Coats Baptist Church Works on Mt. Horeb

 

We are excited to share Coats Baptist Church is our second team to volunteer on Mt. Horeb to help with the North American Dorms.  They arrived full of God moments before every going out to the Mt. Horeb.  Katie did a phenomenal job sharing God's word from the book of Acts.  She used several references when she shared and we discussed "What is an apostle?"    An apostle is spreading the gospel world wide to the ends of the earth. Men of the early church were called out by God to go and spread the gospel.  We are the apostles this week in Honduras.  We are here to continue the book of Acts.  I like the concept of all Christians sharing the gospel are the continuation of the book of Acts.  The book of Acts did not end on the last page.  It is still continuing today in this broke world we live in.  We are the light of the world, the hands and feet of Jesus.  We shared how we all need to surrender to God's design because we all have been called by God to be the apostles here on this earth.

We went into God moments, OMG....  Before the team every landed in Honduras they were blessed three different times and it happened to three different team members.  When North Americans travel to Honduras most of the time they are coming on a mission trip but this time one of the ladies, Susan met a kind young man, from Korea, who was coming to work here in Honduras.  He asked her was she a Christian.  She shared she was and what she was coming to Honduras to do.  He shared he was too and he will pray for her and the team this week as they share the gospel of Jesus Christ.  One of the Stewards ask Jimmy what he was coming here for and Jimmy shared to build a dorm for other mission teams to come stay in and serve the Lord as he is doing this week.  The steward thank him for serving the Lord.  The TSA questioned Anita about her trip and Anita shared they were going to Honduras and she also shared she would pray for her team.  This is the first time I have ever heard of a team being lifted up in prayer before ever landing in Tegus.  God is good all the time.  Dear sweet Julie said her entire day was a God moment.  She was petrified to fly before boarding and told God two other times no to this mission trip.  This year when the opportunity came around to sign up for 2014 she said I better not tell God no again.  I may never get another chance to serve HIM in Honduras.  Julie prayed and prayed as she flew through God's clouds.  As she continued to pray and fly a peace came over her she could not explain.  A peace only God can provide.  She shared how God is capable of taking care of all our needs if we would just let go and allow HIM to do it.    The Holy Spirit can lead our every step if only we would let go and let HIM...   I am grateful Julie listened to God and came to serve HIM in this beautiful country called Honduras.

This was only their first day in the country.  All God's people said AMEN!!!!!

 

8 kBut you shall receive power lwhen the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and myou shall be 3witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and nSamaria, and to the oend of the earth.”  Acts 1:8

 

 

      

 

First day and Scaffolding

 

The team preceded to the project after their introductions and prayer.  Their first job was to put up the scaffolding.  They brought each piece to the foundation and putting it together just like a puzzle.  Once the ladies finished  helping  get all the pieces to the location they proceeded to bring the blocks into the foundation and placing where they needed to go.  This took the team quiet a while to get set up before laying the first block.  But with abundance of team effort this got completed in record time.  Oso our pet rock wilder helped Wilmur sift the sand for the mescal.  Immanuel, Wilmur and Jose, our bus driver mixed the mescal this week for the blocks being laid. Each day a neighbor from down the path came with his two oxen hauling sand/rocks up to the multi purpose building for the floor which was going in as the team was working on the dorms.  A lot of good stuff is going on this week in the name of Jesus.  The first day was particularly hot, very warm actually,  but the second day God provided an awesome overcast with a gentle steady breeze blowing all day.  Thank you Coats Baptist for your perseverance as each block kept going up and up and up. 

 

2 This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands. 3 This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not burdensome.

1John 5:4          

 

Second Prayer of Blessing Over the North American Dorms

 

Time came to pray over the first block of the second team working at Mt. Horeb's dorms.  The group asked Pastor G to pray because like the last team the Honduran workers place their hands on the North Americans as Pastor G prayed a pray of thanksgiving for all the North Americans are doing for his country and people.  Tears flowed down my cheeks as Pastor G prayed for each of our children and grandchildren.  The love and gratitude these people have for others is definitely something I and others learn each and every day we serve beside our brothers and sisters in Honduras.  Laura shared during her devotional one evening how loving and serving the Lord should never be a burden to us.  Serving our Lord should be a honor and privilege each day.  Loving others is our way of abiding in God's will for our daily lives. 

 

2 This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands. 3 This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not burdensome.

1 John 5:4          

 

Thank you Laura

 

Laura, the team leader is a huge blessing to her team.  She brings love, laughter and lots of other stuff to the table.  She is a delightful and giving soul who loves serving her Lord and Savior.  She is an encourager for her fellow team mates as she leads the team this week.  Thank you Laura for all you do for others as you follow God's will for your life.  Many are blessed because of you and "whose you are."

 

"Well done good and faithful servant."

