A Secret...

It was dusk when I arrived at her home, and I spotted smoke filtering up through her thatch roof. I ducked under the thatch to go in the doorway. As my eyes adjusted to the dim light inside, I saw her smiling radiantly at me from behind the low table behind which she sat. A bowl of masa sat beside her as her hands deftly worked some of it into a perfectly round tortilla which she placed on her comal over the fire. Minutes after I walked in, her two oldest daughters came in from high school and I watched the three of them sit by the fire and chat, catching up on the latest news, as fresh, hot tortillas kept coming off the comal. Soon her hands were joined by those of her daughters and I, and the tortilla production moved faster. I shared in the stories and laughter, mostly in Maya, with a little English mixed in every once in a while to clarify something for me. Mother and daughters’ fellowship was sweet, light, and beautiful to behold. One of her girls, Sandra, lives with me most of the time, so this was “catch-up” time. She told Sandra stories of the latest antics of the children, spiced with interjections from the next oldest girl. Sandra laughed merrily. Everyone’s eyes sparkled in the firelight. Then we swapped “Sandra” stories, me telling some of the funny things Sandra has done at my house, and her launching into stories from when Sandra was young.

Presently the other children appeared from outside, fresh faced and breathless from their play and helping with chores. One carried a tub of dishes they had just washed at the creek. Most had just bathed there as well. The weather was cool, in the low 60’s, and the children’s hands felt cold as they wrapped them around my neck. Soon her husband came in and we all quickly gathered around the low table upon which she had just made tortillas, it now served as our dining table, even though it was only about 3’ x3’. Hot tortillas were plunged into the warm broth in our dishes, spiked with flavorful but spicy peppers, and containing a piece of venison. Conversation mellowed as I chatted with her husband about the church (he is the pastor).  Steaming cups of tea finished off our meal.

I relaxed in the hammock briefly before we walked over to the church. As the hammock rocked back and forth, the youngest, a three year old boy, nestled beside me and told me stories with his precious lisp. This challenged my Maya skills and he giggled over the English word I used: “what.” He loved the word, and would promptly say it whenever anyone called his name, though I am not sure he really knew what it meant.

Church service was by candle light. She was there, of course, as the pastor’s wife, and I smiled at her on the front bench with her children gathered around her. She was still smiling, a radiant smile that made you feel that all was well. She and most of her children were barefoot, but hair was neatly combed and clothes freshly changed. After we joyfully sang a number of Maya songs without accompaniment, it was time for prayer. I listened to her prayer, and I was humbled. Hers was not full of prayers for herself and her needs. It was an outpouring of thanks for blessings God had given her, followed by sincere prayers for people she knew in need. Then she prayed for me, thanking God for me, praying for my safety, that I would have food to eat the next day, and strength for what God called me to do. She prayed for her daughter that lives with me. Finally she prayed that God would give her faith to love Him more. I couldn’t resist peeping over while she prayed, and as the candlelight danced around her, it lit her face up beautifully, dancing off her prominent cheekbones and accentuating her lovely features. In her sincere thankfulness, the joy in her spirit combined with the glow of the candle made it seem as if I had been given a glimpse into heaven and those gathered before the throne of God.

After service, we went to the house, and I was given a bed. It was the only bed in the house, the one she and her husband usually sleep on; that night they slept on the cement floor surrounded by their children. Temperatures dipped into the upper 50’s that night, inside and out, the floor was cold, and they were all dressed in short sleeves and bare feet.

Early the next morning, sometime after four, I heard her stir the fire. I got up shortly, along with the two high school girls. We all huddled around the fire and chattered a little before the two girls dashed to the creek to take a quick bath. Soon I was sipping something warm and thinking about the day before me. All too soon the school buses were heard in the distance. I said a quick goodbye and slipped out the door with the girls, leaving the rest of the family still asleep. The bus driver had agreed to take me along, so I was thankful for the transportation.

I arrived back at my house, and thought on the contrast. As simple as my home is compared to many in the States, I have so many more things than she does. I have running water, a small stove and refrigerator. She goes to get water in buckets and cooks over a fire. No refrigerator. I have lights; she has gas lamps made out of empty glass jars. I have a shower and a toilet; she has a creek and a tumble-down outhouse, two people live in my house (Sandra and I) and I have two beds; she has nine people in her house and one bed. The list goes on.

Later I find time to do some writing for a company I have been doing some work on the side for to provide a little extra income. Today the task is writing descriptions for a furniture company. Although writing usually comes easy for me, today I struggle to find words to describe a chair that costs $500.00 or $1,000.00 in our Belizean currency. I write: “Though sleek and modern, this chair flirts with tradition, just like you do. Clean, smooth lines are paired with the surprising touch of nail heads, usually associated with a more traditional look. But nothing about your home is usual, so the chair fits right in. So go ahead, flirt with tradition a little, whether in your entry, living room, or bedroom, the creamy linen of this chair will quietly add a fresh look.” I think of her. I think of her obvious happiness. I think of her home… furniture list includes: one homemade bed, three narrow, regular height tables which serve as cabinets, the low table for making tortillas, three 8-inch high stools each made of three rough pieces of 2 x 6, a hammock, and two cheap plastic lawn chairs. That’s it. Probably all that is in her house didn’t cost more than that 500.00 chair. And yet, I would imagine whoever buys that chair has never been as happy as she is. That person chooses exposed nail heads as a fashion statement; she has nothing else out of sheer necessity. And while the furniture I wrote about was way out of my league both in price and style, I wondered if her happiness with the simple things was within my reach. She has a secret… 

What to write??

