This is pretty much my day-to-day experiences! Here's the most down-to-earth look at what's happening here.Oh yah, and when you read about "La Casa de Paz", it is my little "house"!
Sun. Dec. 31, 2000 - 6:30 P.M.
Wow! Today is the last day of 2000. How time has gone! I�m looking forward to seeing what God has for me this next year.
Thursday night I caught a bus to Dallas and arrived Fri. Morning. Dan picked me up and I spent Friday and Saturday with them. We had a reallyy good time together. I finally got to meet Amanda, Brittany, and Lorenzo for the first time! (That would be my sister-in-law and niece and nephew....)
(I didn�t write in my journal what happened and how I got back without money, so I�ll brief you in here...) Ok, Dan and Amanda dropped me off at the bus station and gave me some money for the trip back. Bless their giving hearts, LORD. But what I didn�t tell them was that I still lacked about $20 since it cost more from El Paso! So I went in the terminal wondering how God would provide $20! I thought maybe He would put the money in my pocket like I�ve heard people say has happened to them. Or maybe some angel would give me some money....or maybe there would be a discount....well, none of those things happened! I got to the ticked counter praying REALLY hard. I reached in my pocket and pulled out EVERYTHING I had in there. But it wasn�t enough. What to do? My mind was racing, thinking maybe I could work somewhere for a day and make the $20 in El Paso. But I don�t know a soul here! The ticket agent says, you don�t have any money in the bank? No. How about a credit card? Yes, yes sir! I�ve got one!! I had totally forgot about my credit card. Hallelujah, before I knew it I was on the bus, paid in full! Later on, a brother gave me a check with a little more than the amount needed for the bill, knowing nothing about it! Praise the LORD He supplied for my needs!
Thurs. Dec. 28 - 7:30 P.M.
I�m sitting in the McAllen bus depot waiting to leave for Dallas to see Dan. This is a trip of faith for me. I think the LORD is teaching me to trust Him more in the area of finances. I withdrew the last $40 from my bank account & bought this ticket to Dallas. I now have $31 in my pocket and some change. The return ticket costs $47 so I�m trusting the LORD to provide a way. LORD, please supply for my needs according to Your riches in glory. This was a step of faith for me because I�ve never bought a 1-way ticket with money to return! Some people may call it foolishness, but I really feel God wants me to go.
Last night I stayed up �til 3 A.M. talking with a young teenager. The LORD allowed me to speak into his life and challenge him in his music, TV watching, friends, and girlfriends. He just needed someone to talk to as well.
Mon. Dec. 26 - 7:30 P.M.
Father, You are awesome in all Your ways. Holy is Your Name. You are the Prince of Peace, the LORD of lords. You are my loving Father. I�m so grateful that I can serve You. Thank You for taking care of me now & thank You for taking care of my future. I love you LORD.
Today, we began our trip to the border! Presently we are in a motel in San Lou�s Potas�, Mexico. (I have a little room and be all to my own! Spoiled...) It�s been a really good trip so far. We planned on leaving at 6:00 A.M., but didn�t actually leave �til 9:30. It didn�t even bother me this time! The LORD is making me flexible!! (You might laugh at little details like this, but this is the real-life growing situation!)
Sun. Dec. 24 - 7:45 P.M.
I can�t believe it�s Christmas Eve. The year is about over. I can�t believe how it has gone by. I have a lot of good memories of this year.....
I�m starting to get a better understanding of what missionaries give up when they head out to other countries to serve Him. I never thought about the holidays and special times that they sacrifice away from family and friends to serve Jesus. This Christmas was really special, but in a different way. Sometimes you can�t help but think of all the special family times, etc. I now have a greater respect for missionaries!!! Yes, I did have a great Christmas, too. We had pi�atas after church and a big party. It was lots of fun!
Sat. Dec. 23 - 8:30 A.M.
PTL! God is so good! Last night we had the mens� cell group. I love it, �cause I�m learning a lot. The LORD is making my foundation strong. Every week we have to memorize at least one verse. Last week we were studying Baptism and so memorized Matt. 3:11.
"Yo, a la verdad, os bautizo en aqua para arrepentimiento, pero �l que viene tras de mi, cuyo calzado yo no digno de llevar, es m�s poderoso que yo, �l os bautizar� en Esp�ritu Santo y fuego."
It is a challenge to get the verses memorized in Spanish, but with the LORD�s help, I�m getting them!
I really feel that the LORD is training me here. I�m really excited to see more of His plan for me!
Yesterday, I spent most of the day "insulating" la Casa de Paz with cardboard. It was alot warmer last night! At nights now it gets into the 50�s or so & my screen door and gaps between the ceiling and walls weren�t helping matters. But we are good to go now!
Today looks like it�ll be "packed" with things to do as we are preparing to head up to the border. I�ve got to get the care ready, oil changed and such, and who knows what all I�ll get to do!
Oh, I love it!Wed. Dec. 20
Today, I went to Quiroga. On the way an older Mexican sat beside me on the bus. I got to witness to him the whole way there! At first he was real argumentive, etc. He didn�t believe everything in the Bible. He believed in God but no the Bible! What do you make of that? Anyhow, I wasn�t going to waste my time arguing, so I started to read my Spanish Bible. Then he asked me what there is after you believe. I explained 3 basic stages of being a Christian.
1)Receive Jesus in your heart.
2)Become a disciple of Jesus.
3)Serve the LORD.He was really interested and I saw a definite heart change. Now he wanted to learn more about the LORD! I invited him to come to church this Sunday and he was excited about it. I�m praying that God will get ahold of his life. It was neat to share how I came down here by faith without even meeting the missionaries here and also how the LORD is taking care of me now. Nothing is more fulfilling for me than testifying about my LORD and Saviour, JESUS CHRIST! �l es mi vida. He is my life!
My friend, Diego, gave me free lunch at his taco stand in Quiroga. Last time I was in Quiroga he said he�d give me free tacos any time because I�m a missionary! PTL! I ate delicious barbaqued ribs for lunch (along with tortillas of course!) free of charge! God is taking care of me!
Tues. Dec. 19
Wow! I haven�t said how the wedding went. Well, from a guys point of view, it was your average beautiful wedding with all the pretty do-dads and all. I hope my pictures turn out, though. The only real problem we had was our sound system kept squealing and carrying on. We need a new mixer really bad. But we don�t have the $380 for a new one. After the service we had games etc. �til late afternoon. It was a full day!
My friends, Jorge and Edid, (from the hardware store) have been coming every Sunday now. I see a change happening as God continues to work in their lives. It is so exciting to watch God litterally change them and make them more free every Sunday!
A week from today we (Chacho�s family and I) are leaving for the border. I�m hoping to catch a bus to Dallas & meet Dan and his family. Then Mom and Dad are going to meet me somewhere in TX and I�ll help them drive down to Zacapu. I�m looking forward to all this excitement!
God is so good! I�ve been here for 3 months and I�m expecting to be here another 3 months or so! I�m really excited to watch God unfold His perfect plan for my life! In the meantime, vamos a servir al Se�or! (lets serve the LORD)
9:30 P.M.
Today I built a little 8-foot wall in the church. It was a lot of fun. (Much thanks to my friend, Bryan Williams, for the experience and training in remodelling/construction!)
Mon. Dec. 18 - 2:00 P.M.
Here�s a little live update fom Zacapu....I just bought 2 pineapples down town for a dollar! (I love the fruit and all down here. It�s so cheap, too.) MMmmmm, those poor folks up in the States who have to eat that old, stale fruit...
God has been so faithful in supplying my every need. Today I�ve been here for 3 months! I can�t hardly believe it. Time sure flies. The LORD keeps supplying for my needs financially, too. Today, I�m going to give Chacho and his family the $200 a month that I told him I�d give him them for living with them. (I feel that the LORD wants me to give them $200 a month to help out since I�m living with them and all.) They live totally by faith and so it really blesses them, too. And Praise the LORD, I had the money in my account! (This is exciting because my bank account fluctuates between say $300 and some low figure. So I�m learning to live by faith! But God is supplying my every need! :-))
Sun. Dec. 17 - 7:30 A.M.
My, I can�t keep up on my journal! We�re so busy. The kids and I played soccer yesterday morning and we always have fun with that. I helped clean the house when I got back and then went to the church to help clean. We did a MAJOR cleaning because of the wedding today. At 2:00, Guiovani, Mois�s, and I went to witness the baptismal of Susannah. All 3 of us were on my bike! After the baptismal, I got a bite to eat and then went back to work in the church.
Guillermo came to finish the ladies bathroom so I finished setting the door. (since I then had hinges!) I worked cleaning, decorating, and working on my door until about 9:30 last night. Anyhow, this morning all is ready for the wedding! PTL!
Sat. Dec. 16 - 8:30 A.M.