Matthew 25:21

North Carolina Baptist Men Breakfast

 

The gentlemen on the team, Danny, Jimmy, Jimmy G and Wallace got up each morning and cooked a good ole fashion Baptist Men breakfast. The fellows cooked a few pancakes, bacon, eggs, grits, toast and some delicious Honduras fruit.  It looked like buffet line at Golden Corral each morning.  But the blessing of all is while they guys were cooking, Katie came in behind them cleaning up the kitchen.  By the time breakfast was on the table the kitchen was clean accept for the utensils and cups being used during breakfast.  They enjoyed good time of fellowship as they ate each morning.  This was quiet a treat to enjoy a good ole fashion breakfast with fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.  While the breakfast crew was working hard Anita and Julie were making the sandwiches.  The ladies were done and cleaned up before the breakfast crew brought their feast to the table.  Thank you everyone for providing such a delightful way to each morning God had given us. 

 

Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, watching over them--not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve;
I Peter 5:2

Showers of Blessings

 

While the team was here last year Katie, one of the ladies on the team asked would I like some new linens for the mission house.  She came up with the idea of having a shower for the mission house.  So I gave her a wish list.  This year Coats Baptist returned with 20 bed pillows, twin sheet sets, full sheet sets and numerous dish rags for the kitchen.  Katie wanted to surprise Rosa with the many new items for the mission house.  We asked Rosa not to leave until the team had arrived in the afternoon.  Rosa waited patiently not sure why she had to hang around but was willing to wait and see.  Katie brought two suitcases of items for Rosa to check out.  Rosa was not quiet understanding what was happening until the tablecloth appeared.  She took it out of the luggage and wrapping went over to the dining table removed the dingy white one to replace it with a beautiful floral print table cloth.  This table cloth lighten up the dining area and Rosa all at the same time.  Mike and I received new towels for our bathroom with our very own names on them.  We have never owned any towels in our 35 years together with our names on them.  It was like Christmas in August.  Thank you Coats Baptist Church for such a generous blessing for the mission house in Choluteca.

 

 Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' "
Acts 20:35b

Doing our laundry

 

 

 

Three of our lovely ladies learned how to do their laundry Honduran style. Susan, Julie and Katie got out in the breeze way and Maida, our translator and jack of all trades got out there and gave them a  quick lesson.  The ladies got their socks whiter than any bottle of Clorox could have gotten them.  The breeze way was smelling fresh and clean after these three ladies got through doing their laundry.

 

Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.
Psalm 51:2

 

 

My name on my favorite drink

 

Mike and I were in the grocery store one day buying groceries when we came upon the coke bottles with names on them.  We looked for names of our staff the only one we found the first day was Carlos and it was Coke lite.  The Coke man was there working and was helping us look for more but none to be found.  A couple of days later we went back to the grocery store to pick up some more food and was in the line checking out when the Coke man came from the back of the store with a coke bottle with Pastor G's name on it.  I got so excited and could not wait to give it to Pastor G.  Of course it said Guerillmo not Pastor G.  As you can tell he was one happy boy this day!!!!  The small things in life that bring a smile.

 

I thank my God every time I remember you.
Philippians 1:31

Team pushing it in the heat

 

 

 

 

Coats Baptist worked diligently in the scorching heat.  They were not quiet as blessed to have three days of a breeze.  But the days God gave the breeze they gave HIM total praise and honor.  The team laid over their five day period over 1500 blocks.  They spent most of the first morning getting the scaffolding up and running.  This building is looking more like a dorm for North Americans.  Thank you so much Coats Baptist for accepting the calling to come to Honduras and work on the property we call, Mt Horeb.  We are grateful for each and every one of you,  Team leader, Laura, Danny and Katie, Jimmy and Anita, Susan, Wally, Jimmy and Julie.  They worked so well as a team, as one in Christ Jesus.  It was evident as you watched the walls go up.  They were also very flexible and what to do and where to apply their energies.  Praise God for all the worked completed this week.

 

4For just as we have many members in one body and all the members do not have the same function, 5so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. 6Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly .

Romans 12:4-5

 

 

 

Two families serving in the name of Jesus

 

Welcome back Danny and Katie to Honduras.  This is their second time back but there first time together.  We were excited and blessed to find out they were getting to come back and work side by side.  The first time they were suppose to come together Katie had an emergency surgery done and could not come.  Last year Katie came without Danny.  So God blessed them both to be together this year.   We were grateful for Danny and Katie and all their many gifts they brought to the table.  Mike is especially was grateful for Katie and her freshly baked chocolate chip cookies.   

 

Welcome back for their second year Jimmy and Anita.  They worked hard together in the name of Jesus.  Thank you Jimmy for your amazing job during devotion one evening, "How important are foundation."   Mike shared with Jimmy how the foundation of the security fence around the property was, how strong it was and then Jimmy elaborated on the mission house is the teams foundation.  It is where all the activities revolve around. But how this will be changing one day.  The fence on the property will become the teams foundation for many years to come. This foundation will allow so many people to learn more and more about the gospel of Jesus Christ.  For many years to come this foundation will spread not only over Honduras but to other countries as well as the United States. What the North Americans are doing is opening up the gospel to the country of Honduras as well as the Hondurans opening up the gospel to North Americans.

