Bolivia – Page 2 – Jeff & Angie

Bolivia, breast cancer, faith, Ministry, Missions, New Year

Life Stuff and General UP-date

December 31, 2016 A. Knight

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Well friends, Christmas 2016 is in the memory bank and the New Year is upon us. Right around the corner-so-to-speak. In a matter of hours. Has already happened for some of our friends living in other parts of the world…

Many unexpected things happened this year–many things I journaled–God words to my heart- for me alone-and some that I will share with you.

Several members of our family have gone through their own ordeals-as I am sure yours has as well. Seems the devil is ever on his job–but we KNOW that God is watchful and is equipping us all for the battles that lie ahead…and are currently ongoing. He is our strong deliverer–and HIGH TOWER.

We just KNEW we would be preparing to leave for Costa Rica (language school) this month-but God had other plans–and we humbly and gladly submit to what HE has planned because we are in this for HIS glory, not anything for our own selves.

I think that it’s specifically powerful that the verse of the day from BibleGateway.com is this:

I am the Lord, who opened a way through the waters, making a dry path through the sea. “But forget all that— it is nothing compared to what I am going to do. For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland. Isaiah 43:16, 18-19 NLT

Years ago, The LORD brought this passage to my attention when I was going through a particularly difficult battle, today, it’s needed just as much. A reminder that HE is in charge and NEW things are on the horizon.

Jeff and I are still working on our monthly commitments, meaning: we will need your help. We are getting closer, but we still have much to do to get there. We can’t do this without God lay it upon the hearts of others to help us for the next two years.

Beyond that, I don’t know what God has in store. We will gladly stay in Bolivia until He calls us home–or we will go wherever HE sends next, but this we know–we must do what He has laid on our hearts to do. That is, work with the children in the schools He has opened up to us in Santa Cruz, and continue to build churches for the villages where there is no Gospel Door open.

There have been extreme forces fighting against us- the biggest one it seems, cancer. But, we are over half way to completion of my treatments, only 6 more to go out of the 16. The next step is radiation for 6 weeks and I have a dear friend who is currently walking that road just ahead of me.

God had the right team lined up for this medical mission on this side, and I have no doubt He will continue. My biggest problem is on the days I feel good, I try and do as much as I possibly can to make up for the days I can’t. For a “doer”, this has been a rough go. However, I have done well I think, and from what my oncologist has said, a “prize pupil”, or patient. That’s all God’s doing, and all because of the mighty team of prayer warriors who have diligently sought God on my behalf. Thank YOU! You are a HUGE part of this mission team!

Jeff has delivered his heart in many churches over the past year, I participated in the delivery until “chemo-brain” sort of held me back, but they say this is all reversible and I look forward with great anticipation to the day when I can bring a “word” again. For now, I smile, hug necks, shake hands and am glad to be in the mix of things! If you are wondering why you see so little of me in blogland, this is why. I want to give God my BEST, but for these past few months of treatments, it seems I struggle with writing as well as talking.

It has felt so odd being a “by-stander” when I have always loved being in the middle of what God is doing, but I have “felt” His presence nonetheless. And it has been powerful. Believe me, I’m taking notes. I have been writing in my prayer journal to record for later, this road. Though muddy, messy and ankle twisting at times, it is one that I have seen God do miraculous things and I wouldn’t go back and change a thing…

We have just a few months to be ready to go. If you are interested in helping us monthly, go to this site: www.tinyurl.com/sendjeffandangie (You can also give one time donations–we are eternally grateful for any and all help!) We plan to leave in May, 2017. We have already started packing…

Have you ever tried to do something that YOU KNEW God was leading you on and had the enemy fight so hard that you struggled in your heart to keep you focus clear? That’s where I am tonight. I KNOW God has called us– He woke me with ideas earlier this week for the children… and just as quick as I get excited about that–the enemy comes and tries to steal the joy from that.

We can’t see all that is ahead, but we know and trust the Hand that leads us. We will not stop until we feel we have done all that He has required of us. He is doing a NEW thing in this NEW YEAR and we are excited to be doing our part!

The road up ahead will have curves, hills and even rough terrain, but HE is with us…all the way. We are looking forward to seeing you in 2017!

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Bolivia, Missions

A Note From April Pettis- Crusade Leader

June 8, 2015October 21, 2016 A. Knight

What an incredible week! I thank God for the opportunity to serve him. I thank each person who gave of their money, supplies, and prayers. Lives were changed in Bolivia…both Bolivian’s and Orange Team members.