Yesterday I took our 1970 van with some wood (10 4x4�s) to get them ripped into 2x4�s and 1x4�s. Driving that old beast in Zacapu is quite the thrill or should I say challenge! Then I framed the door for the ladies bathroom. We didn�t have any hinges so I away I went on the bike to the hardware store! I think for those employees at the hardware store, I�m the most exciting part of their day! They now know me, but the fun is when I try to explain what I want with my hands or whatever I have to to get the point across! This time they didn�t understand what I wanted so one of the customers told them what I wanted. (Muchas gracias, amigo!) It�s still alot of fun trying to communicate!
For lunch Abid fried up some fish. These fish are about the size of minnows. You eat the head, the eyes, the bones, and the guts. (Easier said, the whole thing!) Yum, yummy! Just close your eyes and eat. (�cause if you don�t close your eyes, you�ll see their eyes looking up at you!)
Wed. Dec. 13 - 9:30 A.M.
I�m riding in the back of a pickup with Mois�s on the way to Morelia! We are going to pick up some chairs for the church. It�s a beautiful sunny day & I�m watching the beautiful countryside go by. (It�s a challenge to write back here!) I�m becoming quite accostomed to the lifestyle. There�s Indian mothers with their little babies, weathered Mexican men on burros, little shacks they call houses, and children chasing stray dogs. Yep, this is the life! I love it here. I�m right in the mountains and it�s really beautiful.
10:00 P.M.
Well, I�m back home in La Casa de Paz. We had a successful trip to Morelia. We bought 40 white, plastic chairs for only about $4 each! PTL! We got home this afternoon just in time to get set up for the service tonight. Then after church I dropped Oscar and his wife off at home & called Mom and Dad on the way back. It was great to say "hi!" (which is about all you get to say on these calling cards!!) I�m excited about them coming down in January. :-)
So I�m sitting on my bed thinking about how I needed to wash clothes 2 days ago and so am wearing these clothes fro the 2nd or 3rd day. Tomorrow top priority is WASH CLOTHES!!! I just plain haven�t had time! Anyhow that�s the realities of life for me! (You want the real-life stuff, well, I�m still waiting for my clothes to dry as I�m typing this on Thursday!) But life is good!
Tues. Dec. 12 - 7:30 A.M.
Praise You, Jesus. Yesterday, I spent the morning in prayer and Bible study. Then I helped clean the house and did a few odds and ends until it was time to practice the Christmas drama. Mondays are generally pretty relaxed as we prepare spiritually and physically of the week.
Blessing to you all! God really is awesome! It doesn�t matter where you go in the world, He is right there beside you. I am excited about what He has for my future. You may ask, Josh, how long are you planning to stay down for? Good question! I don�t know, but I think at least several more months. The trip to Oaxaca was moved to the first part of Feb. now. I really feel that God wants me to go there and minister. There is so much work to do here. My goal is to get someone to replace me in the music ministry and kids ministry so it�ll all continue when I leave. I�m praying for leaders to train!
Mon. Dec. 11 - 7:05 A.M.
Se�or, dame un coraz�n humilde, un coraz�n de un siervo. And LORD, prepare me for the life work that You have for me. I love You, Jesus, my Prince of Peace!
Sun. Dec. 10 - 8:00 A.M.
PTL! Yesterday the kids & I really had a great time playing soccer. We played a bit of basketball, too. I�ve never played an actual game of basketball before, so they taught me the rules! It was great; I think I might really like basketball now that I have an idea how to play! Giovanni and Lorenzo came for the first time. They go to our church. We really hit it off!
We got back to the house at 12 and I studdied �til 1. Then we practiced Christmas carols at the church. I�m accompanying about 8 or 9 kids on the keyboard. I think Christmas will be alot of fun down here! It�s fun singing Christmas carols in Spanish!
Bless the LORD! This morning I�m bringing the kids over to the house for children�s church. (We don�t have any room in the church.) There�s about 12 kids from ages 4 to 10. I�m looking forward to it! It�s exciting because the LORD is giving me a greater heart for this age group. Previously my heart was more with nursery-age children. The LORD is expanding my vision little by little and giving me a heart to reach children of all ages for Him!
11:30 P.M.
Children�s church went really good! I�m really excited about teaching the kids. The hardest part is that I still stumble over my words. But Benjam�n, on of my kids was helping me out! The children do really good even when I don�t get my verbs conjugated right or can�t pronounce something. I want the class to be fun and exciting with a message that sinks deep into their hearts.
LORD, lead me and guide me in Your paths one step at a time!
Sat. Dec. 9 - 8:10
I had such an awesome time in prayer this morning. I�m learning the value of fervent prayer. The LORD gives me such strength and courage in prayer!
Yesterday I got a haircut at the same place as I did last time. The young barber needs the LORD deparately. I didn�t want to go there again because the atmosphere is so nasty spiritually. But I couldn�t find any other baber shops (peluquer�as). It was really the LORD�s plan. We started chatting and he said I need to learn more Spanish. He said you know God, right? You need to learn Spanish to teach me about Him! LORD, give me Spanish! I was pretty fire up! Keep praying that God will give me this language!!
Well, gotta go get ready for soccer this morning!
Fri. Dec. 8 - 7:00 A.M.
Wow! I just had an awesome time of prayer with the LORD. I came to the church to have devotions with the LORD and had an uplifting time in prayer. I want to be a warrior in prayer. Te doy gracias, SE�OR, por este d�a. Ay�dame para servirte con todo mi coraz�n. Yo te amo a t�, Jes�s.
10:15 A.M.
Last night I found out that my friend, Jes�s, is getting married!! And in 2 weeks, too! We are going to be very busy for this holiday season. :-)
So what�s the weather like down here? At nights it gets pretty chilly; 50�s or so. But in the day it�s t-shirt weather. It almost always sunny and blue sky because we are in the dry season. It likely won�t rain until May!! I can�t believe how stuff stays alive, but it does. Well I�m really doing good down here. The LORD was really getting me fired up again this week. Serving the LORD is so exciting!!
Thurs. Dec. 7 - A.M.
Yesterday, Jes�s and I worked in the church until time for church. Oscar came before church for me to teach him more guitar. I love helping people learn instruments when they have a strong desire to!
Today looks like we�ll be cutting grass. (The "we" being Mois�s and I. He�s going to be living in La Casa de Paz with me for some time because of his family situation. He�s serenading me with the guitar presently!) So now we have Mois�s and myself as well as Jes�s from up by the border living here! My friend Jes�s is staying in the little room next to mine until he goes home after Christmas.
I�m praying that God will raise up leaders for the children�s ministry here. We have a major need for workers in kids ministry. I�m just starting teaching them Sunday mornings. I�m praying for someone whe really has a heart for it to work with me until they can take over.
Well, gotta run! There�s so much to do! :)
10:00
A full day! Mois�s and I cut a whole mess of grass. It was a strip about 3 feet wide and a little over 50 yards long along our outside wall. I�m getting the hang of using a machete! Next I filled about 7 burlap sacks with sand that was in our backyard. I was fired up to get alot done wo then I smashed a brick ring to pieces that used to be the top of a cistern. We�ve been wanting to get it out of our backyard for awhile.
After lunch (we eat lunch around 2:30 or 3 normally)Mo� and I went to his house to see if there was a party tonight for Abraham. There wasn�t so we decided to surprise him! He�s never had a party for his birthday; his mom died and his dad is somewhere in the states. So helped buy a cake and painted Mois�s up as a clown. Then away we went! It was a great surprise. I think Abraham loved it!
Tues. Dec. 5 - 1:00 P.M.
God is so good! Blessings to you all! I gotta run!
Sun. Dec. 3 - 5:00 P.M.
Man, this has been quite the weekend. Jes�s is living with us now since Wed. until Christmas or so. He�s single, 34, and sleeps in the little room next to me. I was awakened with a start when he came in my room, turned on the light, and said, "Excuse me, Josu�, pero la iglesia ha robado!" (The church has been robbed!) It�s 5:45 A.M. I jumped into some pants and ran to tell Chacho. Then Jes�s and I ran over to the church. Right inside the door lay the keyboard and mixer, ready to be carried off! The guitar and telephone were gone. Jes�s found a machete on the ground outside that they had used to try to open the door. They couldn�t and so came in through the roof. We crawled upp on the roof to see if they�d stolen any of our stuff we store up there. You wouldn�t believe it, but there lay the guitar! So the only thing he got away with was the phone and a blanket! Jes�s had gone to the church to use the bathroom and must have scared the guy off! You talk about excitement! It�s awesome how the LORD protected our stuff. We could have been cleaned out, but glory to the Lamb, we still have instruments to praise and worship Him!
Then Jorge and his wife came to church this morning! (He�s the Catholic fellow I talked with in his hardware store one day.) I know the LORD touched their hearts in a special way. They both had tears in their eyes. I want to see them set of fire for Jesus!
On top of it all, I gave my first kids sermon in church in Spanish! We learned how God takes care of us like He did Elijah. PTL! He is giving me Spanish!