 

46 "Why are you so polite with me, always saying 'Yes, sir,' and 'That's right, sir,' but never doing a thing I tell you? 47 These words I speak to you are not mere additions to your life, homeowner improvements to your standard of living. They are foundation words, words to build a life on. 48 "If you work the words into your life, you are like a smart carpenter who dug deep and laid the foundation of his house on bedrock. When the river burst its banks and crashed against the house, nothing could shake it; it was built to last.   

Luke 6:46-48

Laura always willing to help

 

One of the workers had blisters on his feet to the point he could not wear his shoes.  Laura was so gracious to climb down off the scaffolding to bandage and apply ointment on this young man's foot.  We appreciate the help of our employee Digno as he assisted Laura in her endeavors of using what we had to help out a friend.  Thank you Laura for your nursing skills during this week.

 

Worship the LORD your God, and his blessing will be on your food and water. I will take away sickness from among you.  Exodus 23:25

Sunday Worship was Amazing

 

This team opted to work on the property so we went to visit a church in another community.  We contacted Pastor Pedro in La Ero Blanco.  It was excited about our visit to their church.  Team arrived and Pastor Pedro and Maida prepared the layout of the service.  We walked in and within five minutes the "bulletin" was complete.  The order of service was amazingly smooth and filled with the Holy Spirit throughout the entire morning.  The team during their commissioning service in North Carolina sang "How Great Thou Art" in Spanish.  So I encouraged them to do so here in Honduras.  They practiced each night in the mission house before singing on Sunday morning.

The congregation greeted the team as if they had known them for years.  It was a heartfelt morning.  After praising the Lord through music we led into testimonies.  The first testimony was Julie.  Julie is our first timer but not last to Honduras.  Julie agreed to share her testimony after we heard her devotional one evening.  Julie over came so many fears coming into Honduras.  Mike and I hear of folks fear of flying into Tegus but Ms. Julie's was different.   She denied God four times before accepting the call to come to Honduras and serve a "mighty God".  Our God is so big and Julie found out this week just how big our God really is.  So as she started sharing her testimony she had the full attention of the young people in the congregation.  Julie did not elaborate on the part of flying since our Honduran friends have never flown before.  Julie has many fears: heights, leaving her family behind and public speaking.  She claims she has only shared one other time in public and this was about one week prior to Honduras.  The opportunity came about two years ago to sign up for Honduras and Julie saw it in her church bulletin.  God had been tugging at her heart to go to Honduras.  She let that opportunity pass her by and two more before she came to Honduras.  She had done a bible study on Jonah where she felt like she was Jonah.  Julie was running from God and saying no to his calling to serve in Honduras.  On the fourth chance to sign up to go to Honduras, Julie finally took the plunge.  She shared on how she almost missed out on the sweetest blessing, coming to this beautiful country and to serve by the most amazing godly people.  She shared on much she had learned by working beside her brothers and sisters in Christ while here in Honduras.  Her many fears of heights, she was up on a scaffolding laying block with team leader Laura and she did an amazing job sharing her testimony.  Like Jonah she ran from God because of her many fears gripping her life but like Jonah God spit out all those fears and allowed Julie to overcome them with great confidence.  Julie got out of her box and allowed God to use her this week.

Wally shared a simple but profound word.  God built this church many years ago and today we are serving and worshiping HIM here today. 

Jimmy was saved for last as the "guest speaker".  Jimmy shared about God's word being a love letter to each of us.  God is doing mighty works here in Honduras. He sees God's love all around him as he served for his first time in Honduras. God's word shares we need to love our neighbors.  Our neighbors can be next door or they can be in another country.  How do we demonstrate HIS LOVE.  First of all by speaking HIS LOVE daily to others, a small act of  kindness, or simply by touching someone gently with a hug.  Our jobs as Christian is to show the love of Christ with who ever we come in contact with on a daily basis.  But if we really want to show God's love put those who are unlovable before us in front of us.  Those are the hardest to love but through God we can do this.  One day when we are called home and walk through those pearly gates and we do not see anyone we shared the gospel with, the love of Jesus Christ,  what a sad day this will be.  Go and share the love of Jesus with everyone we see today.  What a testimony for all of us.  Have you shared Jesus with someone today?  Do you know Jesus today as your personal Lord and Savior today?  If you are reading this today and you do not know this God who calms your fears, who builds His kingdom here on earth and who exhibits the most amazing love of all time I encourage you today, before it is too late, accept this free gift God offers, JESUS CHRIST.

After all the testimonies they saved "How Great Thou Art" for last.   What a beautiful way to end a time filled with the Holy Spirit.  The team encouraged the congregation to sing along with them as Katie sang the verses in Spanish and the team came in on the chorus.  Tears formed as this beautiful act of love was shared on this day at this time in the presence of our Lord and Savior.

