Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Sunday, June 19, 2011
On the Way Home!
Well our team has begun their journey home. They are currently on a flight to Miami, Fl where they will have a short layover and then will connect to Houston Intercontinental Airport where they will arrive at 12:10 AM tonight!! Please pray for safe and restful travel! We are all anxious to have them home again! (Especially those of us with small kiddos;) We are looking forward to lots of stories and pictures! Thanks for all your prayers! I know that they have made this trip the success that it has been! -Stephanie
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Our Week in Bolivia
We are back in Santa Cruz after a week in the Bolivian lowlands. La Brecha was the community where we camped, drilled, ministered, and spent time our week. What an awesome and humbling experience we had. This area is so remote it is like driving to El Paso on a single lane dirt road, most of which is so ate up with ruts and potholes. The drive is like a constant rally race to keep from getting stuck. In the middle of jungle, cactus, shrubs, wild animals, and livestock communities pop up that seem to spring up out of nowhere and for no apparent reason. These communities have been here forever. Land and homesteads handed down through generations. There are schools and churches, but practically no basic necessities like electricity, running water, and stores. The indigenous population live in ways that we could never imagine, yet they are kind, generous, loving, and happy. We spent 3 days digging 2 water wells and it was back breaking, bone jarring work. Everyone was wiped out by the end of the day. We all smelled bad, looked bad, and our bodies ached, yet I don´t think I heard 1 person say they would not be willing to come back and do it all over again. The blessing that we received from this experience is much more than the blessing that the community received from our water wells.
On the first night there we attended a local church service that seemed to be given just because we were present. Jason spoke for a few moments, Nathan reviewed one of the daily devotionals we had been doing, and I got to share my testimony. All this was done through translation by our foreman. The young ladies of the church sang some beautiful songs for us and it was an awesome, holy experience. I wish I had known the words. One of the things that touched me the most was that this community came out and put on their best for us. They dressed up in their best clothes, they put on their best service, sang their best songs, and opened their doors and hearts. That was all followed by watching the Jesus video in Guarani. I didn´t understand 2 words but that didn´t matter. There were over 200 in attendance which was just amazing. Even though they do not have much in a materialistic sense, they have an abundance of love and kindness. They put on their best for us in everything they did. They were always kind and friendly even though most of us were terrible in our attempts to communicate with them. One thing that was definitely displayed this week is that love knows no language
On the third day, we almost lost the second well. A section of PVC came unscrewed and the well pipe dropped into a 40 meter hole. By the grace of God, Marcos was able to fish the pipè out of the hole hanging on by a thread. Nathan´s Ninja reflexes got a pipe wrench on the pipe before it dropped back into the hole. We then extracted the pipe, reclaimed the hole and completed the well before dark. All to the applause of the local community. It was totally awesome! I found out later, in talking to Mike, that several of us had been silently praything that God would not let our last 2 days work go to waste. How our prayers were answered and answered immediately was just one of the many miracles we have experienced on this trip! Just being able to grab that pipe out of the hole as it hung onto the edge of the fishing apparatus by no more than .25 inches and the quickness and agility of the whole amatuer team working on the well to reclaim is testimony to the presence and goodness of God.
Another blessing and miracle is the team of missionaries we worked with. Danny, Vanessa, Warren, Jackie, Juanita, Marcos, and Eric are absolutely some of the most wonderful people I have ever met. Their love for the Bolivian people is not only evident in the drilling of water wells and bringing in missionary teams, but also in the transition home that they manage in Santa Cruz. I would highly encourage any of the ladies from our church to try and visit this coming fall. We got to spend a little time there today and help move some furniture and it is evident that the hand of God is present in this place and on these ladies. Vanessa, Juanita, Terry, Jamie, and Caeser prepared most of our meals, coordinated our activities, and held bible study and VBS during our trip! That is an amazing load! They literally took care of us like kings. That was not an easy job. For 2 days the wind blew at what seemed like 30 to 50 mph. Sand blew everywhere and into everything yet they made sure we had everything we needed to keep going on the task that lie before us. They had to fight tents being blown over and torn up, yet they kept everything intact and we did not miss a meal, go thirsty, or lose a thing. In fact I probably gained a few pounds! Danny, Marcos, and Eric are excellent at what they do. They were able to take a bunch of individuals with little knowledge for drilling water wells and turn us into a functional, coordinated team in just a few hours. I don´t think there is any problem they could not have resolved.