“What to write?” I asked the Lord as I stared at my computer screen.

 I know there are those who want to hear what’s happening in these jungles oh so green.

 They’ve given to the work,

And at the blog they often look.

Yet, what to say?

 The question torments day by day.

They want to hear of Bible studies in Poite, how the truck is still carrying us there in spite of its improvised parts. They want to know how the new Saturday discipleship program is going, if people’s lives are being touched. They expect to hear great tales of exploits for the Lord. But what to tell them?

Who would be excited to know that the pickup has sat for the last four weeks at two different mechanic shops waiting to be fixed? Is it thrilling to know that the Bible studies have not been resumed because we don’t have transportation, that the Saturday discipleship hasn’t started because we don’t have a way to bring people here from the junction, or even to go and invite them in the first place? Lord, what do I say?

Who wants to know that the man who was supposed to know if land was available for the pig project was out of the country on the week I had been told to go and see him? What excitement does it bring to say that even now, he still says I must wait another month to hear?

Is anyone interested in the fact that I was able to purchase a lawnmower to keep my yard mowed? Do they care that the new lawnmower is such a relief after the old one that was held together with I don’t know how many wires? I am blessed to have a lawnmower that doesn’t always have the gas tank falling off or a wheel, but will others see that as a blessing?

Would it impress anyone to know that I am perfecting the art of knowing when the approaching clouds will just give a light sprinkle that won’t affect the laundry much, or when it will be a downpour and I better bring the clothes in?

Does it give pleasure to say that I nearly cried in frustration when I called the mechanic last week when the pickup was finally supposed to be ready, only to find out that they wouldn’t even start working on it until this week? Or that right in the middle of writing this update, I heard of more delays on the truck, and I did shed a few tears?

Should I tell them of all these little things and more?

Or should I tell them of all the “little” blessings You have brought in my life?

• That the refrigerator is still working, even though I thought it was dead.
• That I was able to coordinate transportation to get one of our dear pastors to the hospital late in the night, even though I didn’t have transportation myself.
• That the family of the girl who lives with me offered to provide local foods from their farm anytime I want – a relief to the budget and a blessing to the palate!
• That a man from another mission working here in Belize has taken my pickup under his arm, bringing in parts from the States, towing the truck, dealing with the mechanics… what a blessing he is to us!
• That I was able to get a water purifier, so that I don’t have to buy water every week – which would be a challenge right now without a vehicle. God’s timing is perfect!
• That I can walk across my yard, step over the fence, go around the parsonage, and arrive at a church – a blessing since I don’t have wheels to take me further.
• That even though this close by church speaks K’ekchi and I only understand Maya, I can still worship with other believers.
• That others who have vehicles think of me and take me to service in other villages on occasion.
• That my almost three year old godson came and spent four days with me and gave me lots of snuggles.
• That I have been able to visit my dear friends several times in Belmopan, attend church with them, and have some wonderful fellowship.
• That some other dear friends of mine saved the very last of their young corn (before it got too mature) to fix a special meal for me when I returned from the States.

Should I continue with this list of blessings? Or should I tell of the things you have been working in my heart and the opportunities You have given me to share with others?

• In spite of all the delays in what I think should be happening, I can trust Your plan. I can let You instruct me and change me and equip me.
• For the time You gave me to speak in Pueblo Viejo when the pastor was away. How the story of Zaccheus spoke to my heart. Just because Jesus was present, Zaccheus’ life was transformed. Not because of a message, not because Jesus rebuked him, but simply the presence of Jesus Christ brought conviction to his heart and he took action. If the presence of God is not changing my life, perhaps I’ve left Your presence. Lord, may Your life transform mine!
• That You give me times to be Christ to those around me – the person next to me on the bus whose wild children keep banging into me and running up and down screaming, to the mechanic who suggested I put some old fuel injectors in my pickup, to the people who gave me a ride the other day, saving my steps.
• For the two opportunities I had to speak truth into the same person’s life; long, deep conversations that challenged that person to greater depths in his walk with God.

The list goes on… truly Lord You have blessed with opportunities. They may not be great and amazing to man’s eyes, but they are Your work nonetheless.

Thank You, Lord, for those who speak to my soul, like the man who is helping with the pickup. When he told of the news of more repairs, he told me, “Do not be discouraged.  God is on your side.  This too shall pass.” I needed to hear that. Thank You, Lord, for Your truth.

And to those who have made it this far in my post… I think you get a little picture of what has been happening here in Belize. No, it hasn’t been as I planned, but God continues to hold my hand and guide my steps. I am so thankful to be His child! He alone is faithful and true! He is the One that gives us breath, Who gives a reason to sing and rejoice, Who gives a smile for those around us, and offers to shine His abundant life through our fleshly bodies, if we only let Him. To Him alone be praise!