 

I encourage you to read the book of Jonah and see how Julie overcame her fears

1 Corinthians 13 is our love letter from God

 

 

God is in control

 

On our way back to Tegus we realized how flexible this team truly was and is.  We got almost to Jose's home town, about forty minutes outside of Tegus, Choluteca side, and the Kia overheated.  Overheated so bad we could not continue to drive it.  So while the men were trying to fix it the ladies were coming up with a backup plan of how we were going to get the entire team and luggage in the bus.  God is good and it was done and we made it to our home in Zamorano.  We arrived to our home to "no power".  Once again we accepted what was given to us and moved forward.  The restaurant across the street did not have power either but had a generator so they could cook.  So we ate pizza and went back to our home for devotions.  As we were sitting in the dark with flashlights and candles burning God was in our presence.  God's words were shared by Susan and the team listened and then suddenly the power came on and all God's people said AMEN!!!!  What an eventful day and everyone had a great time through the entire experience.  Thank you Coats Baptist for showing flexibility today as we had opportunities beyond our control.  But as always God is in control.

 

Romans 8:28 - And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to [his] purpose.

Second Dedication on Mt Horeb

 

Each team member worked diligently to do their part on the North American dorms.  The blocks being laid this week will support the walls of a building they will one day be able to sleep in while serving in Honduras.  Thank you Jimmy, Wally, team leader, Laura, Julie,  Danny and Katie, Jimmy and Anita and Susan for accepting God's calling to come to Mt Horeb to serve.

The team leader, Laura, came forward with an amazing dedication.  I would like to quote her now on her profound words coming from her heart and being led by the Holy Spirit.

"We have answered a call from God to serve the people of Honduras.  Mike and Ginger, our missionary couple from North Carolina have prayed to God asking HIM for guidance in a new endeavor or vision. This vision is to provide a retreat for Christians in your country to come and spend time up here on this mountain with God.  We are very joyful to assist in this vision.  I want to read a couple of verses from 1 Thessalonians 2:8, Paul is writing to the Thessalonians saying, 'We cared so much for you that we were pleased to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because  you had become so dear to us.'

Each of us are here to share our faith in Jesus Christ by our words, actions and deeds.  And all who follow will have the same motivation.  By building this place, dorms, our hope is that others will come to know Jesus and follow HIM.  They will accept HIS death on the cross as an atonement  of their sins.  By doing this, trusting Jesus and being saved and having everlasting life. 

God is real my friends.  Jesus became man and led a perfect life.  HIS pure sacrifice on the cross was the only way that we as imperfect sinners can be saved.  Thank you JESUS!!!!

Paul further writes in 1 Thessalonians 2:11-13 'As  you know, like a father with his own children, we encouraged, comforted and implored each one of you to walk worthy of God, who calls you into HIS own kingdom and glory.'

Our dear friends, Pastor Carlos, Manuel, Rudy, Digno, Danny, Mariel, Ever, and Wilmer you are the light in this community.  With this building use it for the Glory of God.  Bring your friends, family and strangers here to be strengthened and renewed.  Thank you for your wonderful work and for your strong young bodies.  Without your help, we never would have progressed as far as we did.

Thank you Pastor G, Orfilio, Jose and Maida for guiding us properly so we did not mess up much! Thank you for your faithfulness to the North Carolina Baptist Men's mission work.  Truly the Lord is watching over you and you will receive your rewards in Heaven.  We were truly blessed to share this week with you."

At this time we placed hands on the North American dorms and prayed over God's work here on Mt. Horeb.  After the prayer the team shared a song "Pass It On".  Pastor G and Pastor Carlos shared some words as we closed.

. 

 

Faith Builders

 

As you read earlier,  Julie overcame many fears while accepting the call to serve in Honduras.  Julie taught all of us so much this week.  Going out on faith in God will allow you and me to be so much more than we truly are.  It allows God to use us where we thought we would never go.  Be like Julie and let

God pull you out of your comfort zone and be stretched beyond anything you could truly imagine for your life.  Our God is so much bigger than we ever allow HIM to be.  Today if  you are saying as I have said so many times you cannot do something like go on a mission trip to Honduras or even going to live in Honduras then you are putting God in a box.  Take the plunge as Julie did, let God spit out your fears as He did with Jonah, let God use you today as HE has never used you before.  Enjoy the beauty of walking in HIS path and being used by God to do mighty works.  If we never go out on faith we will never experience what God can truly do in our lives. 

 Five years ago I finally said yes to God's calling to serve HIM full time in Honduras.  It took several months  before I said yes to this opportunity which has forever changed my life.  Going out on faith, trusting God with your life is the most beautiful journey you will ever embark upon.  Your calling may not be to come to Honduras on a 8 day mission trip or live permanently there but what is God calling you to do today?  Where is God leading you today?  Allow God to strengthen your faith by listening to HIM and what awesome plans HE has for your life. 