I also don´t want to leave out the fun we had and the relationships we developed. Trust me, being around 10 plus stinky, testosterone laced men in tents for 4 days is no picnic, yet we bonded and came together for a greater cause. To bring glory to God and to serve Him in whatever capacity we each have. We each have different gifts and abilities, and God gave us all the opportunity to serve Him through serving others this week.
Gideon
On the first night there we attended a local church service that seemed to be given just because we were present. Jason spoke for a few moments, Nathan reviewed one of the daily devotionals we had been doing, and I got to share my testimony. All this was done through translation by our foreman. The young ladies of the church sang some beautiful songs for us and it was an awesome, holy experience. I wish I had known the words. One of the things that touched me the most was that this community came out and put on their best for us. They dressed up in their best clothes, they put on their best service, sang their best songs, and opened their doors and hearts. That was all followed by watching the Jesus video in Guarani. I didn´t understand 2 words but that didn´t matter. There were over 200 in attendance which was just amazing. Even though they do not have much in a materialistic sense, they have an abundance of love and kindness. They put on their best for us in everything they did. They were always kind and friendly even though most of us were terrible in our attempts to communicate with them. One thing that was definitely displayed this week is that love knows no language
On the third day, we almost lost the second well. A section of PVC came unscrewed and the well pipe dropped into a 40 meter hole. By the grace of God, Marcos was able to fish the pipè out of the hole hanging on by a thread. Nathan´s Ninja reflexes got a pipe wrench on the pipe before it dropped back into the hole. We then extracted the pipe, reclaimed the hole and completed the well before dark. All to the applause of the local community. It was totally awesome! I found out later, in talking to Mike, that several of us had been silently praything that God would not let our last 2 days work go to waste. How our prayers were answered and answered immediately was just one of the many miracles we have experienced on this trip! Just being able to grab that pipe out of the hole as it hung onto the edge of the fishing apparatus by no more than .25 inches and the quickness and agility of the whole amatuer team working on the well to reclaim is testimony to the presence and goodness of God.
Another blessing and miracle is the team of missionaries we worked with. Danny, Vanessa, Warren, Jackie, Juanita, Marcos, and Eric are absolutely some of the most wonderful people I have ever met. Their love for the Bolivian people is not only evident in the drilling of water wells and bringing in missionary teams, but also in the transition home that they manage in Santa Cruz. I would highly encourage any of the ladies from our church to try and visit this coming fall. We got to spend a little time there today and help move some furniture and it is evident that the hand of God is present in this place and on these ladies. Vanessa, Juanita, Terry, Jamie, and Caeser prepared most of our meals, coordinated our activities, and held bible study and VBS during our trip! That is an amazing load! They literally took care of us like kings. That was not an easy job. For 2 days the wind blew at what seemed like 30 to 50 mph. Sand blew everywhere and into everything yet they made sure we had everything we needed to keep going on the task that lie before us. They had to fight tents being blown over and torn up, yet they kept everything intact and we did not miss a meal, go thirsty, or lose a thing. In fact I probably gained a few pounds! Danny, Marcos, and Eric are excellent at what they do. They were able to take a bunch of individuals with little knowledge for drilling water wells and turn us into a functional, coordinated team in just a few hours. I don´t think there is any problem they could not have resolved.
I also don´t want to leave out the fun we had and the relationships we developed. Trust me, being around 10 plus stinky, testosterone laced men in tents for 4 days is no picnic, yet we bonded and came together for a greater cause. To bring glory to God and to serve Him in whatever capacity we each have. We each have different gifts and abilities, and God gave us all the opportunity to serve Him through serving others this week.
Gideon
Great Week!