A different season

Ecclesiastes 3:1 states, "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven." How quickly life passes through its seasons! Some changes are hailed with great joy, while other seasons bring tears as they depart. What great peace and joy is there for those who trust the Master of the Universe to change the seasons as He sees fit - He does it for the great glory of His kingdom and the joy of His dear ones. He can be absolutely trusted!

Season changes have been the order of the day for T.E.A.M. lately! One we are very grateful for - a break in the intense dry season we endured for what seemed like forever! March - May are usually hot here, but oh my, we had quite the dry season this year! However, God has graciously sent rain to the land and we are very grateful.

The other change is almost as predictable as the dry season and rainy season: my annual summer trip to the States. I think by now I would have realized the fact that I experience the hottest season in Belize only to follow it up with the hottest time in Oklahoma! Well, I HAVE realized it, but you would think I would make a change in my schedule to hit some better seasons! Ah well, what can I say?

This season change brought both tears and happiness. I have been so blessed to have my very dear friends living in the house adjacent to me since January, and it was sad to break up our little "family." There were seven of us in all, Sandra and I in my house, William, Irma, their two precious boys, and Clifford in the other. What a blessing this time was! We gardened, mowed lawns, celebrated birthdays, traveled, had devotions, and generally kept each other company. I was blessed by their presence, and the way they helped me in so many ways. It was a precious time that I am sorry to have come to a close. However, I am always grateful for an opportunity to see my family here in the States. Thus the reason for the mix of emotions at the change of seasons.

I miss these bright eyes!

I left Belize on the 17th, after spending the 16th in Spanish Lookout doing some pricing for the pig project. We are making great progress on plans - streamlining efficient models for the pastors' pig raising facilities, looking at property, and finalizing equipment lists for the processing plant. Of course the most important preparation for the project is prayer. We know it is far bigger than we can handle, and we do not have funds to move forward, but we know that our Father is not limited by our inabilities or lack of funds, and if He wants to be glorified through this project, He can certainly provide the funds for it! We pray that we keep in step with His leading, so that His will might be done!

One of the properties we are looking at.

The same evening I left, Clifford, Magdalena, and at least six others (I forgot to get the exact count) headed out to Poite for Bible study again. We are thankful that the Lord had His hand on the truck and allowed them to arrive safely. I heard good reports of their time. This was the last study for a while until I get back. The truck is still not running well, and we felt it best to hold off until I can bring the part from the States. Also, it takes some pressure off the gas budget for the time being. While continuity in the studies would have been a good thing, we trust the Lord's leading and that He will continue the work He is doing. After all, it is His work and not our own!

I would appreciate your prayers for me while in the States. I am trying to make progress on a website, continue with research on the pig project, as well as prepare for some intensive discipleship we are planning for the beginning of September. I also hope to have some speaking opportunities as the Lord gives opportunity.

I would also appreciate your prayers for Magdalena and Clifford while I am away. Magdalena continues to work with her husband in their small vegetable shop, and Clifford is seeking a job to make some extra money in the interim. Pray for God's hand of blessing on both of them!

Cooler weather, and still rolling...

Greetings once again!

Last Monday brought welcome relief... it was the first morning in probably two months that I woke up to a temperature of less than 80 degrees in the house! I was excited to finally see a break from all the heat we have been having. It was such a hot dry season!!! Most of the country only received 20-25% of its usual rainfall. Everything was dry, fires were burning, and crops were not growing. But God mercifully sent rain last Monday, and it has continued since then. We are all so blessed and thankful for the rain, in spite of the muddy roads and the difficulty getting clothes dry!

We appreciate your prayers for the truck. We ended up not going to Poite that Friday after all... it was still in the same shape as the previous week when we didn't make it all the way there. Since then we have found out it MAY be the air flow sensor. We haven't been able to get a new part yet, but modifying the existing part with a phone card and a sieve has helped a great deal!! All six cylinders actually kick in, which is a far cry better than three!

So... we made it to Poite this past Friday. It was wonderful. Pastor Martin was soooo thrilled to see us. They had been worried. We had no way to call them, but had passed on a message with someone on the school bus. However, as is typical in these areas that lack good means of communications, there were several versions floating around of how far we had made it when we attempted to go, that we had arrived in the village at midnight that night, etc. Poor Pastor Martin did not know what to believe! He was greatly relieved to see our little white pickup pull up to his house.

Bible study went well, although the crowd was understandably a little smaller due to the fact that they didn't know if we were coming or not. We talked about God calling Abram to leave his family and familiar surroundings and go to a land... that God would tell him. I am always blown away by the faith this required. Abram believed God, and because he believed, the very next verse said that he went out as God had said. Faith and obedience... and it was counted to him for righteousness.

As I brought the lesson to a close, I talked briefly about the different things that God might be calling us to do that seem impossible, unreasonable, scary, overwhelming, etc. For some of the people present, it might mean giving their lives to Christ for the first time, for others it might mean forgiving someone that has hurt them, for others, making a difficult stand for Christ. Whatever the situation, I encouraged all of us to be as Abram, to believe and obey, and suggested taking a moment to pray at the altar before we closed. The Lord was at work, and most everyone came up to pray. Please join us in praying for a continued work in all of our hearts!