To the Orange Team members:
Thank you for positive and obedient attitudes.

Thank you for “going with the flow” when direction changed, or when asked to rush and asked to wait.

Thank you for having a servant’s heart.

Floyd, thank you for leading the “set up/break down crew”. You all had this down to an art. I knew when we set foot on each campus the “stage” would be set and ready to go within 10 minutes. Thank you for being willing to help with the object lesson. I believe this visual will stick in the minds of everyone who saw it.

Sandi, Than you for heading up the puppet and game crew. You always had everything ready to go. You made each transition behind the curtain smooth. Your positive attitude when things changed was so appreciated. When given a task, you ran with it. Thank you.

Chase A., Thank you buddy for all your help. From helping set up, to passing out candy, to helping with an object lesson and anything else I asked….I really appreciate you. The world needs more teenagers willing to give up some summer activities to share God’s love around the world. Thank you.

Chase C., You helped in so many areas. From setting up, to entertaining kids, to demonstrating games….so many things…you were always willing to pitch in. I so appreciate everything.

Shelly, You always had that beautiful smile. It made an impact on many lives. You were such a big help with the puppets and each game. Even doing a little ballet with some of the girls. I know they will remember this for a long time. I thank you and Chase very much for taking a week away from home and your sweet girls to touch the lives of so many who needed to see and feel your love and attention.

Mr. Aubrey, you were a constant. I always knew you were behind me. You did an awesome job manning the sound equipment. Your encouraging words meant so much. Not to mention the many children who flocked to you to see what your hands would create next. We may never know just how much a “stick” affected each life.

Cindy, you are the best mother-in-law. I am so blessed to serve with you. You are one of the hardest working people I know–you helped in so many ways. I cannot thank you enough. Anything I asked, you were there. Your heart is so sweet and obedient. I love you very much. Thank you.

Lacy, you are such a sweetheart. I cannot thank you enough for all that you did this past week. Your willingness to serve however needed was invaluable. Your passion for Jesus is very evident. I cannot wait to see what God has in store for your ministry. Thank you.

Daniel, you were such a big help in so many ways. From helping physically each day during services to being our comedic entertainment. You kept us laughing with your stories and tales. You were a blessing to have with us this week. Thank you to you and Lacy for taking off a week from your jobs and leaving your children behind to work for Jesus.

Mother, you make me so proud to be your daughter. Your willingness to step in at any moment was awesome. Thank you for helping with lessons and entertainment. Thank you for sacrificing time you could have spent doing other things to take photos of all of us. Thank you for your constant encouraging words. I love you more…

Daddy, I could not be more proud of you. You are an amazing leader. You too, were so willing to do anything needed and asked. Your positive attitude and obedience was constant. Thank you for all that you are. I cannot wait to see what all God has in store for you and mother.

David (George), you make me so proud. You are always willing to wear anything silly, act out any skit, and make yourself vulnerable to make kids laugh. Thank you for your support. I am so happy that I get to travel this journey of life with you. I love you.

Serving Him Together,
April Pettis

Now from Jeff and Angie,
We ditto everything April said- you all were the best we could have hoped for. April, as your parents, we could not be more proud of you. You excel in all you put your heart and mind to–and this was no different. We love and appreciate you. You depict a true leader with a servants heart. There is no other kind.

We can’t wait for the next one!

Bolivia

Wearing Orange

June 8, 2015October 28, 2020 A. Knight

The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. Those who know Your name trust in You because You have not abandoned those who seek You, LORD.

Psalm 9:9-10 HSCB

Orange. Bright. Easy to spot in a crowd. When the masses that surround you have black hair and darker skin, and your bunch is fair skinned you really don’t need an orange shirt to stand out…

When we were getting our shirts and deciding on a color, orange seemed to yell, “pick me!” “Make a decision to stand out and be counted for Christ~put ME on and lay your all on the altar!” Wearing Orange… It might cost you some time, vacation money, and possibly other extravagances….

Or, it might cost you your life.

Just like the persecuted Church. They are easy to see from a distance.

It has been difficult to process some things we’ve encountered. One particular day. Wednesday–when our friends in our home towns were getting ready for Wednesday night Bible Study, we were riding back to the hotel, sweaty, exhausted and spent. That’s what we came for.