Presently, I�m waiting for Oscar to come because he wants to learn guitar. I guess I�m teaching guitar lessons now! :)
Sat. Dec. 2 - 1:00 P.M.
I had a great morning! Only about 7 boys showed up to play soccer this morning, but we had a lot of fun anyway! I got to the Unidad before the kids and started to talk with 2 guys. The LORD gave me an opportunity to share my faith with them. I cut it to the basics and shared how Jesus said, the only way to Heaven is to believe in Him. The one guy was Catholic and I said I believe there are people in the Catholic church who believe in Jesus, etc. and are living for Him. But at the same time, there�s others who attend and nothing more than that. Those aren�t going to make it. Praise the LORD for the opportunity!
10:50 P.M.
Tonight I preached in Spanish for the 1st time!!! I went with my friends from the Baptist church to another church. There were about 20 some people. (all youth except the leaders!) As we were going over, Hugo asked if I�d preach. I said sure, because the Bible says to be ready in season and out of season! It was awesome because the LORD spoke through me. I shared how as youth we need to be solid, mature, & consistent, not going up and down. We need passion in our hearts for Jesus and the consistent walk of a solid Christian. Praise You, Jesus, for this opportunity! To Him belongs all the glory. Jesus is my strength and shield.
Fri. Dec. 1 - 5:40 P.M.
Praise the LORD! I had such a good day. I feel so fulfilled and happy �cause I know this is where the LORD wants me right now :)
(I�m writing this as I wait for the shower. A prayer meeting is starting at the church in 20 minutes.)
Today, I went downtown & updated my webpage and bought a few things. I have such a blast going downtown! I ran into 2 of my friends. from the Baptist church. It�s so fun to run into people you know downtown and actually carry on a conversation in Spanish! Hey! The bathroom is open; gotta run!!!...
10:00 P.M.
Wow! We just had an awesome service. We sang Shout to the LORD and the presence of the LORD filled the place. I had such a beautiful time worshiping the LORD and just being in His presence. I find everything I need in His presence, whether it is healing, encouragment, or love. My Father supplies my EVERY need!
Right now, I�m lying in a comfy hammock in La Casa de Paz! I�m listening to the dogs barking and wondering how my family and friends are doing. It�s a little cool in a t-shirt, but I�m still warm from exercising. (I�ve got to do something to stay in shape after all these tacos and beans!) well, time for be. The love of God be with you all.
Fri. Dec. 1 - 11:15 A.M.
I�m typing this live!! Here�s the latest, live from Zacapu.... OK, OK, I�ll stop my reporter�s voice.
I actually got all the tile done last night. I was pretty excited, because I�ve never laid tile by myself before. I love trying new things. I�m at the internet place now, but when I get back, I�ve got lots to do! ...frame the bathroom door, a little painting, put glass in a window,...put a handle on the other bathroom door, make closet doors...yep, I�ll be busy for a little bit. Chacho says I can go home when everything is done! It�s a joke with us because there�s always more to do. Theoretically, I have to train someone to take over keyboard, too! Well, I should go. Blessings to you all! (p.s. Last week someone put some money in my account and I don�t know who. Thanks SOOOO much! May God bless you!)
Thurs. Nov. 30 - 7:30 A.M.
Guess what? The tile is all laid in the ladies bathroom. (You�d think it�s a huge bathroom by the sound of it! But can�t be much more than 8 x 10 feet!) Now there�s just a few tile left to be laid in the hall. (I don�t know if I�ll tackle that myself, or let Jes�s do it!)
We had a really good service last night. The presence of the LORD is so refreshing. I want to live in His presence!
Wed. Nov. 29 - 11:00 A.M.
Yesterday, I helped lay more tile in the church bathroom. Today, I�m going to try my hand at laying the last little row. (Should be interesting, right??)
Abid has typhoid and so is sick on and off. But with medication she�ll get better!
We don�t have anything for the kids on Sundays, so I�m going to start giving kids sermons so at least they can have something for them. (We don�t have children�s church at this point, because we need people to teach.) I�m really excited about this! I love telling stories to kids.
I can�t believe Christmas is on it�s way. It doesn�t feel a whole lot like Christmas, though, for this MN boy! I think you need at least 2 feet of snow and -10 F. for a REAL Christmas!!! This will be an experience. Christmas with tacquitos!
Mon. Nov. 27
Praise the LORD. Thanks for this day, Father! You are my everything. You have put joy in my heart!
Today, I did odd jobs. We take Mondays easy after the weekends. I changed a flat time and helped Jes�s (a brother) lay more tile in the ladies bathroom in the church. Tomorrow, I�ll hit the projects harder!
Sun. Nov. 26 - 7:15 A.M.
All right, I�m awake. The excitement began Fri. morning. I was running all morning, preparing for the trip. Chacho put me in charge of making sure all the sound equipment made it there and back safely. So I had speakers, drums, the keyboard, guitar, etc to pack. (all in the back of a pickup) First of all, I�d consider this pickup truck to be a real Mexican truck. The clutch and brakes didn�t work real good (after shifting you had to pull the clutch back w/your foot, too), not to mention the slop in the steering.... (Don�t worry I�m not slamming their cars down here. I love Mexico! I�m just stating the facts!) So let�s just say that it had much to be desired. Best of all, I got to drive it all the way to Pueblo Viejo! It was about a 3 hour drive one-way and I had Mois�s in the back which meant I had to be extra careful. It was my first experience driving in Mexico, so in order to break me in good, we even went through Morelia, the capital city of the state! What an experience! I think I need a truck! (No, not seriously. :))
OK, so we finally made it to Pueblo Viejo. We were supposed to be leading worship at 6 and we got there 20 minutes late and still had to set up! (Be flexible and relaxed....) I carried the keyboard inside and it was almost pitch black because they were still trying to get lights going for the service. It was so beautiful though, because the 60 or so people already there were interceeding in tongues so loudly that I had to shout to hear myself! Let�s have church! The presence of the LORD came that night at we had an awesome service. Then after some fellowship over pozole (its like soup), I finally found a bed just before midnight.
I awoke Saturday morning to the prayers of others interceeding for the service. They really believe in prayer here! It is so beautiful.
The morning service started about 9:30 and went straight until at least 2:30! We threw out our agenda when the LORD took over. There�s so many details I could tell, like the ministry time with people slain in the Spirit and everything, or the way God moved in worship, or all the changes in plans that help make me more flexible! I didn�t end up teaching the youth. We ran out of time. So to put it in a nutshell, the LORD had His way on this trip and that�s really all that matters, isn�t it? Gloria Aleluya!
p.s. Oh yah, they really love to watch me eat chillies. I love chillies, and for some reason they think Gringos don�t eat hot food!
Sat. Nov. 25 - P.M.
Well, we made it back from Pueblo Viejo! What an exciting 2 days we had! But tonight I�m too tired to write. I�m plumb exhausted! I�ll let you know what happened tomorrow when I�m awake enought to write... :)
- signing off -
Josu�Thurs. Nov. 23 - 10:00 A.M.
PTL! Last night we had a real beautiful worship service. We sang a new song, "Shout the the LORD" in Spanish. It was so beautiful.
Live news update from Zacapu!
This morning at 2:00 A.M. the market caught fire here in Zacapu! "El Mercado" is a big building where lots of people have little stands to sell everything from vegges and meats to boots, clothes, dishes, and about everything. About 30% of it went up in flames! They have only one old firetruck in Zacapu. And it only carries water! They have to use buckets and pumps! Trucks from 1/2 hour away came and anothers from an hour away, but �til they got here....my oh my. Live is a little different here i Mexico!
On to more uplifting things! We are preparing for the big celebration that�s in Pueblo Viejo tomorrow and Sat. I believe I�ll get a chance to speak to the youth and I�m really excited about the opportunity! PTL! We will see what God will do. :-)�
I�m excited because God is working in my heart! He�s building faith and trust. We serve such a loving, all-powerful God! And you know what? He is in control of EVERY situation in YOUR life! He cares about YOU! Isn�t that something? Hallelujah!
Oh, yah, so what am I going to eat for Thanksgiving? Well I heard Mexican food is really good...I think I try it! How does tacos and beans sound for Thanksgiving? Actually, I really love the food here. I�ve grown attached to chilli and beans. (I�ve actually learned how to make beans that passed the inspections of the Mexican cooks!) I don�t think Mexican food will ever get old to me. (I guess that�s a good thing as there�s no other options!!) Well Praise the LORD, He is so good!
Tues. Nov. 21 - 9:45 P.M.
What an awesome we God serve! I studied yesterday morning for about 4 hrs. and had a neat time with the LORD. He is burning in my heart a passion for more of Him! It is time the youth of today live sold-out for Jesus!
Yesterday I had a great time playing volleyball. It was the first time I�ve ever played in a tournament with "un arbitrol" (not sure what they call them in English.) and all the official rules. We all had a great time playing together as brothers in the LORD! (I�m typing this out with my friend Mois�s by my side! PTL God really is GOOD!!!)