Prayers for the Wheels, Please!

Greetings once again! I rejoicing that because of God's great mercy and love I can still continue

to live for Him day by day! What riches of mercy He showers so freely upon all of us!

I wanted to post this morning to request your prayers for the pickup. It has been in and out of the mechanic a LOT lately. We changed the fuel pump in March, then we had to replace the ball joints. But the engine has been running very rough lately. In fact, last Wednesday, on the way back from church, we nearly didn't make it back. Thursday we changed the spark plugs, and on Friday the mechanic took off the muffler system, thinking it was clogged. He decided that was not the problem, and said it is only running on three of its six cylinders. But, he felt like it would be fine going to Poite that evening for Bible study.

So... off we went! Unfortunately we never made it. Thankfully, if you let it sit for a while after it has been shutting down, it will eventually start running again, so we made our way slowly back home.

It is back at the shop today and we are praying it become roadworthy by tomorrow evening so we can make it to the Bible study in Poite this week. We would greatly appreciate your prayers!!

In the meantime, I continue to be blessed with opportunities to invest in people's lives on a personal basis, whether it is my dear friends living beside me and their children, my coworkers, the young lady living with me, etc. This past week I had an unexpected conversation with some men who came to talk to me about some land they had for sale. Very non-Christian sort of people who I have seen around for a number of years, so I have an idea of their rough background. Because of the rumors that the world was going to end on May 21st, they began to ask me some questions. What a great opportunity to share a little of the truth of God's word with them! It was just another example of the doors God can open in His time and way!

Clifford has been investing time building a relationship with a young man here in Big Falls. The guy has been coming to church, but his parents are nominal catholics. He (Israel) has also been travelling with all of us to Poite fairly often. We are praying that the Lord will draw him to Himself and bring him to salvation.

Magdalena's husband is the teacher for the adult Sunday school class here in Big Falls. Please continue to pray for their family as well.

And, in closing, a few pictures :)

Breakfast buddy :)

Our newest studio technician for the Bible study recordings. ;)

Children at church in Pueblo Viejo this past Sunday. I rode along on the bus with the church from Big Falls to share in service at Pueblo.

No males allowed!!! :)

Yesterday evening was girls' night at my house. Sunday morning as I sat in church here in Big Falls, I watched different girls get up and participate in the service. As I did so, I began to think about the fact that now that I live in a village I can actually have girls over at my house. When I was at the Center, it was too far away to have just girls over some evening, so I had never done so. But now... things are different. So I invited the teen girls from the church over to my house yesterday evening.

It has been hot here. Excruciatingly hot. Like so hot and dry that creeks that "never" get dry are dry. In my house yesterday afternoon it was 95 degrees plus 54% humidity = 108 degree heat index. And so... I wondered what to do with a bunch of girls at my house. We would all roast if we sat inside. So, we swept off the flat, cement roof of the house and decided it would be the coolest spot (there are step going up there - it is set up to build a second floor). We carried a table up there, graced it with flowers from the yard, spread some sheets for a seating area, and called it good. I decided to serve fruit salad and scones... but NO hot tea! Instead we had blended ice coffee... perfect for the heat.

Seven girls ages 15-18 arrived at my house by 5:30. Sandra, of course, was already here, so that made eight of them. We munched on our snacks, played a game, then delved into a devotion - casting a vision for the girls to be different than the world, to give their lives to God completely and expect Him to transform them into something completely different than their peers. To focus on the things of God, and He would give them a beauty that radiates from within, regardless of whether they fit in with the "in" crowd. We had a good discussion afterward, with the girls sharing things that were particularly difficult for them, then closed in a time of prayer.

I think that everyone enjoyed it, and I pray that the Lord planted seeds in their hearts that will grow and blossom. We need young women to stand up and be a light to this world!

Friday... again!

It is Friday, once again! That means we will be off to San Benito Poite this evening to talk about God's remnants, and fascinating truths from Noah's ark! Please pray for safety as we go, God's Words to be spoken through us, and a safe trip back home (still waiting to get the ball joints changed on the truck - so the bumpy road always reminds me to rest in God's care).

Also, the Maya Bible study radio program continues to air every Saturday and Sunday, so we would appreciate your prayers for that as well - that God would use the words spoken to stir up faith in the hearts of the hearers so that they might draw closer to Him!

The Heavens Declare the Glory of God!

This was the sunrise from my rooftop one Friday morning… isn't it glorious?

I am thankful that God shows us His glory in nature! Beauty such as this refreshes my soul and reminds me of the greatness of God's mercy and love for us! That same Friday, in the evening, as we travelled to Poite for Bible study we saw quite a few howler monkeys in the trees. On other trips we have seen pairs of toucans, a white hawk, and many other creatures, making the long, bumpy drive a fascinating tour of God's creation.

I am blessed by the beautiful displays of God's handiwork, however there are more difficult aspects of God's handiwork as well, such as storms and earthquakes that bring destruction and cost lives. I am reminded of the Scriptures that tell us that at the end of times there will be an increase of earthquakes and other natural disasters, as well as the increase of wars and other troubles. What a good reminder for these difficult times we find in Luke 21:34-36: "But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap. For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth. But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man." May the Lord make us watchful so that we might not become overcome with the cares of this life… may we keep our eyes on Him, looking for His coming, rather than dreading the difficulties that surround His coming because of the sin of this world!