God will never leave us or forsake us.

 

"We live by faith, not by sight."

2 Corinthians 5:7

 

The Church of Covenant Park Maryland

 

As Covenant Church crest the top of the hill to come over to the property they were in awe of the progress from almost one year ago.  They worked with the Hondurans last August for a "work day". They saw the palm tree former team member Brad had planted last year.  How big it was becoming.  We all gathered on the front porch of the first building built last September to introduce or I should say reunite some old friends together.  We want to welcome Bevin and Mateo who are our first timers this year.  Welcome back Ryan and wife Elie, Vickie, Derek,  and Dan.  We gathered for Mike to explain to our Honduran brothers and sisters this will be one of three teams working out here in the next couple months.  They are here to start the North American Dorms.  This is the first team to have spent one whole week working on the property. 

 

14 As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. 15 But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; 16 for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."   

I Peter 1:14-16

The team came to lay block

 

The Hondurans went to work on the dirt pile near the foundation.  They were shoveling dirt from the outside to the inside of the foundation.  The North American team was standing on the porch watching from afar.  One team member said, "Let's go help them shovel."  The whole team took off found shovels and joined their brothers in shoveling.  There was only 300 blocks the first day so the team immediately took on the role of flexibility.  They did what needed to be done to help out the Hondurans.  Team leader, Ryan shared earlier with me, " We are here to serve however God sees fit.  We are here to help wherever we are needed."

 

He replied, "Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
Matthew 17:20

 

The team had faith and moved that pile of dirt.

Preparing for the first block

 

The team pulled together after moving dirt to moving block inside of the foundation.  The Hondurans and Derek mixed the mescal.  After about two hours the team is ready to lay the first block.

 

This is the first time we had the Hondurans pray over the first block.  Mike wanted the team to place their hands on the first block as the Hondurans placed their hands on the North Americans. Pastor Carlos began to pray for the future of this ministry.  We are so blessed with awesome godly men working on the property.

 

14 "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.

Matthew 5:14-16   

Covenant Church Working for the Lord

 

Covenant Church came down ready to do whatever needed to be done.  They were able to lay out 2,000 blocks in their five days on t Mt Horeb. Each person gave it their all.  They were blessed to have cool weather three of the five days.  Cool weather meaning a nice breeze continuous blew while working. 

During their week each one had some amazing God moments:

Mateo shared how God is a global God.  God is everywhere.  He is always with us.  Mateo enjoyed Mike's tour of the property.  Amazing what all God is doing on Mt. Horeb.

Vickie shared how we could learn from the Hondurans on how to exhibit their compassion of serving the Lord. Vickie had problems with her foot before coming and once arrived in Honduras pain subsided.  We have a big God.

Bevin shoveled all day one day with Danny.  Bevin built a relationship with a shovel. Bevin enjoyed the children during Sunday School.

Derek shared how one of the workers remembered him from the medical clinic he served on in February of this year. Tio hugs are the best hugs ever.

Ryan shared how he was blessed to see a friend from last year and was able to pray with him with the help of his wife, Elie. Ryan also help lead Danny to the Lord and shared the gospel with Alexis as well.  Pray Alexis comes to accept Jesus Christ.

Dan shared how Sunday was his God moment.  The entire day of worship, visiting Fernando and the much needed rain storm God provided.  The Hondurans have been without rain for over one month.  This is their rainy season. Dan was grateful for the rain.

Elie was in awe of the progress of Mt Horeb since last August.  Elie along with Pastor G and Ryan led Danny to the Lord.

 

Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.
Psalm 145:3

Dan and Derek Read the Manual

 

We are having quiet a few power outages down here.  One evening the team was playing cards in the dining hall and the power goes out.  Everyone says what do we do.  It was pitch dark.  But we heard two of our friends get up and leave.  Dan and Derek came back with their flashlights ready for the power outage.  I asked who else had flashlights.  Only Dan and Derek came prepared for what might happen.  They must of read the manual. 

 

Which was the true Light that enlightens every man who comes into the world.

John 1:9

 

 

 

 

 

The week started out with Elie and Ryan cooking breakfast.  But as day two arrived Vickie joined the kitchen crew for cooking and cleaning. Vickie and Elie dismissed Ryan of his kitchen duty.  Elie claims she cannot cook and Vickie was a hidden secret.  Vickie finally admitted she was a cook at a camp she worked at for years.  Well Elie can really flip some pancakes, and she said she could not cook. 

The clean up crew had way too much fun when our man Mateo was helping the girls.  They truly enjoyed their job duties of the kitchen.  Thanks to all three of you for all you did for the team this week.  It was all yummy!!!!

 

 

¹⁰ As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace.