Mon. Nov. 20 - 1:00 P.M.
Yesterday, the service was beautiful. We had a really good time with the LORD in church. After church, I went with Mois�s to his house for lunch. Then we went to the "Unidad Deportivo" to play volleyball. About 12 from our church came out to practice because today at 4:00 there�s a big tournament. Several churches are getting together to play volleyball and get to know one another. I think it�ll be lot of fun! Last night we had a blast practicing. I really had a great day, yesterday. the joy of the LORD filled me and I am just so glad to be alive serving Him.
Sat. Nov. 18 - 9:30 P.M.
Today was packed full of activity. I don�t like to be running like crazy on Saturdays because I want to prepare myself for church Sunday. But what do you do when there�s things you need to do?
This morning we played soccer from 9 to 12 and had lots of fun. The LORD is teaching me leadership as I try to keep a dozen boys on track & working together. It can be challenging, but I really love it! I feel that we are establishing relationships which was one of my motives for starting the games.
We got home at 12 and Mois�s and I went and dropped Alberto and Guillermo off at their home. By the time we got back it was 1:00, just in time for worship practice! (from 1 to 2:30!) After practice, we ate some beans and tortillas for lunch, I cleaned up the kitchen (my latest responsibility!!) and then off Mois�s and I went to a birthday party! I brought all my clown stuff so I was a clown for the pary. There were about 40 kids plus moms and a few dads. I was twisting balloons like they were going out of style!! What a blast! :-) I love doing things like that with kids! (And I�m not joshing you, either.) At first the children were shy, but by the end I was mobbed for balloon hats, dogs, and birds!
Presently I�m lying on my bed (the bottom bunk) in La Casa de Paz and Mois�s is watching my write this from the top bunk! I�m pretty much exhausted. I�m listening to Spanish Bible tapes as well as a few dots barking and cars driving by. Well, that is the latest from Zacapu. Blessings to you all!!
Fri. Nov. 17 - 11:00 A.M.
Wednesday night we had a very special time with the LORD. There have been few times that I�ve played keyboard under the presence of the LORD like I did Wed. night. It was really awesome! The anointing of the LORD just came down in our worship. Praise His Name!
Yesterday, I worked on projects all day. I finally called it a day at 8:00 last night! I started building a little closet for cleaning supplies in the church. I�ve never used wood before like we do here...let me explain...Boards that I would normally throw away in the States, I use for all kinds of things. (Por ejemplo, shelves, doors, frames, counters, etc. I build out of litterally scraps!) I�m learning to use EVERYTHING I have to make something work! It can be challenging, but it sure is fun!
Last night I needed some nails for the closet so I jogged to a nearby shop. The owner and I ended up talking for nearly 1/2 hr.! He was wondering how and why I came down here so I shared how I�m a missionary here, etc. It turned out he is Catholic but was very curious about Christianity! He asked me what I believe about dancing, etc. and if Christianity allows it....For some of his questions, I had a hard enough time trying to think what to say in English, let alone explain in Spanish! But as I prayed it was neat because the LORD gave me not only the wisdom of what to say, but also the words to explain in Spanish! Praise You, LORD, for the work You are doing! The man wants to visit our church here with his wife!
One week from today, we are going to a BIG fiesta in Pueblo Viejo. Let me explain. A bunch of churches are getting together that are under our care, etc. and we are going to have teaching, preaching, praise, worship, testimonies, etc. Yepperdoo it will be exciting! Pray for me as I will be preaching to the youth and there will be lots of youth there! I�m really looking forward to it!
Wed. Nov. 15 - 12:30 P.M.
Guess what??? I`VE FOUND A WAY TO GET MONEY DOWN HERE! I�m pretty exciting because I was about out of money. I was really having to trust the LORD for my finances. He came through just in time! I have an ATM card that I can use to access my bank account in TN. So anyone who wants to help support me can do so very easily. All they have to do is send the money to Mom and Dad in TN (121 Riddle Rd, Winchester, TN 37398) and they will put it directly in my bank account! (Don�t worry, I�m not hinting!!! I�m just excited about this.)
Tues. Nov. 14
What do know? No one made it for the music class last night except Abid. (I didn�t want to teach voice with just her and I so we called it off for the night.)
I had a really good day today. There were lots of projects to do. I put another coat of paint on the counter, helped hang some shelves in the kitchen, painted a little in the church and cut the grass by hand again! Busy, busy.
You gotta here this...I`m learning to learn how to work "Mexican style". (My def. of this is: Use what you got, not what you want!) While I was cutting grass, I accidentally sliced the black plastic water line that supplies water to the house. I shut the water off and tried to think how a Mexican would economically fix it! Here�s what I did...First I wrapped the line with teflon and electrical tape. Then I found an old plunger. I cut the rubber of it. I wrapped the plunger rubber around the water line & cinched it tight with a hose clamp I�d brought. I didn�t even leak! Imagine that. (There�s just no Wal-Mart to run to for supplies here! That was my best "Mexican" fix job, toilet bowl plunger and all...)
Mon. Nov. 13 - 4:50 P.M.
I�m in a bus just leaving Morelia (the capital of Michoacan, the state I live in.) I�m hoping to get home just in time for my voice class at 7:00. What a day it has been!
This morning, Chacho & I took off for Morelia in his car right after prayer. We brought the keyboard and mixer to get them fixed. But the main reason we came was to meet with several pastors. There�s going to be a big fiesta with several churches getting together in 2 weeks. So while Chacho talked with them about the details of that, I went exploring in Morelia!
I went through the market and almost lost my breakfast. First you have to realize that they don�t use �fridges here, OK? I saw whole cow heads hanging up for sale. They are all skinned except the nose with eyes starring at you! Plus there�s livers, tongues, fish, shrimp, octopus, chicken...you name it! What a smell. :) I wish you could experience it!
After that I found a little Internet shop. I went in to catch up on e-mail. After about an hour, someone started playing some filty rap music (in English). This world needs Jesus desparately! I�m not going to fill my mind with garbage, so I headed back to the plaza.
The LORD had the timing planned, though. Because I met a Canadian couple speaking English with a lady from Morelia. I chatted with them for a bit and shared how I am a missionary down here. The mexican lady was interested in what I believe. I proceeded to share my faith in Jesus and how I have joy and life in Him. It was the LORD! The Canadians didn�t seem interested, but it was seed planted because they heard it all! PTL! All glory to His Name!
Well, I need to write some notes for tonight�s meeting! Adi�s.
Sat. Nov. 11 - 11:00 A.M.
Last night we had our first men�s cell group. Afterwards I realized I needed to let my friends know that we can�t play futbol today. Because today we�re going to P�tzcuaro and Juanitzio for a "fiesta". (A church is having their anniversary there.)
So I biked to Alberto and Guillermo�s house at 8:00 P.M. Guillermo was sick so I prayed for him partly in Spanish, a little in English, and the rest in tongues. Praise the LORD! It was really neat. Then I had to tell Mois�s, Benjam�n, and Abraham. They live on the other side of town in a kind of dangerous part. Chacho said I could bike there only if I�d go fast and not stop for anyone. Away I went! (about 9:00 now.) The LORD has taken away all fear of such things for me. He is my shelter, I shall not be afraid! I make it there & back safely with only one dog that wanted to chew me up! I was bigger than him and on a bike...It was good to bring some life & joy to their house. These 3 kids live in a rough situation. But the life and joy of the LORD cuts through it all. I got to bed around 11, fully exhausted from all the biking! :)
Fri. Nov. 10
PTL! I had a wonderful day yesterday! I spent 5 hrs. on the Internet updating my webpage & writing friends. A great way to spend your birthday! I�m praying for a laptop, because I can�t afford to rent a computer in town too much. And there are so many uses for a laptop down here. (Bulletins, announcements, newsletters, typing overheads, etc.)
Thurs. Nov. 9 2000!!!
Happy Birthday, Josu�! This morning Chacho�s family sang "Happy Birthday" to me in Spanish! Then the sang the traditional Spanish happy birthday song that they sing down here. It was pretty neat. :-) Hey, I even got to hear it in English when my sister, Stacy, called!!! It�s such a blessing to hear from my friends and family!
Prayer this morning was really good! I could feel the anointing like last night. One lady even got slain in the Spirit! He is worthy to be praised! LORD, help me to live each day to the fullest! I think 20 must be the best age!
Wed. Nov. 8 - 2:45 P.M.
Yesterday, I built another counter in the kitchen. Then I started building shelves underneath, which I finished today! I never built counters and shelves before, but it sure is a lot of fun! I like hands-on work!
Thank You, LORD. You are so good to me. Today is the last day I�ll be 19. It�s hard to believe!
10:20 P.M.