We want rain!

Its been a while since we had rain, and its been miserably hot! Sometimes in the afternoon it reaches up to 103 degrees!! Two days ago we had rain, and it was so so good to have rain. The grass is looking green but it needs more! Yesterday evening was cloudy, and we had expected rain on our way to Poite but we didn't care, we want rain! Some of the guys carried extra clothes in case they get wet on the way. We packed up our gears and got in the pickup and we headed our way to Poite! [It never did rain after all :( ]

There was a girl who went with us, she recently got saved at one of the youth service I was at on Good Friday! She has stories to tell, stories that are sad and painful. It hurts me to hear about it, but I know that she found her Savior that would care for her, meet her special needs and get special care and attention! She has a heart to serve God, and is excited despite the hurts and pains she has gone through! She had left home and is currently living with a relative. Her dad is serving years.

Some of the exciting part of going to Poite is seeing wildlife of Belize! That always interests me and I love seeing animals and birds of Belize! On our way yesterday evening, we saw the friendly howler monkeys! They were just a "stone throw" by the roadside, oh that was so exciting. I just wish I had a camera then to take pictures.

When we reach Poite, there were a few guys from Corozal (Northern Part of the Country), helping with plastering the church building! That is a blessing for the Poite brethren.

Last night's Bible study was wonderful! It is such a blessings to see Maggi, our Kekchi teacher, taking seriously the word of God and sharing and teaching it in a way where it is easily understood!

Please continue praying for our ministry, for Delores, the girl who went with us to Poite for Bible Study, for the brothers and sisters in Poite who are faithful in coming to the Bible Study, pray for Rebecca is she fly back to the country on Monday, pray for Maggi who teaches the Bible Study as well.

Serving Him,

Clifford Cal

Lesson 8...

We taught lesson 8 of our Bible study series about five weeks ago in San Benito Poite. I have been meaning to tell you all about it, but I keep getting tied up with other things. This scorching Sunday afternoon seems like the time to do it. It is 96 degrees in my room at the moment, but the humidity is down to 20%, so that helps a good deal. Not sure I remember the humidity being this low here before, but then I haven't always had a gauge.

This morning I went to church in Santa Cruz. There is a fair going on at one of the local high schools, and bus loads of people were going from every village, so the attendance at church was low. In fact, besides the pastor and my neighbor/friend who came with me along with his wife and children, there were no other men present. However, there were four or five women, plus a couple of young ladies, and some children. We had a good service in spite of our small numbers, and I think they were encouraged by my coming, since I don't get there real often. I ended up taking the pastor and his motorcycle back with me, as the bike was not running.

But back to Bible study lesson 8...

The first seven lessons of our Bible study series deal with the topic of "Who is God." We explore various names and attributes of God before moving on to lesson eight, entitled "Who is Satan." Lesson eight explores the fall of Lucifer, the current state of the enemy, as well as his prophesied future. After lesson eight we move on to the creation of man, God's purpose for man, and then on through main highlights of the Old Testament.

In each of the three places where we have progressed through to lesson eight, it invariably has the same effect. In this culture, we struggle to get discussions going in the Bible studies. People are geared to sit and be "lectured" in the Bible, rather than discussing the truths for themselves. And so... during the first seven lessons, we work hard to try to get involvement, but it usually doesn't progress too well, until... we get to lesson eight.

Lesson eight comes along, and every one starts talking, discussing the scriptures, exclaiming over the truths. It is a remarkable thing. And yet, really it isn't. Not if you understand the background of the culture here. It is a background steeped with darkness and evil. A background where people live in fear of 'obeah' - a curse inflicted by a bush doctor. Some people hire bush doctors to obeah their enemies. Difficult sicknesses are usually blamed on obeah. In fact, a long time member of one of our churches refused to let me take his wife to the doctor because his bush doctor told him that another bush doctor had obeahed the lady and it was too strong to be broken. Going to the doctor would be a waste of time. The lady died. From complications of a miscarriage.

Darkness. Fear. It is here. Even among church-goers there is talk of it. Sick people are told, "maybe someone has obeahed you." I have been told that.

And so... a lesson showing the limited power of the enemy. A lesson declaring the truth speaks volumes. Even though we don't go into great detail of Christ's power over the enemy (that comes in a later lesson), the verses we do share promote discussion, give hope. Maybe, just maybe there is freedom from this fear.

Please pray that God's word will continue to go forth, shine its light, and bring hope to a needy people.

We saw this fellow on the road to Poite Friday evening... the week before we saw 9 Toucans!!!

Baptisms!

Yesterday I went to San Jose for service... well I shouldn't say I did... there were 11 of us in all, plus some speakers and keyboards... let's just say we were loaded!

It was a lovely service, special guests, a baby dedication, but the highlight was the baptisms. It was Pastor Bernaldino's first time to conduct baptisms, and he did a wonderful job. Seven young parents were baptized. What a joy to see them taking this step! Please pray for their spiritual growth, and that they will remain faithful to the Lord and forsake their former way of life.