When we begin this and all mission trips, we pray for God to direct our steps and our path–and we leave it entirely up to Him on the “how and when”. This trip had a fully loaded fact. Heart wrenching, emotional fact.

We encountered a young girl who had suffered abuse at the hands of a step-brother. Had, in fact, been suffering in silence for 2 years. It began when she was younger than 10 years old–in her prepubescent years the assaults began. And she could tell no one. Likely he threatened her life, and possibly the life of her mother.

Our paths crossed for a purpose and each of our lives will never be the same. The team did not get to meet her or pray with her, but our Focus Forward Ministries team did–and hug her and give her a Bible and hope. Hope that is only found in Christ Jesus.

It was no accident that this young girl, barely thirteen, now a child-mom of a 3-month old, encountered a team of orange wearing soldiers of the cross who would not back down from the pain that her wounds inflicted on each of our hearts. We could do something. Jeff and I will be sharing her story, along with our mission and purpose as we are able to meet with pastors and be in churches in the coming months. It is a story and a purpose that has become embedded in each of our hearts.

Wearing orange gave us a particular boldness as we all remembered what our brothers and sisters in Christ were experiencing in their stand and statements. Their stand, to remain associated with Jesus–their statement to not back down.

When our Presbyters wore orange ties at the recent District Council, they wore them in recognition for the persecuted church. When I looked at the sea of orange as we filed off the bus, I remembered another single file line when I looked at the first group of Christians about to be beheaded. I can’t even think of it now without crying.

Of the thousands of photographs I took, there are those that have a special place in my heart. You may get tired of reading–and tired of looking at so much orange….but friend, this was one trip I am so glad I didn’t miss.

I may bleed red–but my heart boldly wears orange.

Whether they prayed sincerely, or simply bowed their heads because they were asked to is not ours to know–it’s between them and God….but the fact remains: They were given an opportunity by a bunch of orange-t-shirt-wearing-believers who gave up a normal vacation for a trip to their country to give them a chance to know HIM.

To be continued….

Bolivia, Missions

Harvest Time

June 5, 2015October 28, 2020 A. Knight

If I started this blog with the phrase, “What an incredible week this has been”, I would not nearly come close to the truth.

There have been spiritual battles fought–and won. There have been encounters that were God ordained. And there have been tests and trials along this journey. Tests of obedience (Jeff’s topic of devotion this week), and tests of patience….and tests of endurance.

I silently watch and observe how those that come with us are affected by the surroundings we are in–and constantly, I am amazed at how great is the love of Christ that continues to build in this team for the “world”. Almost all individuals goes home wanting to do MORE in their own neighborhood–every -single- time. The needs here in Bolivia reminds each of us of the needs at home.

There are faces that will be in our dreams each night and our prayers every day–hopefully forever.

Mr. Aubrey Graves is a child magnet. It’s so funny to watch as the children crowd around him to see what he’s doing. It’s amazing how two little sticks can bright a child’s day. Even a random child who possibly has no other toys–never had a toy given by a stranger. To see the expressions on their faces…I don’t have to tell you about the emotion that follows.

Today we will go to two unscheduled schools. They were not on our plan, but they were totally on God’s plan. We had a visit to a church site yesterday, scoped out the school area–a very–VERY poor area. This child is in the area. I asked her mother permission to take photos, she smiled and nodded. They are humble and kind.

Our plans are to make an impact next year in this village, as God leads our team, Focus Forward Ministries, Inc., in all the ways we can. The needs are plenteous — everywhere your eyes land.

35 And Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction. 36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; 38 therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” Matthew 9:35-38

Bolivia, Missions

From Chipley, Kinard, and Marianna, Florida–all the way to Bolivia

June 2, 2015October 28, 2020 A. Knight

Where do I begin? I hardly know.

I have watched a young couple become so in love with the people, the mission, and more with Jesus than one would imagine, especially since they already loved Jesus.

I have watched our daughter lead our team to teach, encourage, bless and bring out the giggles in hundreds of children, through puppets, games and lessons.

I have watched this amazing team of Focus Forward Ministries take steps of faith to become what God had planned–and I have watched as God brought out the best in each member that He put together with us for this trip. God always finds a way to amaze.