Church tonight was really special. I felt the presence of God during worship like I haven�t for awhile. It was so sweet. I was playing keyboard during worship and I looked out over our little mexican church service. The LORD brought me back to college in Bemidji, MN. I clearly remember looking out over Lake Bemidji and praying, "LORD, How long will it be �til you send me to the nations? Here I am, send me! LORD, I want to go." Looking at this little group of Mexicans, I realized that He has sent me! Hey, I am actually we down here in MX! God, You have sent me & here I am, serving You! PTL! The LORD is faithful. He WILL bring about His plan in His time! �Heme aqu�, Se�or. Env�ame a m�. (Here I am, Lord. Send me.)
Tonight is my last night for being a teenager. Tomorrow I will be 20. It�s hard to believe. Josh Juetten will be 20! It seems only yesterday I was a little boy. (I dunno, maybe I still am!!) I look forward to 20, though, because I believe God has good things in store for me this year! LORD, thanks for this year you gave me to serve You. Help me to serve You more, every day of my life. I love You, Jesus. Yo te amo a Jes�s.
Tues. Nov. 7 - 7:30 A.M.
Wow! I need to work on weather-proofing La Casa de Paz! I can see my breath this morning. Pu�s Goria al Se�or, yo necesito ir....
Mon. Nov. 6
Today was a full day! We tore the kitchen apart here at Chacho and Lupita�s. There were basically no counters and the sink was tiny when we started. Chacho and I built about 9 feet of counter and put in a used stainless steel sink they had! What a difference! Then they painted the kitchen and dining room white. It looks like a new house, yet cost basically nothing! I build the frame for the counter out of rough-cut 2x4�s and 4x4�s. For the counters, I used the plywood that they had used for forms when they built the church. 4x4 legs support the counters. It�s a little crude, but with a touch of paint, it�ll look great. We are tickled pink, as it is 100% better than it was!
Tonight, I taught the first music class! God has been putting in my heart a desire to train and organize worship teams. I�m starting with the church here. Abid, Mois�s, Nancy, and Antonio want to learn and serve on the worship team. I�m starting at square one with them. It�s exciting! I�m starting with voice lessons, then we�ll progress to learning keyboard, guitar, etc. My dream is to put a worship team together that will operate totally without my involvement. So when I leave, it�ll keep going. I�m excited to see how God will put this all together! LORD, give me the strength, wisdom, and everything necessary to put a worship team together for You.
Sun. Nov. 5
I met a boy named Gustavo tonight and had him over in La Casa de Paz. He�s 12. He speaks English really well, so I witnessed to him in English. I said, "God needs people like you, Gustavo, who will be sold out for Him. Kids who will say, "No!" to what�s wrong and who will stand for what�s right, no matter what!" Gustavo was agreeing, "Yah!" Pray that God will work on his heart. I saw in him a desire to do what�s right and the courage to stand up. His dad is usually drunk and he comes from a rough backround. (Actually, I witnessed to his dad one Sun. morning on the street. I may have put in in the journal here about a month ago.)
Sat. Nov. 4
I was in Zamora today (about and hour away). I met a group of missionaries from Huntsville, AL! (One of the ladies even had a house in Winchester, TN) It�s a small world. As I tried to speak in English to them, the craziest thing kept happening! I would start speaking in Spanish. (Qu� bueno, exactamente, s�, Dios le bendiga, etc.) I would think of saying something in Spanish and then have to say it in English! I literally kept catching myself. I couldn�t believe it. What ever will I do when I return to the States? Pues, Goria a Dios. The LORD is doing it!
I also got to witness to a man who was selling bread there. He was Catholic. It was really neat. The LORD is giving me more boldness to witness! It is becoming a part of me.
Fri. Nov. 3 - 11:40 P.M.
I got the bunks finished. I�m testing my new bed out tonight! We had a prayer vigil at church tonight from 7 to 9:30 or so. I had a real sweet time with the LORD as He ministered to my heart. LORD, give me a soft, gentle, loving heart.
Thurs. Nov. 2
PTL! Another beautiful day here in Zacapu...sunny and clear! (We got home from Lombard�a last night just in time for church!) It was chilly last night, but it�s t-shirt weather now. We had a really good trip to Lombard�a. The LORD is really stirring in my heart a desire to reach the youth and help establish worship teams in these Mexican churches. I�ll wait on Him and see what happens!
Last night something exciting happened! As I was leaving to go to church, I said, "Yo tengo la guitarra." (I have the guitar.) Abid turned around and said, "What?" I thought I must have said it wrong. She said, "No, I thought you were someone else. It sounded different." The LORD is giving me the accent! She said it sounded just like a Mexican. The LORD told me a little while ago to pray every day that He would give me Spanish. Then to hear someone tell me that they thought a Mexican just spoke when it was me, really got me excited! Praise the LORD!
This morning I fixed a burner on the stove so we can use all four burners (much needed!). Then I washed some clothes. I want to start building bunkbeds so Mois�s can sleep more comfortably here. Bless the LORD! I�m really excited about what the future holds, because I know Him Who holds the future!
9:30 P.M.
I�m blessed! Can you imagine, we have a Creator so big and awesome. Yet, He cares about every detail of our lives!
I spent the afternoon today making my bunkbed. I hope to finish it tomorrow! I�m making it out of 4x4�s �cause that�s all we have. Talk about a bed! It should last forever! I was building it at the church where Antonio and Eberardo were working. We had lots of fun chatting as well. I fellow came by as I was working outside and we started talking. We talked about his kids in Calif. etc. And then I shared how I love Jesus and how with Him I have joy and peace. I was really excited. I told Him without God I don�t have anything, but with Him I have everything. Jesus is all I need. He is my everything. Glory to Your Name, LORD Jesus. Thank You for the chance to spread some seeds of life. :-)
Tonight as I was exercising, I found myself counting in Spanish! I was doing "crunches" and was up to 15 counting in Spanish before I realized I wasn�t speaking English. I was thinking about something else and so just started counting in Spanish subconsciously. I think I�m starting to think in Spanish! No joke! �Es la verdad! (It�s the truth!) Keep praying that God will give me Spanish and the accent! What a mighty God we serve! Well, gotta go... Blessing to all!
Wed. Nov. 1
I can hardly believe it�s the first of November! God is putting a vision in my heart to teach and put together worship teams. There is a great need for worship teams down here. They just need someone to teach them. I could go to a church, teach keyboard, guitar, etc. and help get a worship team together. Then I could go to the next church and make a circuit. I was talking with the pastor here, Valentin, yesterday. He expressed a great need for someone to teach them how to play keyboard, bass, etc. They have the instruments, but no one knows how to play them. LORD, direct me in this if You want me to teach and help organize worship teams.
Also the LORD is giving me a heart to reach the youth. I had a heart for children before, but not so much for the teens. I�m getting excited about reaching the youth!
Yesterday we went to a park to spend some time with the pastor here and his family and a few others from the church. It was lots of fun! There were several pools for swimming and we played a little volleyball and basketball. We had a special time of worship and prayer when we went back to their house. Chacho and Valentin had some words from the LORD for me that were really encouraging. We ended the day with some FRESH pineapple, watermelon and chivo soup. Chivo is some kind of animal like a goat. But, man, it sure is good! :-)
Tues. Oct. 31 - 10:30 A.M.
I�m in Lombard�a now.(a town about 3 hours away and 3 hrs. from the coast)Last night I fell asleep watching a lizard on the ceiling above me. I really wonder how they can run across a flat ceiling without falling on me!
We had a yummy breakfast outside this morning. Tortillas with a kind of red, spicy broth with chivo meat (goat). It was delicious! Then some pan (bread) to top it off! I�m amazed at how they can make food taste so good in the conditions they live in here. It�s a little like Oaxaca style.
Mon. Oct. 30 - 11:00 A.M.
I�m learning to be flexible! Man, you never know what a day will bring! Less than 2 hrs. ago Chacho told me that we�re going on a trip today. We�re leaving at 3:00 P.M.! We are going to visit a church that our church is overseeing. I have no idea what to expect or what will happen! (Isn�t life just plain exciting?)
After Chacho told me we�re leaving, I quickly washed a load of clothes. (don�t let the word "quickly" fool you. We don�t have an automatic washer.) Thank You, LORD for a beautiful, sunny day to dry my clothes! The LORD is teaching me how to be flexible and go with the flow. (Go with the flow in a good way, that is!!)
Well, guys it�s 2:02 as I write this and I�m in the Cyber Caf� in Zacapu with my clothes still on the line and nothing packed yet! Time to run like greased lightening (and somehow stay relaxed)!!! Dios le bendiga mucho. El Se�or es fiel! Adios, amigos......check back on Thurs. or Fri. and I�ll letcha know what happened!
Sun. Oct. 29 - 8:45 P.M.
I had a really good day today. The church service was beautiful this morning. I felt Your freedom, Your presence, LORD. I played a song for special music this morning. (for the 1st time here!) I played guitar and sang "Take Me In to the Holy of Holies" in Spanish and English. I was nervous beforehand because I�ve never played guitar in front of people before. Before I started I prayed, "LORD, this is for Your glory". Then I put my focus on Him as I played an just worshipped. The LORD came through for me as He so faithfully does when we call on Him. It was awesome!