What a mighty God we serve!

First Program on the Air!

We are so blessed that the Lord made it possible for the first Maya program to be aired on the small Christian radio station down here. Several of the local Nazarene pastors have worked together with us to record some discussions of our Bible study lessons, and Clifford has spent many hours editing and preparing them to air. Saturday evening the first lesson aired!!

Please pray with us:

That the lessons would help many come to know God in a way they never understood before.

That believers would be strengthened in their faith.

For provision to keep the program on the air - it costs us to have it aired.

Above all... That God's name would be glorified!!!

More details about graduation/ordination

The people of southern Belize are often looked down upon by the rest of the country. Those of Maya and K'ek'chi descent are even more so. They struggle to get adequate health care... prejudice abounds. Things are changing, but ever so slowly.

I could tell you story after story of battles I have fought trying to get necessary medical attention for my beloved Maya and K'ekchi friends and fellow heirs of the kingdom of God. It has wounded my heart to see them treated so.

Adding to these difficulties, misunderstandings even developed in the church. Perhaps because of the difficulties in traveling to the southern area, the difficulties of the Indians traveling north, the lack of funds to attend Bible Schools or training, and/or the communication problems, the Indian pastors had not been able to receive the same opportunities for education and advancement as those in the northern parts. Because of these difficulties and the fact that the larger population was in the northern part of the country, the leadership of the Church of the Nazarene was mainly from the north. These difficulties separated the two uniquely different cultures and it was difficult to gain an understanding of the people’s needs in the southern part. There were only 2 ordained pastors in the south and the plight of the Indian churches remained unnoticed.

Occasionally, people from the States would come and hold workshops for the people in the South, trying to do what they could to help, but it was sporadic, and the records were often lost, or they were told that it wouldn't be credited toward the course of studies. This went on over a period of more than twenty years (more than that if you count from the establishment of the first Church of the Nazarene in Toledo)...

The churches struggled, the pastors became discouraged, but they kept on. In January of 2002, following a hurricane in October of 2001, a series of seminars was begun by my uncle, Tom Pound to try to help the pastors finish the course of studies, with the goal of graduating and getting ordained. I was privileged to come and help with that first seminar, caught a glimpse of God's heart for this beautiful people, and came to stay in October of 2002. Since then I have had the privilege of doing the footwork for many seminars, coordinating services for local licenses, helping with lots of the logistics, but most precious to me is the times I have spent listening to the heart cry of the pastors, talking through their frustrations with them, encouraging them to press on. Sharing in their frustrations and tears. Feeling their pain. Sharing in the prejudice from others, since I was working among these people.

Thus... this Sunday, as I watched eleven people from down here, plus two Mayas living up north (two other non-Mayas graduated with them) march up the aisle wearing the caps and gowns of graduation, tears coursed down my cheeks. This was a great cause for celebration...my tears previous tears of sadness were replaced with tears of joy. What an accomplishment for these men and women! Years and years of study, wondering if it would ever be counted and result in graduation, were finally culminated in this joyous day. Many people had worked, hoped, and prayed for this day, and what a day it was!

Moments later, six of those men walked forward again, this time welcomed by a choir made up of the the ordained elders of Belize singing "Called unto Holiness." Now they were being ordained as elders. More tears. What a blessed time!

We are so excited for all of those that graduated and those who were ordained, those from down here in the South, as well as those from elsewhere. God's goodness and mercy is great! We rejoice in this step for the church here in Belize, and pray that continued changes will occur. I pray for those that were unable to graduate. Some stopped because of sickness, some for other reasons, but my heart cried for them on Sunday, they should have been among those graduating. But... we trust God's plans and purposes and pray that His will continues to be done.

This is Bro. Ramon, now Rev. Ramon Coc, a man I greatly admire, his wife, and I. He is 66 years old, and remained faithful through years of study to graduate and be ordained this past Sunday. Ever since I came to Belize, I have watched Bro. Ramon faithfully ride his bike ever Sunday and Wednesday over ten miles one way to go preach. He was saved as an older adult, and taught himself to read so he could read God's word.

He was given a motorcycle, but continues to peddle to preach. When asked why, Bro. Ramon said something to the effect of, "If I take the motorcycle, I have to buy gas to power it, but if I go on my bike, I just need to eat." What an amazing man of God he is! I pray God multiplies his ministry, as well as the ministry of the others who graduated or were ordained. I also pray God continues to work mightily for those who just as faithfully serve Him without graduation.

Graduation/Ordination Day - Give glory to God!!!!

More details soon! :)

Please pray... for the District Assembly

We are looking forward to the annual District Assembly for the Belize District Church of the Nazarene being held for the first time ever down in Toledo! It will take place right at the center/campground where I used to live starting tomorrow, and concluding Sunday with a graduation/ordination service. We are excited about several of our pastors here in Toledo finally getting ordained after many years. This is a great milestone!!!!

Please pray for everything to take place in a way that honors our Lord.

Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ. (1 Corinthians 11:1)

This verse stood out to me this Sunday, and I thought about it as I bounced along the dusty road in the back of my pickup. I don't usually ride in the back of my truck, but I decided to after church on Sunday. Looking up at the beautiful blue sky contrasted with the brilliant green of the lush greenery on either side of the road gave me a perfect chance to meditate on the truths of Scripture for a while.

Paul understood that people, by nature, are imitators. Oh, they may say they like to be unique, but ultimately, most of the time, people end up doing the same things that others have done. Obviously there are exceptions, but I am speaking in broad, general terms here.

You have heard the saying, "monkey see, monkey do," right? Well, I am not saying us humans are descendants of monkeys, but I do propose that we often practice the same habit! And by the way, photographed this guy last week. Isn't he... ummm... cute? :)

In fact, Sunday night, in church, I brought up this idea of "monkey see, monkey do," because I was in a K'ekchi church. I can communicate in Maya, but not K'ekchi, so when everyone was laughing at what the speaker was saying, I had the choice of keeping a serious face because I had no idea what he was saying, or I could "monkey see, monkey do," and laugh because everyone else was! You see, opportunities to imitate others abound everywhere!

Anyway, Paul understood that we act like monkeys. Oops, I mean that Paul understood human nature tends to imitate, to follow those who somehow we deem worthy of imitating. Often it is not a result of purposeful meditation on who best to follow, but it is a bent in our nature, whether purposeful or subconscious. Paul suggested a model to follow, prompting the minds and spirits of his readers to make a purposeful choice about who they were going to follow, rather than making random, unconscious decisions which could lead them astray.

And this is what struck me... Paul didn't just tell people to imitate Christ, no, he told them to imitate or follow him... as he imitated or followed Christ. Paul was confident of his example to others, confident that if they followed him, they would ultimately be following Christ. As I thought upon this, I realized that Paul was not confident of himself, rather he was confident of Christ at work in Him. He was confident of the priceless treasure held in the earthen vessel of his life: "But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves;" (2 Corinthians 4:7).

We were all given the charge to make disciples... to call others to follow us as we follow Christ. Rather than wasting our time and energies imitating things of no value, may each of us press on toward the prize of the high calling we have in Jesus Christ, and as we do so, may we draw others to follow us in our quest.

What a challenge! What motivation to be, as God commands us to be, holy, as He is holy! Lord, purify our lives so that we might be faithful stewards of the treasure You have placed in our lives!

All in a days work...

A team from the States came down yesterday. I was supposed to go meet them in Belize City with my pickup to carry their luggage...

We headed out at 4:30 in the morning so I could take care of some errands before heading to the airport... got a little ways up the road... and...putter put. The fuel pump went out.

It had been slowly dying, and the team was bringing me a new one, but wouldn't you know it would choose yesterday to go out? So... traveled up on the bus, and was blessed by the District Superintendent loaning us his pickup to get the luggage in. The rest of the day was uneventful :)

I am thankful that God allowed the fuel pump to quit while we were still not far from home! It made towing it to the mechanic so much simpler today than if it had been halfway to Belize City or something! Thank you Lord for your perfect timing!

Giving honor where honor is due.

The day after the thatching event, I had the privilege of seeing a beautiful expression of appreciation. Even though we are to serve the Lord and not men, it is an encouragement to God's weary servants when someone recognizes their labors and shows sincere gratitude!

Bro. Bernaldino, Clifford's father, has been the pastor of the church in San Jose for many years, probably more than 20, although we are still trying to confirm the length. He has often been unwell, especially in the last few years, but he still faithfully goes to hold services. He is a quiet humble man who has won the respect of many.

Bro. Bernaldino has seven sons and one daughter ranging in age from 34 to 12. Clifford got his older brothers together and suggest the idea of a appreciation service for their dad. They all jumped on board the idea and set the date for the 22nd of January, hoping to completely surprise their dad. Bro. Bernaldino ended up inviting several of his sons and some others to help thatch a house on the 22nd, which pushed the service until the 23rd, but actually aided their secrecy: now they all had an excuse to be in the village that weekend.

They each contributed to make the day special, purchasing groceries to feed the entire congregation. I got to help with the work a little, and the whole process was a delight. All the brothers and sisters-in-law worked together to accomplish the task, fixing over 200 plates of food. They even secretly "stole" one of their mom's dresses to use as a pattern for a new dress for the occasion.

In spite of the great difficulty to keep a secret in a village, especially since many invitations were sent out, and in spite of Bro. Bernaldino and his wife wondering why all their kids kept disappearing, and in spite of their grandma almost giving it away, they managed to completely surprise them! It was so fun to see!

The family completely ran the service, sharing testimonies of thanks, singing songs, and inviting others to join as well. Clifford preached his first sermon in honor of the occasion. The joy on their parents' faces was heartwarming. The congregation brought gifts and shared testimonies as well, and everyone went home well fed.

For me, the most touching part was after the service at Bro. Bernaldino's house... hearing the two of them express their surprise and delight over and over, and the sons and daughter excitedly share how they kept the secret, was priceless. So was the excitement of Bro. Bernaldino and his wife over their gifts. They acted like newly weds! They were married before traditions had changed much here, so they didn't have the outpouring of gifts at their wedding that is common now. They really live very humbly with very little. And really, they weren't given LOTS of gifts, but the ones they did receive brought them great joy.