I Peter 4:10



Worship and Sunday School in Los Delicias

 

The local church was not available for worship on Sunday.  Their services are on Saturday nights.  We went to worship at God's new church family in Los Delicias.  As always the team was welcomed with open arms from Pastor Amado, his wife, Anna, and their church family.  There were many testimonies this day and Mike preached a sermon.

Bevin shared out of Micah 6:8 not about sacrifice but how we live our lives for Jesus.  This is why I am here Bevin shared to live a life God has called me to do.

Ryan shared out of Ephesians 5:8 we do not need to be of the world but of God.  God placed is wife Elie in his life and Ryan was able to accept Christ and let go of the world and live his life for Christ.

Mike preached out of John 4:34 where the food of the Spirit is to do HIS will.  We need to read God's word daily and see a personal relationship with Jesus through the Holy Spirit.  We could always learn from the children.  They are over under the mango trees now hearing a bible story and are soaking it up like a sponge.  We need to be like the children.  We need to be hungry for God's word and to follow what He has called each of to do, live for HIM.

We were blessed with some Honduran sisters sharing their testimonies as well.  This was joyous day in the house of the Lord.

 

8 He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.   

Micah 6:8

 

15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.   

Colossians 3:15-16

 

For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light
Ephesians 5:8

 

34 "My food," said Jesus, "is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.   

John 4:34

 

 

 

While others were sharing testimonies Vickie, Elie, Bevin and Mateo did Sunday School with the children under the mango trees.  Vickie shared the story of Jesus Calming the Storm.  The children enjoyed singing songs and coloring as well.  They had one looker from afar watching as they all learned more about Jesus.

 

Mark 4:35-41

 

Enjoying the culture

 

The ladies of the team, Vickie and Elie, enjoyed helping Maida and Marias cook tortillas and chismo for the fish fry.  The team enjoyed a time of celebration by sharing a fish plate

Maida our blessing

 

I want to say thank you to Maida who is more than a translator.  She wears many hats in this ministry and does it always with a smile.  Thank you Maida for your service to North Carolina Baptist Men in Honduras.

 

"I thank my God every time I remember you."

Philippians 1:3

Danny Received Christ

 

The week started with the discussion of baseball.  One of the Hondurans, Danny, was asking questions about the sport baseball.  Danny worked mixing mescal with Derek most of the week but also laid blocks some with Ryan and the other team members.  As the week progressed they built a relationship with Danny around the sport of baseball.  Ryan asked Danny the most important question of his life time.  Did Danny have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  Was Jesus His Lord and Savior?  Had he accepted Jesus Christ into his life?  Danny's answer was no and I am not ready.  Ryan shared he would pray for him as this is the most important decision of his life.  You are not promised tomorrow.  You may leave here today and die and where will you go.  Danny replied, "To Hell."  Ryan question him and ask is this what you truly want to live eternity in Hell.  Danny still said I am not ready.

So the week goes by and the entire team is sharing and praying for Danny to receive Christ.  The night before the dedication of their trip Ryan comes in with a huge stick.  He asked Mike could he borrow a machete.  The rest of us are inside playing cards while Ryan is out in the courtyard wildling away at this huge stick to form it into a baseball bat.  Danny really likes baseball Ryan says and I want to give him a baseball bat.  Ryan was encouraged to write something on the bat and he wrote Matthew 7:7  "Ask and you shall receive."  What a perfect gift for someone who is not ready to receive Jesus Christ.  The last morning Ryan, Pastor G, Pastor C and Elie asked Danny one more time is he ready to receive Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.  Tears were forming in his eyes as they rolled down his cheeks.  Tears Danny could not stop and he said I want Jesus as my Lord and Savior.  Mike and I arrived for the dedication to a joyous group of folks, "Danny accepted Christ."  All God's people said AMEN!!!!!  The angels in heaven were dancing and singing on this morning as we now have one more brother in Christ.  I walked up to Danny and said in Spanish, "Buenos Dias, mi hermano."  Danny with a huge smile returned the reply with a huge hug.  This is why the North Americans come to Honduras to share the gospel of Jesus Christ whether be through laying blocks, medicines or even a baseball bat. 

 

Words cannot describe what happened after the dedication.  You would of had to been there to receive the blessings from the first official baseball game on Mt Horeb.  The laughter which brought tears to many eyes was heard from miles around.  Both North Americans and Hondurans laughed from the bottoms of their stomachs.  Digno shared how his stomach was hurting from all the laughter.  Mike explained the basic rules of baseball to the Hondurans and the rest was just plan and simple entertainment.  Rest to sure there will be many more baseball games on Mt. Horeb in the future.  We knew there would be a futbol field and basketball court, but for sure there will be a baseball diamond.  Thank you one and all for making this teams last minutes on Mt. Horeb one to remember for many years to come.