Thurs. Oct. 26 - 10:15 A.M.
�Cristo vive! Yesterday, I got to do a little wiring. I put up a couple of lights outside Chacho and Lupita�s house to light up the yard. Get this: when you hit the switch, inside, they actually work! :) I�m learning how to work "mexican style". You say, "Josu�, what�s Mexican style?" Quite simple, amigo...Use what you got, not what you want! Next I want to wire my little shack, La Casa de Paz. Candles are nice and cozy, but it�s nice to have the option of lights. After a few other projects (cutting the grass by hand again, etc.) it was time for church! Vamos a cantar, hermanos, Celebrad, a Cristo, Celebrad! (Let�s sing Celebrate, Jesus, Celebrate, brothers!)
Wow! I can�t believe I�ll be 20 in 2 weeks! Time is sure flying. I believe one secret to life is to enjoy each day to the fullest. I�m still learning how to do it, though! (By the way if you have it figured out, please send me an e-mail by clicking here!) I think life�s too short to be spent discouraged and down. I want to learn how to make the most out of every day! God sure is good! ....... ta-ta for now....Adi�s.
Wed. Oct. 25 - 9:30 A.M.
I had an exciting day yesterday. I took a bus to Quiroga. (about 45 minutes) I went to do some shopping, etc. The LORD brought 4 men across my path to witness to. It was really exciting to ask each one if they had asked Jesus into their hearts, etc. (in Spanish) I met one of them on the streets of Zacapu even before I left for Quiroga.
The whole trip was thrilling for me because I�ve always thought it would be awesome to serve the LORD in Mexico. I can actually take a bus, shop, buy lunch, talk to people and still make it home all by myself!! It was so exciting because I was by myself and making it in Mexico with no translator, etc. PTL! We serve an awesome God who daily loads us with benefits. Ps. 68:19
I talked with Diego, the man who sold tacos for lunch. I shared how I am a missionary down here and we talked for quite a while. When I left, he told me that whenever I�m in Quiroga, to stop by. He said I get free tacos because I�m a missionary! Serving the LORD is exciting! You never know what a day will hold...
Sun. Oct. 22 - 9:45 P.M.
Yesterday, I played futbol with about 15 boys again! I was coach of our team, "El Deportiva Alcance Betania". (Bethany Outreach Team) I�ve never been a real coach before! We played 2 games against another team! It was quite an experience. :-) After playing against the other team, we made our 2 teams of ourselves and played. It was alot more fun. We could yell and holler and just have a grand old time! It was really fun. Now I�m starting to learn their names and can encourage them, etc. I made a bunch of ham sandwiches which disappeared after about a minute and a half after I got them out!
Last night we went to the "Mexican McDonalds". (Real cheap Mexican food that tastes good!) We were all laughing so hard for most of the meal. Mainly it was because of something I tried to say in Spanish. Needless to say, what I said was totally different that I wanted to. We have so many jokes about me and my Spanish!! I�ll be trying to say something, and suddenly everyone will bust up laughing! Josu�, what did you want to say??? You should see it!
Well tomorrow will be a full day...to beddy-by I go.
...well, not yet...Thank You, LORD for Your perfect plan for my life. You are always there for me. Last night I had such a special time with You by myself in the church. Thank You for the work You continue to do in my heart. I set my affection on You. You have become invaluable to me. I�m convinced that I could live anywhere in the world, doing anything for You, and be happy as long as I would have You. You are my everything! Holy is the Name of the LORD!
Fri. Oct. 20 - A.M.
Yesterday, Chacho and I went back to Morelia. We got my papers renewed for 90 days. PTL! That means that I have permission to stay in Mexico until Jan. 17, 2001. Thank You, LORD! (after that, I can renew it for 2 months more before I have to return to the States. A tourist can be here no more than 6 months at a time.) We�ll see what the LORD has for me. Aren�t you glad we can trust Him with our futures??!!
Wed. Oct. 18
I�ve been here one month today! I can�t believe it�s been a month already. Time sure flies. At the same time, it seams like ages since I was living in TN! It�s another world here.
Today we had to go to Morelia to renew my papers for permission to stay in Mexico. It turned out they had moved locations and we were a half hour late anyway. They were closed. I was glad Chacho and Lupita were with me! We had a neat time together. I ate at Burger King today for the first time since I left the States. Everything is in Spanish! What a blast. A combo meal costs about $35.00 (pesos!) It looks funny on the board to see a burger for $20 or $30! (The exchange rate now is 9.38 pesos to the dollar.)
I�m praying about teaching the worship team how to sing and then teach them different instruments. Then eventually we would have an effective worship team. Father, please lead me in this. I want your perfect plan. I love you LORD.
Tues. Oct. 17 - 9:45 P.M.
LORD, I had such a good day. I went to get a haircut this evening. I had to put up with some wild music for about 1/2 an hour & I was thinking, "God is this worth it for a haircut?" But when the LORD opened an opportunity to witness to Juan while he cut my hair, I realized it was worth it! I shared about the joy and life I�ve found in Jesus half in English, half in Spanish! (He could understand some English.) It makes me want to learn Spanish all the more! I want to reach these people.
Then I got my shoes shined by an old man. I found my heart going out to him. God, how can I reach these people for You? I�m fired up to learn Spanish. By the time I finished shopping, it was dark. I had my first opportunity dodging cars on the the streets of Zacapu at night on my bike!! What an experience! I didn�t have the guts to try it before. I bless your Name, LORD. Thank you for this day to serve You.
:-)Mon. Oct. 16 - 11:15 A.M.
I�m at the computer caf� typing this right now. This morning the prayer meeting was something else. We started at 8:15 or so and didn�t get back �til 10:00! Abid and Lupita had visions and the LORD ministered to my heart and encouraged me that He was going to pour out a new anointing and fresh oil. It was refreshing! PTL He is so worthy of ALL our praise.
Sun. Oct. 15 - 10:35 P.M.
The last 2 days have been FULL of activity! Sat. morning I went to play �futbol� with the kids at the Unidad Deportiva. It turned out there were 15 boys there and none spoke English. (Chacho couldn�t come, either.) I asked my friend, Mois�s, to organize 2 teams, etc. He did a great job. I was so thankful that Mois�s was there! He doesn�t speak a word of English, but he understands me pretty good. Most of the boys were from 7 to 12 years old, with the exception of a few teenagers. We had a lot of fun. I still see this as a great way to build friendship and trust. 7 of them were a gang of boys I�d met on the street and invited to come. They need the LORD, but that�s what we�re here for right? To spread the Gospel? I�m hoping I can share a brief message or something before we play once I can speak Spanish better.
After playing futbol and hanging out for awhile, I took 10-year old Guillermo home on my bike. (I want to get some of those pegs for my bike so I can carry 2 kids besides myself!) Guillermo and his brother, Alberto, have such neat hearts. We are good buddies!
After helping clean the house and after worship practice, I went to the Baptist Church. It�s about 2 blocks away and they had there youth group at 5:30. I love meeting people here and getting to know more about them and the culture here. Before and after the service, we played volleyball!
When I came home around 8:00 a load of about 20 people were here from a church 3 hours away. Talk about excitement, or should I say chaos! The little house was packed and we were going here and there running errands, getting groceries, etc. I finally got to sleep about midnight.
This morning I was up helping make breakfast for all of them at 7:30. It was a neat group of Christians, and we had a great time together. Church started at 11 and went until 4:00. I don�t know how the little kids make it since we don�t have a nursery or children�s church. What a weekend! :)
The LORD is so good to me. His ways are so perfect. I�m really not sure what my future will be, but with the LORD as my guide, I know it will be good. I still don�t know how long I�ll be down here. I�m feeling like it�ll be a few more months anyway. This Fri. I�m going to be speaking to our little youth group. Well, I�m plumb tuckered out, so the other stuff that�s going on, you�ll have to catch up on on later! We serve and awesome God. I�m so privileged to be able to serve the LORD here. �Buenas noches! ~ Josu�
Fri. Oct. 13 - 10:30 P.M.
I�m writing this by candle-light in La Casa de Paz....
Today, I got supplies for the church bathroom (nails, hinges, ets.) Shopping sure is fun in Mexico! Trying to explain in Spanish what I need is a challenge! I worked on framing and setting a door in the bathroom and other odds and ends this afternoon. I was pretty tickled when I actually got the door finished and guess what? It actually worked! (Thanks to the experience working with Bryan Williams in construction.) Then, around 7:00 P.M. I biked into town and bought some paint. I met the owner there, Emilio. He�s a really nice fellow. Little by little I�m starting to learn Spanish. Boy, it takes time! Today was mainly spent working in the church. Now we�ll have a bathroom in working condition for Sunday!When I got back from the paint store, everyone was gone to lead cell groups. I had a special time with the LORD playing guitar. (I�m starting to play guitar!) The LORD is my source and strength. He is ALL I need! Father, just hold me in Your Arms of Love! ~ Signing off for the night.....Josu�
Wed. Oct. 11 - 10:00 P.M.