I came away that evening blessed from witnessing the expression of love and the resulting joy. I wish every day could be like that! But... we will have eternity to rejoice in the love of our Savior and rejoice in His presence! I think that will be more than enough to make up for the trials on this earth!

Wouldn't it be nice if something like that could be done for each pastor who has been serving for many years?

Ever Thatched a House?

Saturday Clifford and his brother William (William and his wife and two sweet boys are living next to me) were going to help their dad in San Jose thatch a house, so I tagged along. We left Friday evening, arriving in time for Clifford and William to help cut up the meat from the pig that had just been butchered to feed everyone the next day.

The next morning, invited friends and family started arriving to help: the men to thatch, and the women to cook. Thatching, although undoubtedly hard work, is a fun social time as well. With men on both sides of the roof at once, it goes pretty quickly, and a steady stream of banter and laughter fills the air along with the "swishing" of cohune leaves being handed up and positioned, and the stomping down of the leaves into place. Inside, the women gather around a low table deftly forming corn tortillas and placing them on the comal (round iron griddle over an open fire) to bake. Less banter and laughter occur inside, instead more of a subdued discussion of the latest happenings, current illnesses, etc.

Unfortunately, I had to leave to run some errands before all was said and done, but I did snap a few pictures before I left.

Two things I love about a thatch house: it is sooooo much cooler than a house with a metal or cement roof, and rain sounds lovely falling on the thatch! Mmmmmm nice sleeping! :)

Adventures in Poite

Bible studies in Poite continue to go well. God is so faithful! At the most recent one, we noticed more participation by the attendees, so that was an answer to prayer! We still have much more progress to make in that area, but little by little I trust that more will feel free to participate in the discussions.

Making the trip to Poite each week is always an adventure. It isn't a short trip... We leave around four in the evening, and return around 11:30 p.m. We usually have a crowd that goes along, which provides good fellowship in our travels. One night we saw an ocelot on the way home!

No, we didn't get a picture of it, but I found this picture to give you an idea.

A couple of Fridays ago, we came across some not so interesting creatures... Fleas! Roaming "local" pigs that are kept by villagers tend to spread fleas in dusty areas. Evidently Clifford walked through an area with a bunch of them, and he spent the ending of the Bible study trying to get rid of them. After Bible study ended a group of children joined his efforts, while the rest of us watched. These fleas quickly dig into the skin, where they will eventually lay eggs. And I mean quickly! Within minutes of walking through them, there were already digging into Clifford's toes and ankles. A few days later, both Magdalena's little daughter and Clifford had "treasures" to dig out of their feet - fleas that had been missed in the initial search. Ah well, the "joys" of ministering to others. We have to be willing to sacrifice and be uncomfortable in order to reach out to those who need it the most.

The next Sunday, Big Falls Church of the Nazarene planned a trip to Poite. We all decided to jump on the bus they chartered and go along, since it IS the closest to me! Wow... I realized again how blessed we are to be able to travel with the pickup. The bus was loaded, and the trip was slooooooowww!!! I know it takes us a long time to get there, but the bus went slower, and had to make more stops for "rest breaks."

Nonetheless, we finally made it and had a wonderful service! I should have snapped some pictures for you. The children sitting on a bench along the wall were adorable, and I wish you could have seen them. Pastor Andres gave Bro. Martin (the lay pastor in Poite) a local minister's license, there was much singing, testimonies, and a good sermon. What wonderful fellowship! To top it all off, the members at Poite had prepared a meal for all of us. Delicious chicken, turkey, and pork caldo (all separate, of course) was served along with poch (a sort of meatless tamale, kind of :) or fresh corn tortillas. In true Poite fashion, the food contained plenty of spicy pepper! It was a blessed day!

I have several more stories I want to share, but I will space them out over the next few days... I think I will even try to include a video in a post coming up soon. So stay tuned! Most of all, we covet your continued prayers for the work.

"New" year, but the same faithful God

"For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee." (Isaiah 54:10)

How good it is to know, that although the years may come and go, times may seem more uncertain, people may fail us, and even mountains may be crushed, God's faithfulness never fails, His kindness, mercy, and peace are always there there, never changing. None of us here on this earth know what this year holds - whether it will be full of joy, or filled with difficulties and sorrow. However, one thing we can know and be confident of, that God's mercy will still endure, He will always be faithful.

After spending three weeks with my wonderful family in the States, I arrived back in Belize a week ago. We have jumped right back into Bible studies, starting with Poite on Friday night. We were treated to a delicious meal upon our arrival, and had a good time of study. It seems that slowly the people are becoming more willing to participate in the discussion, instead of just listening. It is a challenge for them, especially for the women, to get over the custom of just sitting and listening, rather than actively participating. Many still struggle with reading, so we are using a combined method of oral teaching/discussion as well as reading with the goal of immediate learning in the oral teaching, but preparing for the long term by enabling them to read God's word for themselves.

Please pray for God's continued wisdom in conducting the Bible studies, as well as provision for travel as gas prices are up to 10.50 Bze per gallon.

Praising God for His faithfulness!