Today was no different. I am going to talk Chase Curti into starting a blog so he can share his story from two years ago- that we all have watched God unfold before our eyes. The devotion Jeff has been sharing (thus far) has been concerning obedience. Sometimes our flesh will talk us right out of obeying simply because we don’t want to look idiotic to others, or even to draw attention to ourselves. There’s not a member of this team that is the “look at me” type–and often it’s the quiet ones (like Chase) that God requires us to do something that puts us “out there” to become involved in an out-loud kind of way in other peoples lives.

I want the full story to come from Chase, so whether he tells it to me again for me to write, or I convince him to begin a blog– you will at some point get to hear the whole story. For now know this: God is asking us all to make steps of faith and obey Him in something- even right now. Every day. We just often ignore it. That was free 🙂

Now, on to the mission. We arrived Sunday morning an hour later due to some aircraft issues…yes, we always want those addressed before we get in the air. Always.

We have stayed in the same hotel every single trip to Bolivia since we started in 2011. Every year without exception there is some sort of issue–and God always has a way of using it to stretch our patience and help us realize that things are different in other parts of the world…and there really are things that we have grown so accustomed to–that we take for granted at home. Such as, hot water. And clean water. When several of us turned on our faucets to shower out came black specks and dingy water. What did we do? Took a shower anyway.

There is generally other issues to work through–and this team has taken every obstacle like champs. If you are the pastor of any of these, you know already of their servants heart–but let me tell you it really shines in missions.

The reward? These beautiful and amazing faces.

They are making a mark on our lives this week…and we pray that the mark we make on theirs will be a marked change for Christ. It is our hope, desire and purpose.

This team will go home with burning, churning testimonies–and I hope that you will invite those who are in your church to tell their story. It’s needs to be told. It needs to be heard. Before the week is over–it will be more powerful than they can imagine. I already know that. God always does the amazing…

Please continue to pray for health–safety and for the lost hearts to find Jesus. We had many children raise their hands in response to the message today– pray that they’re little hearts are impacted with the Gospel.

Tomorrow we will hand out the Bibles many contributed to purchase–as well as school supplies. And a dear friend donated some totes to be used–and God really did something amazing–the number is correct with the number of teachers at two of the schools!

Did I mention God was AMAZING??

Pray for good weather on Friday– the pastor we are working through has found two new schools that we didn’t already have on our schedule… we will do two programs with them! Pray for the team members as well as the children.

Tomorrow we will get to interact with the parents of one of the schools children! ANOTHER unexpected blessing!

I took over 1000 pictures today. I’m hoping to pull a few each night to share. The best ones I will save for our mission book for the team.

I’m closing it down for the night. Have a blessed day tomorrow and remember to pray for the team!

Bolivia

Lasting Impressions

April 14, 2015October 28, 2020 A. Knight

Have you ever wanted to do something that made a lasting impression? A good one. I’ve encountered my share of bad impressions, and they’ve lasted a while, but good impressions, I believe last longer. Good impressions live in the hearts and minds of others and in times of heartache, a good impression is often retrieved for comfort.

Do you enjoy giving a long thought out gift for a dear friend or loved one? They see you–and know you love them and care for their well being. But, let me share with you something I discovered:

Often in giving, the best feeling is knowing they don’t have to know who you are. The recording of your love and compassion is recorded for all eternity.

The greatest joy for me, is watching these teachers receive what YOU gave. If you could see into the eyes and hearts of these teachers and the principal (standing beside Jeff), you would experience the joy of giving–as never before. It was like Christmas to these.

Necessary items that our schoolers take for granted, these do not. We are so accustomed to running to the dollar store or local wally-world that we forget there are those who have no such luxury.

Luxury? A trip to the dollar store?

Indeed.

These teachers (and there are about 9 not pictured), have the joy of teaching and training the next generation–but they must do so with such limited income and in order to teach, most of them give more than just their time. They give their income.

In order to have paper for the students, the teachers buy it.

To color, write or draw, more often than not, the tool comes from the teachers. We discovered that in order to make copies, the teacher has to travel about 30 minutes to a neighboring town to make copies because the school had no copier or printer. The Lord supplied that need through someone who sent with us a copier for the principal. And several purchased print cartridges.

This past year, we took more supplies and more printers. Three to be exact. So that the teachers could all have access to things that are needed in the class room. God burdened someone’s heart with that treasure for the school at Don Lorenzo.

This year, we are traveling back, but to 4 different schools. We hope, through generous donations to be able to take supplies, and even a printer or two. The school supplies are of utmost importance. Through your gifts of crayons, pencils, sharpeners, rulers, glue, etc. we are able to bless them and help with the education process of these growing children.

