Dear loved ones,
My brother-in law Juan apologized to me, wanting to help more with the physical work. He is pictured in the blue shirt in front. We thank God that he has recovered nicely from a recent heart procedure. Pastor Juan sends out a devotional almost every day to his flock, and works continually to advance the Kingdom. And it was Pastor Juan, at least partly from his hospital bed, that helped gather the pastors for a couple days of working together at our mission base. Two thumbs way up Juan.
“And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”
As you might imagine, a random gathering of pastors with varying skill sets was a challenge to organize. That was a lot of chiefs! And understandably, we laughed together as we noticed that nobody particularly wanted to handle “Jack” and break that rock we needed leveled for the last footing of the new sanctuary! Three of the guys took turns and had it broken down in mere hours. Victor and the boys continued the following week or so on the foundation. The foundation for the new sanctuary is done! Just over 3 ton of rebar reinforcement tied in thus far…
While Victor and the boys were finishing up the foundation the next week, I slipped away with Juan for a men’s conference in Puebla, and from there we took a bus over to see our fellow warrior Chayo in Cuernavaca. Pastor Chayo was unable to attend the conference, battling his own health issues. He recently endured yet another procedure on his prostate. It was wonderful to see him, Betty, and the 10 kids running around Miracle of Life!
Pastor Chayo apologized to me for not being able to come and help with construction due to his failing sight and other health issues. We encouraged each other as I marveled at the beauty and power of the love of Christ demonstrated in the home. 24/7 He and Betty are constantly engaged. It’s amazing.
“Therefore, most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” –Corinthians 12:8-10
Our dear friends Pastor Al and Sandy Gaines came down from Minnesota for a visit recently. We battled the sheetrock and then asked Victor and the boys for help! We finished the framing details, some wiring and got the cabins addition rocked! And fought our weaknesses. Then I took on the taping, but that’s another story…9 buckets of fun.
As the years pass by, and my own strength (or lack thereof) is called into question on a daily, almost moment-by-moment basis, I’m becoming much more aware of the glorious power of Christ that rests upon us. Although I’d have to talk to Paul about just what he means when he wrote most gladly, I understand it at least in part.
For when I am weak, then I am strong
It’s been feeling like the early years this last couple of months, every peso is being considered, and every effort to continue moving forward is being made. God is providing!
And they sang responsively, praising and giving thanks to the Lord:
“For He is good, For His mercy endures forever toward Israel. Then all the people shouted with a great shout, when they praised the Lord, because the foundation of the house of the Lord was laid.”
-Ezra 3:11
Thank you to all of you supporting our lives and ministry in Mexico. In my weakness, God has always shown Himself through you. God bless you. I’m already looking forward to sending the next update…and taking the next step forward toward glory. By the time you receive this, we hope to have the doors set, rooms painted, and most of the siding put on as well in the cabins area! Our friend Rod and 4 friends from Rushford, MN are coming down to help advance. Also, by next letter, I hope we can have the floor poured for the new sanctuary and all the rubble cleared out as well.
We are preparing to receive our first camp in August and booking events for late this year as we continue forward in construction with the sanctuary and outside roof etc…
Prayer requests/ praise reports:
Last letter, I mentioned the kids we are connected to in Salinas, Victoria. We have known most of the children for years. They are enduring yet more trauma as government authorities have removed all the leadership once again. These kids have endured more trauma than I can go into on this letter, and were moved out of their former home by government authorities as well. The situation is delicate, but we (especially Minnie) have found favor with the officials in charge. They want our help, and we are navigating the maze. Please pray for these kids and our wisdom and resolve with them, as well as our work in Cuernavaca.
Speaking of Cuernavaca,
It was so nice to be back there and see things running, and kids running! This year has been so intense, but the kids and their stories help bring things into perspective for me. The 10 hugs goodnight helped too.
I also enjoyed playing chess with 8-year-old Leo. Trying to remember how to play was a great challenge, since I hadn’t played in about 45 years! I pulled off a great victory for the U.S. Barely…my comeuppance is coming soon.
Preaching at Teen Conference August 3rd
Preaching at East Lincoln August 24th
Also, FORE!! We will be having our (almost) annual golf tournament and dinner/ fundraiser on Friday, August 29th in Amery, WI
Please save the date if you’re in the area!
love from, Gary and Minnie and Sophia, along with all your family in Mexico.