there! Praise God for his people, their hearts, and their obedience. We are so excited, I can't wait to see what it will be like to reach 50%! To think that we are a quarter of the way there, that is encouraging. Larry and I feel so blessed, so incredibly blessed and grateful to be able to see God provide in a way that is defintely over our heads. It's happening, we're going, praise the Lord! We are so excited to go, but look forward to the time we have left here to see family and friends. Thank you to all who are praying, giving, and encouraging us. We love you!
I would also like to recognize my husband's cousin, Gregory Gomez IV. He died in a car accident on July 5th while doing mission work in Peru. Although I didn't know Greg that well, the legacy he leaves behind has inspired me to run the race even harder and with a passion that comes from God. Seeing the faith he had and the faith of his family has been a tremendous encouragement to me and gently reminds me that life is so short, and to live each day with no regrets. Thank you Gomez family, you are in our prayers each and every day!

from 10 to 18 in hours!

2008-06-01T21:04:00.003-05:00

Well, I left for school on Friday morning thinking that we were at 10%. When I got home Larry and I decided to check our reports and add our new supporter, which put us at 16%. We were really excited, but it got better. On the way to graduation, I spoke with a friend on the phone and she let us know that she was going to support us as well. I called Larry, he plugged the number in, and we are now at 18%!!!!!!! Almost doubling from just a few hours before. God is good! It was a great start to the summer break. We will be sending our first newsletter this week, Lord willing. Thanks again for your support and prayers.

Visions in the Storms "It is I; don't be afraid." John 6:20

2008-05-15T17:48:00.002-05:00

I have come to realize that the one thing we feared and didn't want to "tackle" is what God is using to bless us incredibly. To think that we almost didn't apply with HCJB b/c we were fearful of raising support! I just want to thank God for walking us through, and for his people that have already agreed to support us. Each time we hear that someone wants to support us, my heart skips a beat. It's almost like a "rush." Complete joy! God is giving us continual confirmation that we are on the right path.

I'd like to share a passage from the devotional:
"Life is full of circumstances that are terrifying at first glance and can consume us with worries about the future. But here is the lesson learned by the disciples: What initially made them panic was the very Person who brought them growth, faith, rest, and guidance.
Our crises do the same. Though our initial reaction may be panic or fear or disobedience, in reality God may be using that to develop us as His disciples. They may bear eternal fruit that our terrified eyes cannot at first see.
Will we like the disciples, take Jesus "into the boat?" When they did, John reports, they immediately reached the shore. Their panic-like ours most often is-had been unfounded. Jesus brings them,and us, safely to solid ground."

God opens doors

2008-04-30T18:19:00.003-05:00

Well, I was driving to San Marcos on Saturday morning, when I decided to turn the radio off. It was then, that I noticed something different with the clouds. It looked like I was driving right into Ecuador. The clouds were a dark gray color and so it made them look like mountains with white at the top. That got me thinking about our journey, and how God has been so good to conquer my fears!

I guess we all come up with excuses/fears as to why we "can't" do something. My first fear was that we might not be accepted with HCJB for one reason or another. I remember feeling nervous about all the interviews. The morning before we left, I opened up my bible study and read in Genesis. This was the verse for the day: 4:7 "If you do what is right, will you not be accepted?" As I read those words, God gave me a peace in my heart, and I knew it would all work out. I just had to wait to hear the words.

About a week after our interviews, Chrystal from HCJB called to let us know that we had been accepted! My heart raced and was filled with joy! I was so excited to tell Larry. The only dilemma was when to go to training. We couldn't go in August b/c school was starting. Larry couldn't go in February b/c at the time no one could take vacation in February due to ratings at the station. So that meant June, a whole year later. So I prayed, and God answered. Larry came home one day in September. He said, "Hey babe, guess what? You know how we couldn't take vacation in Feb.? Well, they sent out an email today saying they are going to lift that ban." Wow! That's awesome!

Then around Christmas I began to wonder about this support raising that we were going to have to do. Psalm 121 was so encouraging "I lift my eyes up to the hills-where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." One morning at church, someone asked me how things were going and when we would be going to training. I was really excited b/c I had just had breakfast with some missionaries from HCJB at a friends house. I told him that we would be going in Febr. He asked if we had bought our tickets yet, to which I replied "No, not yet." He then said, "Well, I think we can take care of that." Wow! Oh my goodness! God was already providing, and we hadn't even technically started!

All of that to say, don't let your fears hold you back! God has a way of walking you through them. I look back and smile as I praise God for encouraging me through his Word, his beauty, and his people! What an amazing God we serve!

how we got here-larry

2008-04-24T09:08:00.005-05:00

I was reading a bible study recently and it got me thinking about how I got to this place in my life and giving in to God. I say giving in to God because at first I didn't want to go out of the country on missions. God set me on this path before I even knew it. It started with my interest in radio and then progressed to Christian radio when my walk with God grew. Then in college it was a call to missions. But I didn't want to go. I wanted things to happen my way. I wanted to work at a Christian radio station in Texas. I got frustrated and started to complain and get angry with God when things weren't working out my way.
The bible study talks about how Jeremiah was beaten after prophesying. He then prays to God letting out his honest feelings. The bible study asks "Do you need to write a prayer to God about your honest feelings? Remember, Jeremiah did not complain simply because times were tough. What happened resulted from his obedience. If you choose to complain, make sure you are justified in doing so like Jeremiah. Otherwise, pray to obey God first."
That reminded me of when I realized I wasn't obeying God, but complaining because things weren't happening the way I wanted. I felt God say "do you want to work in Christian radio for YOU or for ME. At that moment I realized I needed to serve God and not be concerned with my wants. That night Amanda and I prayed about joining HCJB Global and we decided we would walk down this path until God closed the door. So far the doors have been open.