This little girl (Ruth), who every team member came to love in 2013, needed a new walker. We took up an offering among us and had enough to buy her a nice walker that will grow with her and help her navigate the dirt road where she lives–and we made a lasting impact on her life.

We really never know what needs we will encounter that we aren’t expecting. But, rest assured, we always encounter needs.

The needs are there.

The needs are often more than we can meet.

But with the help of friends back home, we can. It takes us all working together to bear the burden for others.

We will take new testaments for the children, and gifts for the teachers, through the very generous donations from a group of women in a local church, they have supplied us with handmade pot holders! (We are beyond excited!)

So, maybe you have read all this and wonder, “what can I do to make a lasting impression”. I’m glad you asked!

We are taking New Testaments, soccer balls with scripture on them, and school supplies. You may simply make your check out to Focus Forward Ministries, Inc. and drop it in the mail to Post Office Box 5773, Marianna, Florida 32447, and mark it Mission to Bolivia. We leave May 30 and hope to take boxes of generous love and donations to those we have grown to love and care about!

IF you are near us and would like to drop off a box to us to pack with our belongings, you know where we live! We gratefully accept your support and prayers!

And, if you know us well, you know that God has been working in our hearts for a “new step of faith”…and we sure would appreciate all your prayers. Really.

Time is short–and our desire is to do all we can–with every breath in our bodies, until He calls us home. we want our impression to be Jesus. And He is everlasting.

Bolivia

Holding Emmanuel

November 17, 2014October 28, 2020 A. Knight

100_3976Emmanuel Sounds more like a Christmas post…and maybe it will be- but it’s been on my mind. The feeling from holding him.

Emmanuel.

One of the guys from our ministry team is making Christmas ornaments to sell as a way to raise funds for upcoming projects and when I saw the ornaments, one ornament, emblazoned with His name, reminded me of the baby in Bolivia. And the Baby in Bethlehem.

Every single one of us is drawn to the babies, and this was my one chance to hold him without one of the others trying to get at him. I held my hands out, he leaned in and I took him. Soft baby. Freshly washed baby fragrance, I inhaled deep. Remembering my own babies. And their babies. I asked his name. “Emmanuel”, she said. No translation needed. I felt my heart speed up with my writer’s mind whirling–I was “holding Emmanuel”. The other team members had oooed and aahhed over him, a few had held him–without knowing his name. But I asked–because names are important to me–I like to connect somehow with those that I talk with–even when through a translator.

He leaned his little head on my shoulder and I began to whisper a prayer of thanksgiving for him, a prayer of protection, and for God to create in him a strong desire to serve and follow Emmanuel, God with us. Jesus Christ. Son of God. Tears (which seemed to come often this trip) burned, mixed with the dust that was flying that morning, I was so –so- so grateful to God for this moment. For me to recognize a “God moment”.

To hold Emmanuel–we must recognize our need for Him. Holding Emmanuel is a privilege. We must seek Him. Just as the wise men and shepherds, we will find Him when we do.

And, when we hold Him, it will change us.

The holding. It’s a purposeful act–a deliberate decision to wrap our arms, minds and heart around Him. Measure the feeling when you hold a baby. Is it possible? I don’t think it’s quite measurable. The feeling itself encapsulates our being. We are privileged to have experienced that opportunity. But–God didn’t decide to come to earth as a baby –just for us…..He came for the world. (John 3:16)

So that we all might have the opportunity…and there are millions who don’t know. Millions who have never been afforded the chance to hold Emmanuel. Never had an introduction. What are we doing about them?

Dare we look in their eyes and say, “I’m sorry…. we cannot give you the chance to know Jesus…you live too far away”….

“Your life is too different than mine”.

Those words won’t hold up in court. The Court. We will all stand for our own selves. And what we did when we were given the opportunity to hold Emmanuel–will come to light. Did we hold Him? Did we share Him? Give– so that others might know Him? Go so that others might See Him? Live? –so that others might want Him? Do we pray so that they might find Him?

Holding Emmanuel changed me. I wanted to stay there–and help his mother. I wanted to be her friend.

But I knew –for now, I couldn’t stay. I handed him back with a prayer and a promise that I would indeed do my part to see that others like him, and his mother–and those other little ones running around playing would have the opportunity to hold Emmanuel. And know Him. And serve Him.