Yesterday, when I brought the blender home, Lupita was at a loss for words! She was almost in tears. She said, "I feel like a little girl with a new doll!" PTL for His provisions.
I worked in the church again this afternoon & then we had church tonight. Wow! It�s busy here with things to do. There are services every night this week, I think, plus cell groups! Hasta ma�ana, amigos! I need some sleep!
Tues. Oct. 10 - 10:00 A.M.
Praise You Jesus! I had such a good day yesterday. After dropping the film off, I sat in the plaza for a few minutes to wait for the copies. I started talking to an older man. We talked about his family, job, etc. Then I asked if he was a Christian & he said he was. I shared how I love Jesus with all my heart amd that Jesus is all that I need. It was exciting! Then in the afternoon, I worked in the church, scraping splattered cement off the concrete beams.
At 7:00 last night, Chacho and I went to a nearby Baptist Church because they needed a translator for an American speaker. I think it was the first sermon in English I�ve heard since I left TN! I had so much fun talking with the kids there, etc. Their youth group meets Saturday at 5:00. I want to go and meet more of their youth. (Besides, they play volleyball, & I love volleyball!) I think they play volleyball and then have their service. I met Beltazar there and we really hit it off. It was a great experience. Trying to speak Spanish when you really can�t is a blast. You just laugh alot and try your best!
This morning I�m going to buy Chacho and Lupita a blender. I�ve been thinking about it for awhile. This morning in prayer I felt that God wanted me to get one for them. I can buy a good one for $35 or $40 here. Chacho and Lupita give so much and have so little. I brought a mixer down (thanks to the help of a brother), but we need a blender. Lupita also needs a tupperware set. They don�t have much, yet they don�t complain. It is a testimony to me. Maybe I can get her a tupperware set some day, too.
Mon. Oct. 9 - 11:00 A.M.
I dropped some film off to make copies of some of the pictures of the trip for Chacho. It was so much fun! Trying to communicate in Spanish when the other person doesn�t know a word of English is so much fun for me! I think biking and exploring Zacapu is my favorite thing to do, especially if I get to go shopping for milk or something. This town is busy with bikes, people, cars, trucks, buses, even a few mules! It�s a blast!
Sun. Oct. 8 - 6:00 P.M.
This morning I went on a walk to spend some time with the LORD and ended up witnessing to a man. I think he was partially drunk, but he wants to bring his son over who speakes English to talk. His son is 13 and they both speak English. We�ll see what God will do there!
Church was really good today. There was a lot of ministry to fathers and mothers. And the LORD ministered in a very special way. We sang "Light the Fire" (the one with the echo) and I cried through most of it as the LORD worked on my heart. I have such a loving, caring Heavenly Father!
Yesterday, we had a full day of activity! We played futbol (soccer), jogged, and had fun at a local sports place. (It costs 20 or 30 cents to get in!) There were 5 boys, 2 girls, and Chacho and I that showed up. The Dad�s didn�t make it, but I believe God will use this time to open doors into the kids� lives. It really broke the ice for us. This morning at church, the boys and I were like best buddies. We�ll see what God does with it.
Afterwards, I dropped Alberto off at home. (Picture both of us on my bike for a mile or so!) Then Mois�s and I biked to his house (2 miles away or so) to grab his backpack so he could stay in La Casa de Paz with me. We got back just in time for worship practice. Afterwards, I cleaned my "house" and then Mois�s & I cleaned the bathroom in the house within an inch of it�s life! After all that and a bike ride to Don Antonio�s to get a 5-gal. jug a water, I�d have to say that I was wiped out!
Sat. Oct. 7 - 9:15 A.M.
Father, I love You. You are so awesome. You are my everything. I�m finding such a security and comfort in my Heavenly Father like I haven�t experienced before. When I need help, encouragement, or someone to cry on, He is there for me. Father, You have become so real to me. I could never live without You. Praise Your Name!
Last night we had a prayer vigil from about 7:30 - 9:45. I�ve been playing keyboard for the services, and so we worshiped the LORD with a few songs. Then we prayed and lifted up various petitions before the LORD. They pray with such intensity and fervor! It was really a special time with the LORD. By the time we dropped some of the people off at their homes with Chacho�s car, it was 11:20 again! The whole family raided the kitchen & then I figured I may as well stay up and watch a video. (The idea of good rest was lost anyhow.) I�m going through a series of 10 videos on teaching and ministering to children. I�m really eating it up! The information is so good. So I watched the 2nd tape �til I fell asleep. And presto, chango it is Sat morning. Futbol begins in 1/2 an hour!
Fri. Oct. 6 - 7:45 A.M.
Yesterday, I worked on my web page and took the glass out of the window a church. I cut the grass by hand scickle again. (I think I prefer those motorized things they use to cut grass...what do they call them?...oh, yah LAWNMOWERS!)Then we went to a cell group at 8 P.M. and didn�t get home �til 11:20! Sleep quick!
Thurs. Oct. 5 - 7:15 A.M.
LORD, I love You. I�m so thankful that You�re in control of my life! Today it looks like I�ll be off to the computer shop after prayer (8:00). Then we go to a cell group at 10:00. Next, I�ll fix a broken window in the church and by that time who knows what�ll be happening! We have another cell-group at 8:00 tonight. PTL! (I need to study Spanish somewhere in between!)
Tues. Oct. 3
Chacho asked me to share something with the youth Sat. night. I had 15 minutes to prepare! But the LORD spoke through me as I shared out of my heart. It was really awesome!
Sunday we preached at another church and prayed for people. I got diarrea (I can�t spell) real bad. But the LORD is my healer. I am getting back to normal. Monday we travelled back to Acapulco. In Acapulco last night we shopped in a street market. I started talking to one of the salespersons. Chacho was talking to the other and I shared how I was a Christian and read some Bible verses about the harvest being ripe, etc. to her. I explained how I like Mexico because God has put in my heart a desire to preach the Gospel to the people here. It was awesome because I�ve never been able to witness much in total Spanish without an interpreter. I�m always stuck with basic "hi, what�s your name, where do you live, etc." phrases. It was exciting to read Bible verses in Spanish, etc. She was a Christian, but I think it really encouraged her. And so concluded our trip to Oaxaca! I know I wrote alot of unimportant details, but I think there�s several of you who want to go on the mission field. If you�re like me, you want to know, so what�s it actually like? That�s why I�ve put so many little details in. The LORD did so many things in the hearts of the people.
Sat. Sept 30
My, I can�t find time to keep up on my journal. We go non-stop from morning to night.
After breakfast at Ram�n�s on Tues., we had a church service where a girl gave her heart to Jesus and 11 said they wanted to get baptized this Sunday! I loved being with the people. I wanted to badly to teach the children or tell a story in Spanish, but I couldn�t. They all wanted to go back to the States with me! Sorry.
We got back to Tacubaya that night and had one of the most awesome services I�ve been in. There�s such a fervency for God. Lot�s of people were healed. PTL! After the service, I talked with the youth for about an hour or so. I wanted to stay with them longer, but we had to leave the next day. Their hearts are so soft and real.
Yesterday, we were all over the place visiting and encouraging people. Then we had church outside last night until we got rained out. The 25 or so of us crammed in a house where we prayed for them all. Then off to a brother�s house to sleep. We rode in the back of a pickup bed that they use to haul animals and got soaked to the bone by the time we made it to the house where about 13 people lived! We talked �til about 2 A.M. then went to sleep.
Fri. Sept 29
After our adventures in the rivers, we ate at Ram�n�s. (Yes, we did see the waterfall. It was pretty!) This was real Mexican food....hot, fresh milk and all!
Thurs. Sept 28
Wow! Today is Thursday. This week has been awesome. This is a real mission trip! We arrived here in Tacubaya, Oaxaca Tues. afternoon. We visited some people and I played "futbol" (soccer) with a boy in the dirt street. Then we caught a ride on a truck to another village about 10 miles up in the mountains. It�s hot and humid here as we are only a few miles from the coast. Transportation was a pickup truck with a box on the back and a tarp over the top. We crammed about 20 people in there! At least 4 of us stood on the back bumber because it was packed inside. (including me, �cause I wanted some pictures and it was more exciting!)
That night, Tues., we had meetings there in Naranjo. The Holy Spirit fell and many asked to receive the Holy Spirit. We were speaking in tongues for probably an hour straight or more. Wow! What and experience. There were only about a dozen people, but I could feel the presence of God like I can�t put into words. We left the church around midnight and went over to a brother�s house to spend the night. (p.s. shower, clean clothes, toothbrush, comb, deodorant, forget it!) After some sweetbread and cafe, we went to "bed". I slept on the floor with some of the brothers since there was only 1 bed. I tried not to think about the huge cockroaches I�d seen running through the dishes on the "counter" or the other critters that might enjoy a cozy bed with me. (There were no doors except on the front of the house. The back was wide open.)�Gloria a Di�s! We got to sleep about 1:00 A.M.