Whooo Hooo!

2008-04-22T20:15:00.004-05:00

Thanks to recent supporters who have decided to join with us, we are now at 10% of what we need to get to Quito, Ecuador! Only 70% more to go before we can go to language/culture training in Colorado Springs. Thank you God and thank you family and friends! Larry and I are so excited. It has already been a great journey. We are so thankful for all of your prayers, encouragement, and support! We will keep you updated. Go God! Check out the new support thermometer :-)

lessons learned (part 1)

2008-03-08T07:42:00.013-06:00

I was driving home the other day when the song, "Praise You in the Storm" came on the radio. I have always loved that song because it helps me to take the focus off of myself and put it back on God. Then I began to reminisce about lessons that God has taught us the past few years, and how those lessons have prepared us for what lies ahead.
I'll start with myself. It all started after graduating from college. I have always wanted to be a teacher. I grew up hearing my grandparents (Mom's side) speak French, which I thought was really neat. I thought it would be really cool to teach Spanish, that way I could learn a new language too. The mission trips I went on in college confirmed that desire for me. I wanted to learn Spanish so I could communicate with even more people. So I graduated with a major in Spanish and was able to spend 6 weeks in Mexico one summer studying the language. However, in order to teach a foreign language, you have to take an Oral Proficiency Test. That didn't come so easily. Every time I took it, I missed the mark by 1 point. After the 3rd time of taking it and failing, I was discouraged. I wondered if my dream of teaching would ever come to fruition. Everything I worked so hard for in college would not mean anything if I couldn't pass this test to teach the subject I loved.
I remember sitting at church one night. I felt that God was asking me to trust HIM-completely with my career. I felt a strong peace come over me and was confidant that it would all work out. So I smiled and said, "Okay God, its in your hands."
I'd like to say the next time I took the test that I passed, but I failed the 4th time as well. I was confused. I was even angry and at the end of my rope. "Lord, I don't know what else to do! I have tried everything!" There was silence. And in that silence I heard, "Just answer the question." You are probably thinking- Duh! But with the TOPT, they tell you to expand on your answers as much as possible to show how much you know. So here God is telling me to do the opposite, and leave the rest to Him. So that is what I did. I just answered the question. I remember just staring at the wall during the test b/c I had so much extra time left over, thinking there was no way this would work.
Six weeks later, the scores came in. The letter felt different this time. I opened it up. . . "Score: PASSED" It was one of the best days of my life! Tears of joy streamed down my face. I didn't know if I should cry, dance, or fall on my face thanking God for a miracle! I was running all over the house, doing all three. Larry happened to call minutes later and we rejoiced together over the phone, both of us in tears. It was a true testimony of God intervening for me when I let go- and let Him take the wheel!
Through that experience God taught me many lessons. First, to praise Him even when things aren't going my way. Second, to listen and trust that what He says. . .He will do. God is faithful! And lastly, to obey. Even when it doesn't make sense to me!

about the mission

2008-03-04T18:57:00.000-06:00

When we moved to Houston, we became involved at University Baptist Church. It was at a bible study there where we heard about HCJB. Two of the couples were affiliated with HCJB Global and told us how we would be a perfect fit. However, we heard that we would have to " raise our own support" which was enough to scare us off. However, God was still working in our hearts and in October of 2006 we decided to take a step of faith. And the rest is history:-)

God began to take us step by step. It didn't seem so scary that way. We went to interview weekend in June of 2007, wondering if we would be accepted. A week later, we received the news that we were! Praise the Lord, the first door was being opened! The only thing was, we couldn't go to training for almost a year. But then, God opened another door, and Larry was able to take off of work in order for us to go in February. The Lord has provided for us in so many different ways and has encouraged to continue to walk forward.

Here is a little about what we will be doing in Ecuador. Larry will be training future radio broadcasters, and I will have the opportunity to teach English to locals. We are so excited to begin. Thank you for all your prayers!

a new journey begins

2008-03-03T16:35:00.002-06:00

As many of you know, Larry and I have recently applied with a mission organization called HCJB Global. I'll give you a little background so you know how we came to this point.

It all started in college at Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos, Tx. Larry and I were both involved with an organization known as the BSM (Baptist Student Ministry). It was during our college years that we both questioned who we really were, and what we believed in. We both found out what it means to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Through organizations like the BSM, Cross Talk, and our college church (Martindale Baptist), we learned how to grow in our walk with God.

God began to speak to our hearts about doing missions before we were ever married. I'll never forget that night at the BSM. We were sitting on different sides of the room, and the service was all about missions. I remember the verse for the evening: Matthew 16:24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." I knew that God was speaking to me about doing missions, even before that night. My question was, did Larry feel the same call? I was scared, very scared. What if he didn't? I felt that God was asking me to give Him everything, even my relationship with Larry. That night we went back to my apartment, and to my amazement, he said that he felt the same thing. We were very naive, b/c we thought we would get married and that 6 months later. . . voi la. . . we'd be on the mission field.

As you know, God has a plan for us. It is a plan with a hope and a future. But before we were to go, we had some lessons we needed to learn first. And that is what we have been up to the past 4 and a half years. Learning, praying, and now-eager to go!

More to come later:-) Yeah! I wrote my first blog!