We made it back to the hotel late last night from our water well adventure. Everyone is doing great! We were able to complete two wells in a regional village in the Isosog area of South Bolivia. The people that live in this area speak an Indian language called Guarani. The first well we did was at a church. We loved digging this well for them because it will hopefully help them minister to the people in this area at an even greater level. The day we did this well we were able to participate in a great worship service at night where there were at least a couple hundred people who came to the outdoor service. There was lots of singing and celebration. They asked us to share a little bit so I intro´d our group and thanked them for letting us be a part of their community, Nathan shared a scripture and Gideon did an incredible job sharing his testimony. After that we showed the Jesus film. It was a great night. Day 2 and 3 consisted of drilling a well for the hospital in town. La Brecha was a village of probably 100 or more families but also served as a regional area to the hundreds of other families that lived throughout this region. The hospital only had water available to them when they had diesel(which was hard to come by) to pump their well. We were able to put a well in for them so that they have water now whenever they need it. What a privilege to be part of this project. God is good. Thanks for your prayers! Jason
Friday, June 17, 2011
Back in Santa Cruz
Jason called through Face Time back at the hotel in Santa Cruz tonight. It was great to see his face and let the kids talk to him! They finished their second well after dark last night and got up early this morning to head back to Santa Cruz. Half way between the village and Santa Cruz they pulled off the road for what Jason called the ultimate off road experience! They drove about an hour and half (truly off road, back road, dirt road, etc.) to a scenic hike and overlook. Jason said there were beautiful cliffs and rock arches and at the end of the hike they enjoyed an amazing panoramic view. He said that if the team hadn't felt like they had gotten enough adventure, they certainly got it today! He was tired but seemed very excited about how well the trip has gone! Tomorrow they will have a day of rest and shopping before they fly out Sunday. I know they will have tons of neat stories to tell, since we have only gotten to hear bits and pieces during quick conversations over the satellite phone. The showing of the Jesus Film , which was new this year, seemed to really draw a lot of people. Jason said that he was sure there were at least 250 people that came. Terry and Jamie had lots planned for working with the kids there as well, so I'm anxious to hear their experience. One thing that was exciting for me to hear is that one of our girls from the Ruth Y Naomi transition home, Juanita is who went to be the cook on this trip! It's great to hear that she is doing well! She has graduated culinary school since being at the home and now she can put that into practice!!! Awesome!
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Hundreds see Jesus Film
Hello Friends,
This is Lisa Rodriguez. I spoke with John and Robert early Wednesday morning. Everyone is doing well and feeling super excited. They completed one water well and Monday evening someone had a generator so the team showed the Jesus Film. John said a couple hundred folks walked to see it, they heard about it word-of-mouth. Praise God for the word spreading and allow so many to hear about Christ' sacrifice for all mankind. Everyone is well and have been able to make calls home to relay all the good news.
Robert has been spending time the children in the area which is a larger community than they have visited in the past. This is the reason they are able to do more than one well this trip. They also have a restroom of sorts, no digging holes this trip. Thank you for all your prayers and continue to pray the messege of Christ be spread through this community like the water that will soon be flowing, fresh, free and fulfilling.
This is Lisa Rodriguez. I spoke with John and Robert early Wednesday morning. Everyone is doing well and feeling super excited. They completed one water well and Monday evening someone had a generator so the team showed the Jesus Film. John said a couple hundred folks walked to see it, they heard about it word-of-mouth. Praise God for the word spreading and allow so many to hear about Christ' sacrifice for all mankind. Everyone is well and have been able to make calls home to relay all the good news.
Robert has been spending time the children in the area which is a larger community than they have visited in the past. This is the reason they are able to do more than one well this trip. They also have a restroom of sorts, no digging holes this trip. Thank you for all your prayers and continue to pray the messege of Christ be spread through this community like the water that will soon be flowing, fresh, free and fulfilling.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
1. Complete first water well in a day...Check!
Jason called on the satellite phone this afternoon. It was great to hear his voice and know that they are safe and having a great time. He said they had just completed their first well and all they have to do is cement the pump in! Awesome! For those of you who have been in the past you now that sometimes a well can take 3 or 4 days, so this means great things. The ground is softer and they are able to find water at much shallower levels. They are planning on drilling a well a day while they are there, so they will start on the next one tomorrow. He said that the team was all having a blast and loving every minute. They are staying on the property of a little Assembly of God church that was started by a Korean missionary and traveling a couple of miles each day to the community to drill. Jason let some of the team members call and let their family members know that they were there. It was a quick call but I know everyone back home was excited to hear news from them!
They made it...I think!?