 

"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.
Matthew 7:7

 

 

Words of Gratitude

 

As the week comes to an end this team of seven laid out 2, 000 blocks and led one man to Christ. Also shared the gospel with another worker on the property who we are all praying for to receive Jesus as his Lord and Savior. They started out shoveling dirt into the foundation, mixing mescal, moving the 2,000 blocks inside of the foundation for easy access to laying them out where they needed to go.  At the end of the week we gathered together on the foundation of the dorm to give God all the praise and honor for each and every block which was laid out in His honor. 

Bevin led the dedication by reading from Isaiah 2:2-3.  He shared what a privilege it was to serve beside each and every one of these men and women in the name of Jesus.  Ryan said thank you for allowing them to work on the property and to work beside such amazing hard workers who never once complained.  We can learn so much from each of you.  Your work ethics are phenomenal.  Your generosity of caring for us to make sure we did not get too hot each day was deeply appreciated.  Thank you for allowing us this privilege.

Pastor C and Pastor G also shared words of gratitude to the North Americans for giving of their time away from home, family and jobs to come work in Honduras.  We know it is much hotter here than in the states yet you work diligently beside us and never gave up.  Thank you for your example you set for the Hondurans. 

So I suppose this week we all learned something from each other.  This is how big our God is.  Like Mateo said earlier in the week our God is global.  HE is everywhere.  We all placed our hands on the one of the walls as Pastor Carlos closed the week in prayer.

 

2 And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the LORD'S house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it. 3 And many people shall go and say , Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. 

Isaiah 2:2-3         

 

Ryan and Elie

 

Once again we enjoyed our team leader Ryan and his lovely bride, Elie coming back to Honduras to lead this team.  They worked side by side some of the time but adventure out to get to know the rest of their team members and Hondurans.  Elie was our other translator when needed and she loved to share Jesus with the Honduran people.  Ryan and Elie did more than lay blocks they prayed and shared the gospel with many folks this past week.  They definitely have the gift of evangelism.  It is a natural for each of them.  They are both quiet gentle spirits who love the Lord.  Thank you both for all you did this week to show the love of Jesus to others. Thank you Ryan for leading your team through words of encouragement from God's word nightly.  How you lifted your team members us each and every day.  You two are an awesome team. I pray God continues to bless your journey with HIM.  We love you!!!!!

 

"As for me and my house we will serve the Lord."

Joshua 24:15

 

Oakdale Baptist Church Builds Pedro and family a home

 

One day Mike and I were going through the solicitations for homes for the people here in Honduras.  We came across a solicitation which was two years old and had written at the bottom:  dangerous area.  Mike and I decided to go there anyway and meet the family and see if this was something the North Americans could do.  We met Pastor C of the church of the community on the road.  He had road his bicycle about four miles to meet us to take us to Pedro's home.  We gathered Pastor C and his bicycle and traveled maybe a mile to where the home was located.  We arrived meeting Pedro's lovely wife, Suyapa and their two daughters, Mada and Sophie.  They did not know we were coming this day to announce they were receiving a home.  Because once we arrived we knew this precious family was getting a home.  Pastor C shared during our visit how the night before he had prayed for a home for this family.  Pastor C had been praying for two years for this family a home.  Never stop praying, for God will answer our prayers in His timing.  Pedro was working at the time at a bread company.  A man on a bicycle came riding down the path towards Suyapa's home.  Mada went running to the fence out into the dirt path to greet her Daddy.  This was the most precious sight I had seen in a while.  I knew even more then this family was getting a home.  This family was a family unit of love for one another.  Pedro loves his two daughters and lovely wife Suyapa deeply.  It was obvious in the way his daughters wanted to be near him.  This was a special day in the life of this ministry for me.  Thank you God for leading Mike and I to this family and thank you for sending Oakdale Baptist Church of Rocky Mount, North Carolina to fulfill a dream come true for such a special family.  All God's people said AMEN!!!!!

 

"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me."

John 10:27

God's blessings over the first block

 

As the morning progressed the team found where God wanted them to be.  Pastor G was working diligently on the preparation of the first block.  Many activities have to take place before the first block.  This is a time for the team to be flexible waiting for the actual block laying to begin.  They work where needed to help get to this point of the morning.  Pastor G says, "Primero bloque por favor"  The team gathers around one of the cornerstones of the home preparing to pray over the first block.  We start every project with pray and we close out the project in prayer over the home.  Glen prayed blessings over Pedro and Suyapa's home as Maida, our translator, shared the prayer in Spanish for the family and people who were watching from the dirt path.  We never know what person may hear God's word as we work on each and every project.  Some may hear God's word for the first time even though there is a local church in the community.  One person may hear God speak to them through this prayer of dedication or throughout the week as we are the hands and feet of Jesus hear in Honduras.  The people stand and watch in amazement as the North Americans start building a home for a family they had never met until this day.  I always wondered what the outsiders looking in may wonder.

 

"This is the confidence we have in approaching God; that if we ask for anything according to His will, He hears us."