5:00 came mighty early the next morning. We caught one of the few trucks that goes up there at 5:30 and it dropped us of at a village partway down the mountain. We walked in the dark down a path to another brother�s house. I was so tired, I couldn�t hardly think. I crawled into a hammock and tried to get some sleep while they talked. I don�t know how they can keep going like that!
After a bit, Ram�n wondered if we wanted to see a waterfall to take a bath and get some pictures. Sure, let�s go! I had no clue that Chacho, Marcos, Ram�n, and I would be walking barefoot for litterally several miles down cowpaths and through rivers to get there. I can�t remember how many times we crossed rivers. (Still in my only set of clothes.) I took my shirt off and put my wallet, camera, passport, SS card and birthcertificate in there. (I always carried ID with me.) I carried that little bundle over my head as if my life depended on it. I don�t know what would have happened if I�d have lost my passport, etc. I guess I�d be Mexican! One river was a little deeper than my waist and very strong. I had to fight to keep it from wiping me under. We were all laughing so hard! ---We have to go pray! I�ll continue ASAP!
Tues. Sept 26 - A.M.
Chacho & I travelled all day yesterday. We arrived here in Acapulco late afternoon. It is so beautiful here! I went swimming in the Pacific Ocean for the first time in my life last night! God, You are so good to me.
Sun. Sept 24 - 8:15 A.M.
Last night Mois�s stayed with me en la casa de paz. He�s 13 and doesn�t speak any English. We had lots of fun trying to talk. We had a good time playing guitar and mandolin together.
10:35 P.M.
Church was really good. (from 11 to 3) I love being down here. Tomorrow we go to Acapulco!
Sat. Sept 23 - 12:00 P.M.
It�s been an interesting morning already! I tried to take a bike into town to exchange some money, use a computer, and buy a chain to lock my bike. I was just reaching town when my bike chain broke. I walked the bike to a bike shop and asked if he had a chain. He didn�t have time to fix it, but gave me directions to another shop. (Please remember, whenever I talk to anyone down here, I have to use Spanish. This far south few people speak any English!) The guy here said he�d fix it by 2:30 this afternoon.
So now I�m at the bank. These banks are an experience in themselves. There�s about 12 people waiting their turn each with a paper in their hand. I finally figured out that you need to get a slip of paper out of this machine at the door for your number! Boy, what a gringo I am! Well, gotta go, it�s almost my number! :)Sat. Sept 23 - 8:30 A.M.
It�s a clear blue sky and sunny today. Last night I almost froze out in my hammock! It must have been in the 50�s. I think I�ll build a bed to hold more blankets!
Fri. Sept 22 - 7:15 A.M.
PTL! Another day to serve You, LORD! I�ve been reading about David and what incredible faith he had. LORD, I want faith like David, even if it takes the fire.
Fri. Sept 22 - 10:45 P.M.
Wow! What I day it has been. Tonight we had another cell group. The girls went to one and Cha Cho and I to another. The LORD really worked in hearts. After teaching for about 1 1/2 hours, we prayed for each one. There were eight people there. Whenever I would pray for someone, Cha Cho would interpret. I felt the presence of God. It was awesome. I�m starting to catch a lot more Spanish which is really exciting for me!
This afternoon I cut the crass with a hand sickle. Quite an experience, I must say! I�m grateful that we have a small front and back yard. Tomorrow I have to figure out how to wash clothes with a manual washer. Well, I�d better get some sleep. I�m writing this by flashlight in "La Casa de Paz" (my house). God, YOU are so good!Thur. Sept 21 - 10:45 P.M.
Cha Cho and I just returned from a cell group. It was really good. I�m understanding more all the time. Francisco walked 3 miles just to come to cell group. I am amazed at the hunger for Jesus that I see here. - Signing off....tango muy sue�o.
p.s. I started getting ichy bumps all over yesterday. I think they are fleas. Anyhow, I think I�ll sleep inside tonight!
Thur. Sept 21, 2000 10:00 A.M.
This Monday, I�m going on a missions trip with Cha Cho to Acapulco, MX! We�ll be there a few days preaching in various churches. I guess we�ll be walking alot with everything we need in our backpacks. I�m really looking forward to it! I am excited about what God is going to do! Thanks for all your prayers and encouraging e-mails!
p.s. for those of you who know I like donuts....they call them "pan de dulce" which means sweet bread. Actually pan de dulce is any kind of bread with sugar and such. I stopped by a "panader�a" yesterday on the way home from the computer shop to buy some "pan de dulce". I bought a whole bag of pan de dulce for 9 pesos, that�s about one dollar!!! I was pretty happy as I walked home chewing on a piece of pan de dulce! ....this was for those of you who know that I like donuts!!! Yah, I�m having fun, too!
Thurs. Sept 21, 2000 5:30 P.M.
When I got to Mexico City, I found a taxi and made it to the bus station. (The taxi driver and I had a good time trying to talk all the way there. He spoke no English! It was a blast. I found out that he was a Catholic.) I arrived at the bus station and found the bus line, "Pegaso" as instructed by Cha Cho. (p.s. don�t forget I have a 50 lb sack on my back, a 45 lb toolbox in my right hand and pulling a 50 lb suitcase with my left hand. Not extra fun!!) The lady at Pegaso couldn�t understand a word I said and I couldn�t under stand much of what she said. Finally she handed me the keyboard from her computer and I typed my name in. I was able to tell her I wanted to go to Morelia and she pointed to the screen to tell me how much to pay!! Quite an experience!
A lady sat beside me on the bus and we talked in Spanish for about an hour. I can�t say much in Spanish, but we could somehow talk about an awefully lot of stuff without me knowing much. When we got to the bus station in Morelia, I need to catch one more bus to make it to Zacapu. This lady helped me find the bus line, get the ticket and got me on the bus. I have to wonder if maybe she wasn�t an angel. That bus station was a zoo. Without her, I don�t know if I would have made it! The LORD always takes care of us!!!! Thank you LORD!
The rest of the trip to Zacapu was fairly uneventful....yah right, in Mexico? Well there�s always stuff to talk about.
I�m staying with Cha Cho and Lupita Rodtrigu�z. They have 2 girls, Hazalia and Sarai, ages 13 and 8 respectively. Another girl, Ab�, has been living with them for the past year and 2 months. She�s 21. It has been such a blessing being with them. They can all speak English, but of course Spanish is their primary language, so I�m right in the middle of a Spanish family! They are teaching me new words constantly!
On Tues., Cha Cho showed me a brick shed behind their house with a tin roof that he thought I could live in. Inside it was full of old junk, spider webs, and dirt. The room is about 10 by 12 feet inside. I spent most of Tues. cleaning it out. I met a friendly lizard about 10 inches long that kept me company. I washed the floor, swept the walls, and took up occupancy. I actually slept there since tues. night. There�s holes along the roof, etc. that raccoons could fit in, but quien sabe? who cares? The LORD has been taking good care of me. My little house is actually pretty cozy. I�m using a hammock now, but I may build a bed. I named my new house, "La Casa de Paz". It means the house of peace. I felt that the LORD told me to name it that yesterday.
Every morning at 8, Cha Cho, Lupita, Ab� and I have prayer at the church. Sometimes others from the church show up. It is so refreshing. The LORD is working in my heart. I feel that He is bringing the passion back for Him that I used to have. I�m praying for more passion for Jesus. I�m starting to really look forward to those times. We pray and worship for about an hour. I can feel the presence of God so much. The Spanish music is so beautiful. We pray in Spanish mostly, but it is so sweet.
Last night, I played keyboard while Cha Cho played guitar for the service. I�ve got to learn these Spanish songs quickly!!!
So what have I been doing? Sometimes I go with Cha Cho to cell groups. They have cell groups every day. Sometimes more than one. Cha Cho�s goal is to teach people how to evangalize others and bring people with no knowledge of Jesus to become mature Christians. These cell groups are times of excellent teaching. I�m getting quite a bit out of it myself. I can understand quite a bit of it even though it�s in Spanish. It�s not too hard to understand Spanish, but speaking it for me is quite another story. I also help some on the church. They are putting 2 bathrooms in right now, so I�m helping some there. There�s plenty of hands-on-things to do. In the middle of it all, I�m trying to learn Spanish really hard. Cha Cho is giving me 20 new words to learn almost every day. I have to write EACH word 20 times and then I get quizzed! I�m starting to learn a little.
Well, that�s about it, nothing much happening, ya know. Just the same old.....like I said before, "ya, right!".
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I organized my journal by date. Click on any one below. Sept. to Dec.
2000Jan. to June
2001June to Dec.
2001Jan. to June
2002June to Dec.
2002Jan. to June
2003