Father, I thank You for that trip. For all the things You showed us–and all that we experienced. I pray that we brought glory and honor to You and not shame in all that we did. I ask that the fire we felt in our souls that week–burn even stronger as we make plans to return–and make plans to go beyond the comfort zone of our lives–as we embark on unknown places to reach the unreached. Let our feet and hearts follow Yours. May we bring You glory daily–until we’re Home. In Your most holy name–Amen.

Bolivia

Good Morning Bolivia!

October 3, 2014October 28, 2020 A. Knight

This was the first trip–mission wise, or otherwise that I didn’t blog constantly. But….a lot of things came from that. I looked and listened more.

I observed and made notes– and I hope to share those with you in the coming weeks…but first let me show you what we did–in pictures. 🙂

Every year, I say the same thing: “This was the best mission trip I’ve been on”….and every year, it’s the absolute truth. I say it again, emphatically. This was one amazing.

We had an incredible team of builders–and helpers–all working in harmony–getting the job done. The church was built -and friendships were forged. We had a great team of children’s ministry leaders –a combination of 3 churches working together to bring Christ to a village and sow seeds in the hearts of hundreds of kids. God was glorified in all the efforts of love and compassion!

YOU provided school supplies and soccer balls to give to these in this village, and 2 additional villages/schools that we were granted an OPEN DOOR. God opened doors we were not expecting! BUT HE provided IN ADVANCE–through all the contributions!

The MISSION BALL—was the biggest blessing to so many! It will be a continual part of every trip we take. THANK YOU to their team— who obeyed God–and jumped out there and created such an incredible witnessing tool! WOW! There are some stories to come from that ball. Chase Curti was the guy behind the scenes working to raise all the funds to purchase those and we are SO grateful!

There is some exciting news that Jeff and I want to share–but I have just a few more things to work on before I throw it out there. God has been leading and guiding us on every trip–and we have given everything in prayer and seeking Him for direction. We pray still as we take this leap of faith into the unknown of following HIM. (the leap has taken place)

I hope to be able to put pen to paper (via blog) and let you know the exciting things God has been stirring in our hearts.

In the meantime–keep praying–God is working already on the path ahead. Although we can’t see it all, we know the way to take….following His steps….

Thank you to Carmel Assembly of God, Grace Assembly and New Life Fellowship, for praying, giving and going. May God richly bless all your mission endeavors! Both here, and there.

Brothers and sisters, I can’t consider myself a winner yet. This is what I do: I don’t look back, I lengthen my stride, and 14 I run straight toward the goal to win the prize that God’s heavenly call offers in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:13-14 GWT

We remain….”Focused Forward”

Bolivia

Bolivia 2014

August 31, 2014October 28, 2020 A. Knight

I am tired–but so blessed. So happy. So “in my spot”.

Not as much the place as the position. The position of “giving all”.

This has been the most unique year–which I believe God has orchestrated and planned all the details.

How we arrived would be considered by some, nothing short of a miracle…in many cases- it was just that.

Tonight, after a great church service (Jeff preached–Joel translated–a few comical moments–and David and Nolan shared their life changing experience, I sit back in our room recalling all that God has shown me about me–and the fact that daily we learn more about “us” as a people, and God’s love and grace.

I think it’s a vital part of Christian growth to discover who we are–even in the stuff that’s not attractive…and it’s in those times and places where we allow God to navigate us back in line and give us insight into why and how we do certain things.

Rest assured, the enemy knows our weaknesses and he knows just the nugget to get us distracted and off course…and he will use it in everyone of us–every time. Anything to thwart God’s plan.

I have heard some amazing stories today. The interpreter I was going to have was unable to join us–so another one was selected. Faviana has the most amazing stories–and I enjoyed hearing each one. What a loving God–to give us such assignments! I cannot wait to share with you some of the things she told me….this was truly one of God’s Big Deal Changeroo’s. I love that about Him. I’ll share part of her story tomorrow with a picture.

Today we went to Pastor Andy’s church–and I was honored to be able to share the Word. When Jeff told me I was supposed to preach–it sort of caught me a little off guard–only for a few minutes–then “The Holy Spirit” reminded me that He had already given me a word for today…

I’ll share more of that later, I do want to leave you with a couple of pictures… 🙂 (internet service is extremely slow or I would have uploaded a video I shot today).

For those of you with loved ones here…they are doing well. The LORD has been amazing. They will come home different. They will come home and likely hold you a bit longer…and appreciate the blessings of God with fresh eyes…and I really believe…that some “callings and decisions” are being solidified this week.