1 John 5:14

Thomas enough said

 

Our friend Thomas comes back each year to support his lovely wife and team leader, Kaye.  Thomas brings much to the table when he comes.  Each year he brings several pewter crosses and challenges his team members to find homes for them.  Thomas and Kaye placed one of the crosses  in one of the blocks on the home.  What a beautiful reminder of why we are here.  This cross represents  Lord and Savior Jesus  Christ who died for us  many years ago.  This is why we come to Honduras to share with others the beauty of Christ's love for each of us.  Thomas took the time to help the new team members lay the blocks.  Thomas cut the blocks for the team as well.  Most of all Thomas came to share his love for Jesus Christ and what Jesus truly means to him.  We love you Thomas!!!

When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

John 19:30

 

Pedro's 800 blocks become a home

 

As the days passed the 800 blocks became a home. The days were hot and the team endured each day because our Lord gave them their strength.  They worked side by side with the Hondurans daily to complete the job God called each of them to do.  This team was ordained by God long before they knew they would be here.  This is beautiful to know how God works in all situations.  Each team has five days to get the job done.  But there is more than laying blocks in those five days.  The team watched as Pedro took extra pains in perfecting each and every joint on his new home.  Pedro took pride in his gift from God.  He was grateful for what he was receiving.  The team observed what an amazing father, Pedro was to his two girls.  He fed Sophia her lunch one day and then gently placed her in the hammock for her afternoon nap.  Same life as us just a different language.  While Pedro worked on the home, Suyapa worked in her kitchen preparing lunch for the Honduran workers.  On the last day Pedro and Suyapa sacrificed one of their own chickens and made a big pot of chicken soup for their gratitude to the team and a means of celebrating their new home.  We always come to bless the Hondurans and we leave more blessed than when we came.  God is truly blessing the North Carolina Baptist Men's ministry in Honduras.  We see more North Americans lives change once they come to live with the Hondurans for eight days.  The Hondurans teach us so much about what it means to truly sacrifice and serve God.

 

The Widow's Mite

"As Jesus looked up, he saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury.  He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins.  Truly I tell you, he said, 'This poor widow has put in more than all the others.  All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth, but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.'"

Pedro and Suyapa Receive Their Home

 

Team leader Kaye did a beautiful job presenting the family with a bible and sharing from God's word how this home is a beacon for the community.  How others will see this as a Christian home where they can share with others the love of Jesus Christ.  Thomas presented the family with the key to their home through tears of joy.  The family gathered around the home to place their hands on the home to make this project complete.  The team lifted up this week in prayer.  Now in this dangerous little village this family will be safe at night.  They will be able to lock their door at night and sleep feeling secure in the arms of God.  Thank you God for sending Oakdale Baptist Church here at this place and time and for their total obedience to YOU for allowing this week to happen.

 

"Unless the Lord builds the house,

the builders labor in vain."

Psalm 127:1

Vacation Bible School and Sunday School/ Worship

 

Kaye provided an opportunity for the children to make a rainbow.  They lined up and each one got to put their fingerprint on a white piece of cardstock paper.  There was around sixty children there to participate in the Vacation Bible School.  Each team member shared how impressed they were with the behavior of each child.  They waited patiently in line as their friends were putting their fingerprint on the paper.  The team enjoyed hearing the children singing Jesus loves me in Spanish and English. Kaye and  Robert shared in the responsibilities of leadership during VBS.  Each team member rotated out each day to help out, thank you goes to Dan, May, Tim, Taylor, Sabrina, Robert, Thomas, Kaye, Wayne, Andy, Glen, Sierra and Karen for rotating turns and enjoying the true joys of each and every child there.  It is nice when each team member can help with construction and Vacation Bible School.  The children are such a pleasure to teach God's word to.  They are so attentive to every word you share.  Once again job well done, amigos.

 

Sunday morning arrived and Kaye was able to present Pastor C with the rainbow the children did during Vacation Bible School.  As Glen preached being translated by Freddy, Kaye took the rest of the team outside and had Sunday School.  Thank you Maida for translating Sunday School. 

Glen shared from the books of John 19:28-30, Romans 6:23 and Luke 23:39-43.  Jesus as I shared earlier in the blog died on the cross for all our sins.  He suffered a brutal death for you and me.  If you are reading this today and do not have Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior tomorrow is too late.  I pray you will receive the greatest gift of all, JESUS CHRIST.  Life is nothing without Jesus.  Jesus is the only reason we are here and how much of our day to we give HIM glory.  Jesus is the only way into Heaven, eternal life.  Do not wait until tomorrow. Tomorrow may be too late.

 

    " After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished , that the scripture might be fulfilled , saith , I thirst. Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar: and they filled a spunge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop, and put it to his mouth.  When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished : and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost."  

John 19:28-30 

 

"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."

Romans 6:23

 

    " And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying , If thou be Christ, save thyself and us. But the other answering rebuked him, saying , Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?  And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds : but this man hath done nothing amiss.  And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.  And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise."

Luke 23:39-43