Well, I didn't know when we would hear from the team, so I was a little surprised when last night at 9 o'clock I checked my phone and saw that at 8:23 there were missed calls from a really long number that appeared to be the satellite phone. We were outside playing with the kids and came in about 8:40, so we just missed him!!! :( I tried to call back, but no connection. He didn't leave a message and called several times within that 15 min. period, so I think he was having difficulty making a connection. Jason had told me that he would probably let a couple members of the team call home to let everyone know they were there, but no one else has heard, so I am assuming they are having difficulty getting a signal. He hasn't tried to call back, so I am assuming there is no emergency and they made it there and that is why he called. They are probably busy getting the well started this morning. I will keep everyone updated if he tries to call again! Please keep them in your prayers as they work very hard to give the people of Bolivia clean drinking water and share about Christ! ~Stephanie
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Face Time
We got to talk to our guys tonight on Face Time. Technology is such a wonderful thing! They are getting everything ready to leave at 5 in the morning to take the 7-8 hour trip to the village. They asked for extra prayer because there have been threats of road blocks, which is why they are leaving so early. In Bolivia, there is a big gap between the rich and the poor and a lot of political friction between 2 parties. So... when the poorer class party wants the government to do something, they stage road blocks in protest. This delayed our team by about 27 hours a couple of years ago. (And definitely increased the adventure aspect of the trip, driving through winding dirt roads and holding the bus up around curves!) This year, they are hoping to get through ahead of any road blocks, so keep them in your prayers. The only contact we will have the next 5 days will be through a satellite phone. Jason said that he would let us know that they made it safely, but that is probably all we will hear while they are in the village...in tents...with no electricity...or running water....remember that's why they are there drilling a well! This will have a huge impact on this village!! Be praying for their safety and for God to prepare the hearts of the people of the village to receive His word! So, on the night before they enter the jungles of Bolivia, to prepare for all the ministry they are going to have there, our boys are watching the Mavericks in Spanish!!! Yay Mavericks!!! That's all for now! I will keep you updated as I hear anything else! Thanks for your prayers! -Stephanie
Waiting for news...
Hey Guys...this is Stephanie
Well, we know the team has landed safely in Santa Cruz. They got off the plane no doubt to a wonderful Bolivian breakfast with fresh fruit and juice (Bolivian fruit is awesome!) Im jealous! We are still waiting any further word. Jason has tried to call a couple of times from his Ipad, but we haven't been able to connect, yet. I'm just glad to know they are safe. They are getting rested for a big trip tomorrow down south to the village where they will be drilling. Keep them in your prayers, as road travel is not quite what it is in the U.S. (that is a huge understatement!) I'll keep you posted as I hear more!!!
Well, we know the team has landed safely in Santa Cruz. They got off the plane no doubt to a wonderful Bolivian breakfast with fresh fruit and juice (Bolivian fruit is awesome!) Im jealous! We are still waiting any further word. Jason has tried to call a couple of times from his Ipad, but we haven't been able to connect, yet. I'm just glad to know they are safe. They are getting rested for a big trip tomorrow down south to the village where they will be drilling. Keep them in your prayers, as road travel is not quite what it is in the U.S. (that is a huge understatement!) I'll keep you posted as I hear more!!!
Second time Around
Robert and I are serving together again along with other BPF team members in 2011. Second time around for this father/son team. Putting God first was a challenge this year. Lots of work obstacles and limited time with family before departure. Pray for God's here in Bolivia and back home with our family members. I would not have missed this for the world. A few airport, visa, and luggage issues but things were otherwise uneventful. Long road trip tomorrow followed by hopefully a bountiful 4 days drilling for clean water.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
...and they are off!
The Bolivia Team is officially at the airport. I think they are all eager to get there. :) 8 members of the team have been before, so there are 6 newbies ready for adventure! Saying good-bye for 9 days leaves room for adventures both on the state-side and in Bolivia. (Like, when my husband decided to start potty training our 2 year old this morning and then leaves the country! hahaha- I'm ok with it. It will be and interesting week!)
I'm looking forward to hearing what God is going to do this week!
Bye Daddy! Love, Sarah & Caleb
Thursday, June 9, 2011
And They're Off...
We have another team headed to Bolivia! This is a water well team that will be working in the jungle. (We will be sending a Ruth & Noemi Transition Home team to Santa Cruz later in the year.)
This team will leave on Saturday, June 11. Here is how you can be praying:
-Pray for the last minute details as they prepare to GO
-Pray for safety as they travel to Bolivia and in country
-Pray for success in drilling the water wells
-Pray for connections and catalyst opportunities with natives
-Pray for our friends and partners: missionaries Danny & Vanessa Beams, and family; and Warren & Jackie McCaig and family
-Pray for long-term relationships between BPF and a Bolivian community or people group
Check back often. Just keep in mind that when the team is in the jungle - they have no communication (other than a satellite phone that is used for emergency only). But, we will update as often as we hear some news!
This team will leave on Saturday, June 11. Here is how you can be praying:
-Pray for the last minute details as they prepare to GO
-Pray for safety as they travel to Bolivia and in country
-Pray for success in drilling the water wells
-Pray for connections and catalyst opportunities with natives
-Pray for our friends and partners: missionaries Danny & Vanessa Beams, and family; and Warren & Jackie McCaig and family
-Pray for long-term relationships between BPF and a Bolivian community or people group
Check back often. Just keep in mind that when the team is in the jungle - they have no communication (other than a satellite phone that is used for emergency only). But, we will update as often as we hear some news!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)