Let’s pick this up tomorrow… this chicken has got to get some sleep… (Olivia must be fresh in the morning!–Not to mention Sully!)

Bolivia

Duct Taped Suitcases

August 26, 2014October 28, 2020 A. Knight

Duct tape sticks out.  Especially when it's BRIGHT.  It's also something that will get confiscated.  Don't worry...we didn't "pack" any duct tape--we just used it to identify our precious cargo.

We packed supplies Sunday night.  The chatter going on, the excitement felt in the room was palpable.  I imagine those who have gone before had a face in mind...one that we met in 2011 and have watched change, grow and become familiar--and even miss.  Some of the team have talked about about the kids or adults there--with such love and concern, as we do our friends and family here with us on a day-to-day basis.

Those who have not been, their excitement about this trip is something I truly enjoy watching.  I remember my first trip...clothes packed weeks before, now, I confess, my suitcase is still in storage--I've been busy 🙂  But by Friday it will be packed and I will work on putting some order to my house.

If you are a regular reader, you have watched, listened, and hopefully been moved by the Holy Spirit as you have followed us on many mission trips.  I haven't looked at the countdown today, but I know it's near.  I want to ask you-- and I'll understand if it slips your mind--but as often as you can--as often as we come to your mind, would you pray?  Especially as we are taking this team through customs.  It's the largest team we've taken.  I've been involved in larger teams--but this is the largest team we've taken.  And I would really like to know you're praying for the passing through customs to be the smoothest we've ever experienced.

Our steps are purposed.  We will likely stick out like duct taped suitcases.  We have a mission to complete.  It started when we said "yes".  Every step toward this next week has been planned by our Father...even the DELAYS.

We packed over 400 Bibles.  53 Soccer Balls, hundreds of crayons, books, and a multitude of assorted miscellaneous items that were donated...and over 300 shirts that was donated--brand new--for the kids.

We packed these things--because YOU gave these things.  This was an unprecedented giving.  And I believe I just heard in my spirit, "You ain't seen nothing yet".  I believe God pulls out all the stops for His kids.

I feel God stirring a New Passion in my heart as never before.  Yesterday, that old feeling that creeps up every trip--tried again.  But in the HOLY Name of Jesus-- I claim new territory for Christ...and believe God for MORE than ever before.

When I came out to my prayer closet this morning--praying was on my mind.  Hearing from Him was on my mind....but I felt the need to pause after I prayed a while and let you know-- HE LOVES YOU.  HE wants to use YOU.  As you pray... I believe you will experience things in Christ that you never dreamed possible.

I heard this song (Overcome) when I came to pray and wanted to share it with you this morning:

Seated above, enthroned in the Father’s love
Destined to die, poured out for all mankind
God’s only son perfect and spotless one

He never sinned but suffered as if He did

All authority, every victory is Yours
All authority, every victory is Yours

Savior, worthy of honor and glory
Worthy of all our praise, You overcame
Jesus, awesome in power forever
Awesome and great is Your name, You overcame

Power in hand

Speaking the Father’s plan

You’re sending us out

Light in this broken land

We will overcome
By the blood of the Lamb
And the word of our testimony
Everyone overcome
Written by: KOWALCZYK, EDWARD JOEL / TAYLOR, CHAD DAVID / DAHLHEIMER, PATRICK / GRACEY, CHAD ALAN

We will overcome.  Speak out HIS Word when you pray.  Pray the Scripture.  He is sending us out...to be Light in this broken land.  Look around you today...where is He sending you?

Perhaps it's just across the street--but that takes as much courage as it does to go across the water if you've never flown before.  Walking up to someone to give them a Gospel Tract at the gas station, the mall, in the parking lot outside the grocery store....takes as much courage as it does for the team as they go downtown to the square in Santa Cruz.  With the Church being persecuted all over the world...you never know what you will encounter.

As you pray for us on Saturday--(That's the travel day), please pray a special protection for all the bags of the team of 28.  Most of them will have hot pink duct tape or lime green duct tape...and a special tag letting us identify it quickly as it comes off the conveyor belt.... Pray for the safety of the bags.  I don't think I've ever asked that before...but we're taking more than we've ever taken.   God is Good.  All the time.

I leave you with a few faces.  I hope they've thought about us as much as we have them...



And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.  Matthew 24:14